Peru SAmerica 2012

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Rosetour Travel Peru LATIN AMERICA,

THE GALĂ PAGOS

wandering through Machu Picchu before the crowds arrived, we felt like the explorers who first set eyes upon the abandoned citadel.

2012

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we were as awed by the beauty of Costa Rica’s natural treasures as with our naturalist’s sixth sense in spotting them from afar.

we saw the finest example of art, skill and tradition during our private visit to a Panama hat workshop in Ecuador.

our expert guide had hiked around Perito Moreno Glacier for 10 years as a guide — and 20 more as a local.

Peru, the Galápagos, Ecuador & Bolivia PERU & MACHU PICCHU

From the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu and the soaring peaks of the Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest and Lima’s Spanish colonial mansions, Peru beckons with the allure of the ancient and mysterious. As the first international tour operator to open a network of offices in South America — including in Cusco and Lima — our team of handpicked local experts can show you Peru’s true spirit and most significant sites like no one else. With us, you discover Machu Picchu and Cusco alongside the country’s finest guides. Explore this legendary pre-Columbian fortress with its former resident archaeologist and venture deeper into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Witness

indigenous rituals and meet Andean artisans to gain an understanding of Peru’s deep cultural roots. On select our journeys, you may even travel from the Incan citadel aboard the elegant Hiram Bingham train, crisscrossing the spectacular Andean scenery. Beyond Machu Picchu, Peru offers an incredible array of destinations. Experience Lima’s colonial grandeur as you tour historic cathedrals and privately dine in a centuries-old mansion. Venture into the Amazon rainforest on board MV ‘Aria’ or MV ‘Aqua,’ the finest vessels sailing Peru’s Amazon River. Delve into the less-frequented southern region and discover the breathtaking beauty of Colca Canyon, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

ECUADOR & THE GALÁPAGOS

Located just 600 miles west of Ecuador’s mainland, the Galápagos Islands are a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Nature lovers get a firsthand look at the archipelago’s remarkable ecosystems and wildlife with our itineraries, carefully crafted by our international staff and local experts in our Quito office. With us, fly to the spellbinding islands and then enjoy the flexibility of exploring the Galápagos by boat or with a land-based itinerary. Whichever you choose, close encounters await as you walk amid sunbathing sea lion, century-old tortoise and blue-footed booby. Back on the mainland, visit Ecuador for the most authentic Andean experience. Ecuador is one of

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Latin America’s best-kept secrets, a tiny country packed with natural splendors, from dense jungles to snow-dusted peaks to brooding volcanoes. Topping it all off is a captivating blend of colonial cities and indigenous cultures. The capital, Quito, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a visit reveals a romantic city of cobbled streets, graceful mansions and stately cathedrals. BOLIVIA Perhaps one of South America’s most underrated destinations, Bolivia is a true diamond in the rough. From the surreal landscapes of the Uyuni Salt Flat to the genteel colonial architecture of La Paz, Bolivia is the perfect independent, tailormade destination for the intrepid globetrotter.

HIGHLIGHTS Peru: Discover Machu Picchu from the inside out in the company off local guides The GalĂĄpagos: Explore these magical islands on twice-daily excursions limited to 12 guests for more interaction with your guide Ecuador: Savor local life during a private lunch hosted by the owners of Hacienda La CompaĂąia, a hacienda built in the 17th century Bolivia: Learn methods of salt extraction and visit wildlife-rich Isla Pescado, located in the middle off a salt fflat

PERU & MACHU PICCHU TIME DIFFERENCE: Same as EST VISAS: No visa required for U.S. passport holders. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: No vaccinations required

when you travel directly from North America. Yellow fever vaccination is only required for travel to Manu and the most remote jungle areas in Peru.

BOLIVIA TIME DIFFERENCE: EST plus 1 hour VISAS: Visa required for U.S. passport holders. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: Yellow fever vaccinations are required when travelling to high-risk areas (east of the Andes Mountains). La Paz, Sucre and Santa Cruz are not at risk. Antimalarial drugs are recommended for travel to areas below altitudes of 8,202 feet.

ECUADOR & THE GALĂ PAGOS TIME DIFFERENCE: Quito is the same as EST. The

GalĂĄpagos Islands are the same as CST. VISAS: No visa required for U.S. passport holders. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: No vaccinations required

when you travel directly from North America. Health and visa requirements are subject to change.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

LUXURY SERIES

Machu Picchu & Beyond A Connoisseurs Journey Through Peru Two cultures mingle in the architecture of Santo Domingo Temple

9 Days

Experience a blend of adventure and luxury on a Connoisseurs journey through Peru’s past and present. Explore majestic colonial architecture in Lima and Cusco. Then travel to Machu Picchu, redefining the concept of up-close exploration by lodging on the citadel’s grounds, at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge. Discover Andean culture when you meet a master weaver or wander a local market.

DAY 1:

USA or Canada/Lima, Peru

Arrive in Lima this evening and transfer to your hotel. DAY 2:

Lima

Breakfast at your hotel. Today we have a complete visit to this modern and Colonial city. Our visit begins at an ancient Pre Inca Pyramid Huaca Pucllana. Later we proceed to the Colonial Lima, with many historic buildings that survive as a magnificient World Heritage Monument. Later we will see the modern city that is located at the Pacific Ocean front. Return to our hotel. DAY 3:

Lima/Cusco/Sacred Valley

After breakfast, fly to Cusco — located at over 11,000 feet above sea level — and L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

spend the morning acclimatizing to the altitude. Following lunch, visit the massive fortress of Ollantaytambo, a formidable stone structure of massive terraces that ascend the mountain slopes. DAY 4:

Sacred Valley

Start your exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas — the vast valley below Machu Picchu and an area where a traditional lifestyle continues to this day — by visiting the charming town of Chinchero. Delve deeper into local

Inca culture, visiting the many different small towns in this Valley, consider as Sacred by the ancient Incas, due to its fertile soil, its snow caped mountains and the river that cross it.

This three elements were considered Sacred by the Incas as they provided all the food consume in Cusco We will have a bufett lunch at a country side local restaurant and enjoy some of the local delicacies. Return to our hotel. DAY 5:

Enhance Your Journey with an Extension

AMAZON RIVER CRUISE (4, 5 or 8 days) Explore the wildlife-rich rainforest on board luxe MV ‘Aqua,’ disembarking to meet local communities.

Sacred Valley/Machu Picchu

Journey to Machu Picchu by train, passing through stunning Peruvian countryside along the way. Arrive with plenty of time

to enjoy the beautiful sorroundings of Aguas Calientes, the town located next to the Inca citadel. The location, at the slopes of the Amazon, is very different than the mountanious Cusco. Here, among orchids, birds, and abundant vegetation, we find ourselves sorrounded by an impressive landscape. Overnight at this location, many options of hotels from basic to ultra luxury. DAY 6:

PARACAS (3 days) Discover Peru’s desert coastline and its wildlife, and windsurf the PaciďŹ c for a taste of the coastal life.

Machu Picchu/Cusco

Breakfast at our hotel. And then early in the morning, our journey begins in a transportation to the summit to begin exploring the breathtaking Incan city. Overlooking the raging Urubamba River and discovered in a hidden tangle of trees atop the mountain, Machu Picchu forever holds the secret of its passing — its Incan inhabitants left no written records of its purpose or its flawless construction. After a tour of the ancient ruins with your guide, there is time to explore on your own. In the evening, sleep in the shadows of the great mountain citadel when you overnight next to Machu Picchu. DAY 7:

Cusco

Discover Cusco on a city tour that includes the Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas and the Santo Domingo Temple, a Dominican church built on the foundations of the Koricancha (Place of Gold), the Incas’ principal religious building. Later, explore the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, a testimony to Incan architectural skill. Compiled of massive stones, the walls were cut and placed together with incredible precision and without a single drop of mortar to hold them in place. Continue to Awanakancha, a center where South American camelids are bred. Learn about the renowned fibers created from their coats, as well as the ancient weaving techniques still used today. This evening at your hotel, enjoy cocktails, a farewell dinner and a presentation by a regional expert in ancient Andean music. DAY 8:

Cusco/Lima

Return to Lima, for an evening at leisure. DAY 9:

The ruins of Sacsayhuaman feature walls built entirely without mortar

Lima/USA or Canada

Board your homebound flight. NOTE: This program contains some active elements

OVERVIEW: › 0 [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ C`dX# :ljZf# J XZi\[ M Xcc\p Xe[ D XZ_l G `ZZ_l ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › D \\k Xe \og\ik 8e[\Xe n\Xm\i n_f [\dfejkiXk\j techniques that date back to pre-Columbian times › J c\\g `e k_\ j_X[fnj f] D XZ_l G `ZZ_l n_\e pfl cf[^\ `e the only hotel located right next to the legendary ruins › ;`jZfm\i D XZ_l G `ZZ_l ]ifd k_\ `ej`[\ flk `e k_\ company of its former resident archaeologist › 8]k\i \ogcfi`e^ D XZ_l G `ZZ_l# i\klie kf :ljZf fe YfXi[ the Orient-Express Hiram Bingham train, savoring a gourmet dinner › 8YjfiY G \ilÊj i`Z_ dlj`ZXc kiX[`k`fej [li`e^ X gi`mXk\ performance by an expert on Andean music

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

The Galápagos The natural history of these islands is eminently curious, and well deserves attention. Most of the organic productions are aboriginal creations, found nowhere else … the archipelago is a little world within itself. — Charles Darwin, The Voyage of the Beagle (1839)

Two blue-footed booby basking in the sun

The Galápagos Islands are one of the world’s most remarkable destinations: an open-air wildlife museum that stirs the explorer within everyone. The archipelago is home to an astonishing variety of endemic species — enough to inspire a theory that would change the world — and proves an irresistible destination for adventurers and naturelovers to this day. Every journey to this world where nature reigns supreme features: The best guides. Local presence means we have access to the region’s most experienced naturalists, who make your journey unforgettable.

A sunset illuminates the archipelago

Smaller group sizes. In contrast to other travel companies, we cap daily excursions to Fewer passengers per guide, meaning more personalized attention and better opportunities to learn and explore. Agility and flexibility. Eco-friendly MV ‘Eclipse’ is small enough to nimbly navigate Galápagos waters. Daily excursions are conducted in sturdy pangas (rubber rafts), which take you right to shore for up close encounters. Inventive itineraries. In addition to Galápagos classics, discover new sites in 2012, including Albemarle Point (few other travel companies are allowed here), and destinations not usually visited, such as Black Turtle Cove, Espinoza Point and the pristine western region of the archipelago. L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

Exploring by pangas

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CHOOSE THE BEST ITINERARY FOR YOU Blessed with temperate weather year-round, any time is the perfect time to visit the Galåpagos. Yet we take perfection to a new level by offering a selection of two seven-day routes, in order to maximize sightseeing and interactions based on wildlife behaviors, and minimize your journey’s effect on the local ecology. These exciting routes — on a variety of itineraries — are timed to ensure you see the very best of the islands. ESPAÑOLA ROUTE Highlights along this route include quintessential islands such as North Seymour, Floreana and Espaùola. Learn about the infamous history of Floreana and the mystery of what became of its early settlers. Explore Gardner Bay on Espaùola: its stunning white-sand beach is home to one of the most important colonies of sea lions in the Galåpagos and serves as a nesting site for sea turtles. Discover other delightful and lesser-known nooks, including Santa Fe, one of the most beautiful coves in the Galåpagos, where playful sea lion usually keep pace with swimmers and snorkelers. Punta Pitt is the only site in the archipelago where you can find all three species of boobies and both species of frigates. Make your way through the mangroves of Elizabeth Bay — a fragile site not usually visited by other travel companies — that provide refuge for sea turtle, ray, penguin and heron. L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L à PA G O S

GENOVESA ROUTE

Must-sees along this route include the delicate ecosystem of Black Turtle Cove, a maze of tranquil sea-water inlets surrounded by mangroves that are a nursery for sea turtle, shark and sea birds. Visit the pristine western region of Isabela and Fernandina islands, and a new site that few tours are allowed to visit: Albemarle Point, home to the largest marine iguana in the Galåpagos. Remote Genovesa Island — closed to ships for many years and now reopened — is home to millions of birds, including red-footed booby, frigate, swallow-tailed gull and endemic owl. Explore classics as well, hiking through volcanic formations to Pinnacle Rock or stopping at Puerto Egas to witness the pools filled with sea urchin and starfish.

A DAY IN THE GALÁPAGOS

MEET THE NATIVES

The highlight of an ‘Eclipse’ cruise is the twice-daily excursions, in which you join a small group (no more than 12 guests, with one naturalist guide per group) on board a panga, a sturdy inflatable raft that ferries you from ship to shore. On arrival, your group’s naturalist guide takes over, pointing out each island’s unique species and geological wonders. Each guide brings his or her own perspective, and your cruise affords you the chance to interact with all of them.

Beginning with the finches that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution, wildlife has set the Galápagos apart from every other adventure destination. Below are a few of the creatures you will get to know on your visit.

No guidebook can prepare you for the experience of walking among the islands’ wildlife, discovering how they have adapted and photographing them from a few feet away. Every day, you enjoy an excursion in the morning and in the afternoon, which may include activities such as exploring on foot, kayaking, snorkeling with equipment provided by the crew or cruising the islands’ hidden nooks by panga. Our expertise and intimate knowledge of the islands means plenty of private landings on beaches and coves no other tour operators visit.

BLUE-FOOTED BOOBY

GALÁPAGOS PENGUIN

This striking bird spends its days scanning the seas for food, returning to land to nest and to carry out the foot-stamping mating displays that make it a favorite of Galápagos visitors.

Both the rarest and the most northerly penguin species, this surprising island denizen arrived at the Galápagos by following the chilly Humboldt Current from Antarctica.

The fun does not end when you return from your excursion. Gather on deck for an al fresco snack and whale watching. At night, clear skies make for spectacular stargazing alongside expert guides (weather permitting). Your on-board naturalists offer a nightly presentation about the island’s history, geography or wildlife. SEA LION

MARINE IGUANA

The social sea lion hardly bats an eye at human visitors. When not congregating on the beach, sea lion are swift, powerful swimmers, navigating pounding surf with ease as they search for sardine, their main food.

Called “imps of darkness” by an unimpressed Charles Darwin, the marine iguana is in fact superbly adapted to life in the water, with a fin-like tail and teeth designed to scrape algae from rocks.

GIANT TORTOISE

SALLY LIGHTFOOT CRAB

Meeting the native species

Hiking on an island

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

Overhunting and habitat loss combined to drive these placid, stately reptiles to the brink of extinction. Happily, conservation efforts are proving successful and many subspecies’ populations are on the increase.

This brilliant-hued crab is perhaps the islands’ most photogenic species. It occupies the rocky coasts feeding on algae, its strong legs keeping it firmly rooted against the crashing waves.

our intimate cruise to the Galápagos redefined our concept of “close encounters.”

Galápagos on Board MV ‘Eclipse’

The nimble MV ‘Eclipse’ anchored in Galápagos waters

At the heart of your Galápagos experience is the adventure cruise ship MV ‘Eclipse.’ On board, travel from island to island and discover the many wonders of this magical destination, returning each afternoon for leisurely lunches and in the evening to the comforts of your spacious cabin. A VESSEL BUILT FOR ADVENTURE ‘Eclipse’ combines the amenities of a first-class yacht with the skilled personnel and sound ecological practices of an expedition vessel. At 210 feet long, she carries just 48 guests in 26 spacious cabins. That means more room to stretch out, with several areas dedicated for lounging and socializing. In addition, a more intimate group size means better service, with 31 crew members, four naturalist guides and an a Tour Director on hand to accommodate your every need and answer any question. Dining on board is also a memorable and friendly affair, with buffet meals and open seating that encourages sharing your experiences with like-minded international guests. No wonder ‘Eclipse’ continues to be a Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice.

A comfortable superior stateroom

A STYLISH AND RELAXED ATMOSPHERE

On ‘Eclipse,’ “elegant” doesn’t necessarily mean “formal.” You need not pack anything dressier than “smart casual” wear. The dining room seats all passengers at once; many meals are also served on the al fresco Weather Deck. When not on shore expeditions, guests are free to wander ‘Eclipse’s’ casual public spaces, including the Sun Deck (the best seats for wildlife viewing), and the lounge, which boasts L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

Outdoor dining on the Weather Deck

comfortable seating, perfect for a chat with your guides. The vessel itself is certified eco-friendly, small enough to nimbly navigate the Galápagos waters but large enough to ensure the safety of passengers, with stabilizers for comfortable sailing between islands. SAFE AND ECOLOGICALLY SOUND Partnering with the Galápagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research center to provide conservation education, ‘Eclipse’ complies with all current Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and International Safety Management (ISM) regulations. Rainforest Alliance has awarded ‘Eclipse’ its “Smart Voyager” seal of approval, certifying it as eco-friendly and socially responsible.

The spacious dining room

FLEXIBILITY AND COMFORT Choose from four staterooms, whether you prefer the privacy of a Single Stateroom or the roomy, 210-squarefoot Deluxe Stateroom. ‘Eclipse’ features all-outside cabins, meaning no matter which stateroom you choose, you enjoy ocean views at all times. What’s more, cabins are assigned upon booking for ease in planning. Read or reflect on your journey in the peaceful on-board library

DECK PLAN

MV ‘ECLIPSE’

SUN DECK

4 DELUXE STATEROOMS on the Boat Deck 8 SUPERIOR STATEROOMS with picture windows

on the Boat Deck 12 STATEROOMS with portholes on the Main Deck 2 SINGLE STATEROOMS with portholes on the Main Deck

BOAT DECK

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Type of vessel: Capacity: Length: Beam: Depth: Draft: Gross tonnage: Cruising speed: Electricity: Safety: Life jackets: Lifeboats: Accommodation: Crew: Infirmary:

Expedition vessel 48 passengers 210 ft. / 64 m 41 ft. / 12.5 m 23 ft. / 7.1 m 11 ft. / 3.2 m 1,610 11 knots 110 and 220 volt outlets ISM & SOLAS requirements In each cabin 6 26 air-conditioned cabins with private facilities 31, plus up to 4 naturalist guides Resident physician permanently on board

Services and amenities: Laundry, air conditioning throughout, satellite phones, library, complimentary water, sports gear, open-bridge policy.

WEATHER DECK

MAIN DECK

CABIN 18 Area: 210 sq.ft. approx.

CABIN 6 Area: 170 sq.ft. approx.

CABIN 27 Area: 170 sq.ft. approx.

CABIN 1 Area: 110 sq.ft. approx.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

Wonders of the Galápagos A Discovery Journey Through Ecuador & the Galápagos A marine iguana grazes on algae on Española Island

11 Days

Come face to face with giant tortoise, kayak with sea lion and stroll pristine beaches next to blue-footed booby on this small-group Discovery adventure to the Galápagos. Experience this archipelago on a seven-night cruise on board MV ‘Eclipse,’ one of Condé Nast Traveler’s best small ships. End your journey with a visit to Quito’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that brims with colonial charm and Baroque architecture.

DAY 1:

USA or Canada/ Guayaquil, Ecuador

Arrive in Guayaquil to begin your Galápagos adventure. DAY 2:

Guayaquil/The Galápagos

After a private welcome breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos. Board ‘Eclipse,’ your home for the seven-night cruise at the heart of your itinerary. After settling in, attend an introductory briefing and a fitting for your wetsuit and snorkeling gear. DAYS 3–8:

The Galápagos

Lying about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands are a haven for some of the world’s most varied wildlife. It was this diversity that

first led naturalist Charles Darwin to propose that species evolved in response to their environment. Darwin’s work also helped to alert the world to the need — urgent even in his own day — to preserve these islands from degradation by humans. Today, tourism to the Galápagos is closely managed, and your visit adheres to the strictest standards of environmental responsibility. Because weather, water and wildlife conditions are subject to constant change, your islands itinerary is not fixed, but two daily excursions are planned to the main sites and islands, which vary depending on the route you choose (ask your agen t for details). You may explore landmarks such as Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé Island, Punta Espinoza on Fernandina L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

Island, Gardner Bay and Punta Suarez on EspaĂąola, the volcanoes of Isabela Island and the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island. Each cruise day begins with an early breakfast, perhaps taken al fresco on ‘Eclipse’s’ spacious deck. You then board a sturdy rubber raft called a panga for the morning shore excursion. As soon as your feet touch terra firma, expect to spot flora and fauna (all different depending on the island), take photographs and confer with your naturalist guide. See sunbathing sea lion; skittering Sally Lightfoot crab; tangles of marine iguana; penguin, finch, pelican, frigate bird, tern and booby overhead and underfoot; even a century-old tortoise diligently trudging over the sand. Return to ‘Eclipse’ for a refreshing lunch, followed by time at leisure to nap or socialize on deck. Keep your binoculars close by for a possible sighting of whale or seabird. In the afternoon, return to the pangas for the second excursion of the day, perhaps with an opportunity to swim, kayak or snorkel. Back on board ‘Eclipse’ for the evening, there is time to shower and relax before gathering in the dining room for another wonderful meal. In the evening, your time is your own: attend a lecture on board by one of your affable guides, recapping the day’s sights and gaining a sneak peak at tomorrow’s itinerary; explore the mysteries of the night sky with an astronomy lecture on deck; peruse the ship’s excellent library; or gather for cocktails in the lounge to cap a day of extraordinary discoveries. MV ‘Eclipse’ B L D DAY 9:

The GalĂĄpagos/Quito

Disembark today and fly to Quito, where the remainder of your evening is at leisure. Quito’s central square is located a mere 16 miles south of the equator, making for temperate weather yearround. The city also boasts South America’s largest and bestpreserved Old Town, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Reminisce on your journey with a farewell dinner tonight. DAY 10:

Quito

Set off on a walking tour this morning, visiting Old Town and San Francisco Church, dedicated to Quito’s patron saint. Continue to Independence Plaza, the town’s oldest colonial center. You also visit La Compaùía Church, a Baroque masterpiece featuring an elaborate façade and a glittering interior created with seven tons of gold. Your evening is at leisure. DAY 11:

Close encounters with native dolphin on board the sturdy pangas

Quito/USA or Canada

Board your homebound flight. B NOTE: This program contains some active elements;

WISDOM RECOMMENDS Combine your tour with a journey to Peru for a visit to the Wonders of Peru & the GalĂĄpagos.

OVERVIEW: › (( [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ >lXpXhl`c# k_\ >Xc}gX^fj @jcXe[j n`k_ your choice from two island routings) and Quito

ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › :il`j\ k_\ >Xc}gX^fj fe YfXi[ D M É<Zc`gj\#Ê X I \X[\ijÊ Choice for CondÊ Nast Traveler readers › ;`jZfm\i k_\ >Xc}gX^fj fe kn`Z\$[X`cp `jcXe[ \oZlij`fej that include nature walks limited to 12 guests for more interaction with your naturalist guide › <eafp X n`[\ iXe^\ f] fe$YfXi[ XZk`m`k`\j# `eZcl[`e^ jkXi gazing, whale watching and an equator-crossing celebration › :il`j\ `e Zfd]fik `e É<Zc`gj\ÊjÊ ]lccp X`i$Zfe[`k`fe\[ staterooms and common areas

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

Wonders of Peru & the Galápagos A Discovery Journey Through Latin America Locals treading ancient trails near Pisac in Peru’s Urubamba Valley

16 Days

From larger-than-life Machu Picchu to the tiniest Sally Lightfoot crab on a Galápagos beach, this Discovery journey is the perfect introduction to Peru and Ecuador. Relive ancient civilizations as you visit the Sacred Valley’s iconic sites, including Ollantaytambo and Sacsayhuaman, as well as Quito’s colonial Old Town. Spend seven nights on board ‘Eclipse,’ exploring the Galápagos from closer than you ever imagined.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

DAY 1:

USA or Canada/Lima, Peru

Arrive in Lima, the “City of Kings,” full of colonial splendor and unexpected pleasures. DAY 2:

Lima/Cusco

Fly to Cusco and tour colonial and Incan archaeological sites this afternoon, including the Plaza de Armas and the Santo Domingo Temple, a Dominican church and convent built on the foundations of the Incan Koricancha (Place of Gold). Explore the massive Incan fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Visit Qenqo (The Labyrinth), an Incan shrine dedicated to the Pachamama (Earth Mother), and the small military fortress of Puka Pukara.

DAY 3:

Cusco/Sacred Valley/Cusco

Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas with a stop at Pisac, a town famous for its handicraft market. Afterward, visit Ollantaytambo, a formidable stone structure built of rose-colored granite. DAY 4:

Cusco/Machu Picchu

Travel by train — enjoying panoramic views of Peru’s stunning countryside — to Machu Picchu. Skeletons, artifacts and woolen clothing have been found here, but no written records, leaving the fate of the Incan

inhabitants a mystery. Explore the ruins with your guide before returning to your hotel for dinner. Tonight,

Enhance Your Journey with an Extension

stay over in the many hotels options in the town adjacent to Machu Picchu. DAY 5:

PARACAS (3 days) Discover Peru’s desert coastline and its wildlife, and windsurf the PaciďŹ c for a taste of the coastal life.

Machu Picchu/Cusco

Walk through Machu Picchu in the early morning hours to explore the ruins. You may opt to hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the entry point to the ruins from the Inca Trail, or to Huayna Picchu, the high mountain that is a part of the ruins. This evening, return to Cusco on board the many options of

AMAZON RIVER CRUISE (4, 5 or 8 days) Explore the wildlife-rich rainforest on board luxe MV ‘Aqua,’ disembarking to meet local communities.

train services that are available to Cusco. Arrival and transfer to your hotel in Cusco. DAY 6:

Cusco/Lima/Guayaquil, Ecuador

Fly to Guayaquil via Lima and meet your guide for a short briefing on your Galåpagos adventure. DAYS 7–13:

Fly to the GalĂĄpagos and board MV ‘Eclipse,’ your home for the next seven nights. No matter which of two routes you choose (see page 20 for details), you explore rocky beaches, volcanic landscapes and incredible wildlife on twice-daily excursions to the main islands and in GalĂĄpagos waters. Each cruise day begins with an early breakfast. You then board a sturdy rubber raft called a panga for the morning excursion. On every excursion, expect to spot flora and fauna unique to the island you visit, take plenty of photographs and confer with your naturalist guide. See and meet sunbathing sea lion; marine iguana; penguin, finch, pelican, tern and booby, overhead and underfoot; even a century-old tortoise trudging over the sand. Return to ‘Eclipse’ for a refreshing lunch, followed by the second excursion of the day. Back on board ‘Eclipse’ for the evening, relax before gathering in the dining room for another exquisite meal and an evening at leisure. MV ‘Eclipse’ B L D DAY 14:

The GalĂĄpagos/Quito

Travel to Baltra for your flight to Quito. Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner. DAY 15:

Quito

Today, discover Quito’s charming Old Town on a walking tour that includes a visit to San Francisco Church, rich in artistic treasures. Continue to Independence Plaza, the town’s oldest colonial center, which is bordered by the Cathedral, Government Palace and Archbishop’s Palace. View La Compaùía Church, a colonial jewel with an ornate interior created with seven tons of gold. Your evening is at leisure. DAY 16:

OTAVALO (4 days) Discover the folklore of the Otavalo region by shopping its famous market and visiting its rustic villages.

Guayaquil/The GalĂĄpagos

Quito/USA or Canada

Board your homebound flight. B NOTE: This program contains some active elements

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OVERVIEW: › (- [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ C`dX# :ljZf# J XZi\[ M Xcc\p# D XZ_l G `ZZ_l# >lXpXhl`c# k_\ >Xc}gX^fj @jcXe[j n`k_ pfli Z_f`Z\ ]ifd knf island routings) and Quito ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › B `Zb fø pfli aflie\p n`k_ X gi`mXk\ n\cZfd\ [`ee\i Xk k_\ Pre-Columbian Art Museum in Cusco, inside a former Incan ceremonial court › <og\i`\eZ\ k_\ dX^`Z f] D XZ_l G `ZZ_l ]ifd lg Zcfj\ Xe[ Y\ one of the ďŹ rst morning explorers on the ruins by staying at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located next to the Incan cffitadel (OPTIONAL) › KXb\ k_\ M `jkX[fd\ kiX`e kf D XZ_l G `ZZ_l Xe[ i\klie kf Cusco on the elegant Hiram Bingham, savoring a gourmet dffinner on board (OPTIONAL) › :il`j\ k_\ >Xc}gX^fj fe YfXi[ CondĂŠ Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice, MV ‘Eclipse’ › J \k flk fe kn`Z\$[X`cp \oZlij`fej c`d`k\[ kf () ^l\jkj# allowing for more interactions with your guide › <eafp feZ\$`e$X$c`]\k`d\ fggfikle`k`\j kf jefib\c alongside sea lion or kayak with dolphin

A IBCERC ROTMB L AT I N A M E R A, & H E IEKENT.CO G A L Ă P A GM OS

Signature Peru A Pre-Arranged Independent Journey with Local Guides Meeting local men in traditional attire near Machu Picchu

8 Days

From Machu Picchu to Lima, Peru’s must-sees come alive on this independent journey. Discover Lima’s colonial and pre-Columbian relics, as well as Cusco’s Andean and Spanish traditions. Absorb the spirit of the Sacred Valley with a sunrise stroll through Machu Picchu and a visit to the market town of Pisac. Lodge in the heart of the action by staying at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located next to the citadel.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

DAY 1:

USA or Canada/Lima, Peru

Depart on a flight to Lima. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. DAY 2:

Lima

This afternoon, tour Lima, the colonial center of which is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin at the Plaza Mayor. Continue to the historic Cathedral, and walk past the Presidential Palace, where the soldiers on guard offer an excellent photo opportunity. Afterward, visit the Monastery of San Francisco and its collection of fine paintings and frescoes. Leave Lima’s colonial center and for a visit to the Larco Herrera Museum, which houses some 50,000 ceramics of the Mochica culture, most of them unearthed by the

museum’s founder at his hacienda in northern Peru. DAY 3:

Lima/Cusco

Fly to Cusco and enjoy some time at leisure to rest and acclimatize to the altitude. This afternoon’s sightseeing takes in the city’s major sites — including the Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas and the Santo Domingo Temple — and nearby archaeological sites of Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Sacsayhuaman. Compiled of stone blocks precisely pieced together without mortar, Sacsayhuaman remains a testament to Incan architectural skills. DAY 4:

Cusco/Sacred Valley/Cusco

This morning, depart for the Sacred Valley of the Incas — the valley that

sprawls out far below Machu Picchu, where an ancient way of life lives on — to visit Awanakancha, a breeding center for South America’s renowned camelids, including llama, alpaca and vicuùa. Continue to the local village of Pisac, famous for its rustic, colorful market. This vibrant market — filled with stalls brimming with handmade sweaters, ponchos, wall hangings, purses and jewelry — is a draw for visitors the world over. Afterward, drive to Ollantaytambo, an impressive Incan fortress constructed of rose-colored granite that was once a bustling complex of temples, baths and soldiers’ barracks. DAY 5:

Cusco/Machu Picchu

This morning, board the train to Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.� A late-morning arrival gives you plenty of time to explore the breathtaking Incan ruins. Discovered in a hidden tangle of overgrown vines and trees atop the mountain in 1911, Machu Picchu will forever hold the secret of its passing — no written record of the Incas survives. With your guide, climb and explore the city’s ruins and visualize the priests, craftsmen and servants who inhabited this seemingly uninhabitable citadel. In the evening, sleep

over the many hotel options in the nearby locations, from basic and friendly, to luxury resorts in the midst of the tropical woods. DAY 6:

Machu Picchu/Cusco

Machu Picchu is a place of timeless wonder, and there is no better time to experience a magical moment than at sunrise, when you share the site with the morning mist. Walk the pathways of Machu Picchu and explore its remnants and masterful construction. Afterward, you may opt to hike to Inti Punku, the famous Sun Gate that marks the entry point to Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail, or to Huayna Picchu, the iconic mountain that towers over the ruins. Return this afternoon to Cusco via the train. DAYS 7–8:

The regal Cathedral in Lima’s Plaza de Armas

Cusco/Lima/USA or Canada

Return to Lima, where the remainder of the day is free to explore as you choose. Depart for home the next day.

OVERVIEW: › / [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ C`dX# :ljZf# J XZi\[ M Xcc\p Xe[ D XZ_l G `ZZ_l ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS:

NOTE: This program contains some active elements

RECOMMENDS Upgrade to the deluxe Orient-Express Hiram Bingham train and travel to Cusco in luxury on Day 6.

› >X`e X [\\g le[\ijkXe[`e^ f] G \ilĂŠj XeZ`\ek _`jkfip Yp visiting the most signiďŹ cant pre-Columbian sites in the Sacred Valley, including Sacsayhuaman and Ollantaytambo › =\\[ ccXdX# XcgXZX Xe[ m`ZlÂŒX Xe[ c\Xie XYflk j_\Xi`e^ and weaving techniques during a visit to Awanakancha, a breeding center for South American camelids › J kXp `e D XZ_l G `ZZ_l J XeZklXip Cf[^\# k_\ fecp _fk\c located inside the Incan citadel, and watch the sun rise over the ruffins (OPTIONAL)

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

TOURIST SERIES

Signature Peru & the Galápagos A Pre-Arranged Independent Journey with Local Guides A Sally Lightfoot crab makes its way across seaside rocks in the Galápagos

17 Days

Commune with nature and civilizations of a bygone era on this independent journey through Peru, the Galápagos and Ecuador. Explore some of the world’s most astounding pre-Columbian remnants, including Machu Picchu, steeped in history and shrouded in myth. Then fly to the Galápagos for a magical seven-night cruise through one of the world’s most diverse habitats, and discover the colonial treasures of Quito.

DAYS 1–2:

USA or Canada/ Lima, Peru

Arrive in Lima, where you are met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the next day touring the “City of Kings.”

at Ollantaytambo, a fortress of massive terraces that rise to the top of a peak. DAY 5:

DAY 3:

Lima/Cusco

Fly to Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire. Acclimatize before a city tour, which includes the Cathedral and the Convent of Santo Domingo. Later, explore the ruins of Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Sacsayhuaman. DAY 4:

Cusco/Sacred Valley/Cusco

Explore the spirit of the Sacred Valley with a visit to Awanakancha, a center where llama, alpaca and vicuña are bred. Continue to Pisac, a vibrant market town. L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

We continue over our visit and stop

Cusco/Machu Picchu

Board the train to Machu Picchu. Accompanied by your guide, explore the “Lost City of the Incas,” which remained remarkably intact through the Spanish conquest and only opened to the world with its discovery in 1911. Walk its spacious terraces and stone steps and walkways, marveling at the Incas’ architectural skill — not a drop of mortar was used in the citadel’s construction. Tonight, lodge in the only hotel located next to the ruins.

DAY 6:

Machu Picchu/Cusco

Observe Machu Picchu at sunrise, sharing the experience in silence with the morning mist. Hiking among the nearly empty ruins, it is easy to imagine the lives of the Incas who once lived here and who disappeared without a written trace. Return to Cusco this afternoon. DAY 7:

Cusco/Quito, Ecuador

Fly to Quito via Lima. For nearly three centuries, the arts and learning flourished under Spanish colonial rule in Quito, leaving behind ornate cathedrals and Baroque architecture in the Old Town. Your afternoon is at leisure. DAY 8:

Quito/Otavalo/Quito

This morning, set off for the 17th-century Hacienda La Compaùia, where its owners welcome you with a homemade breakfast and private tour of their gorgeous estate, including the sprawling rose farm. Continue to Otavalo, home to a famous textile and produce market. After lunch at another local hacienda, visit the quaint village of Peguche, home to a waterfall considered sacred in Otavalo culture. DAYS 9–15:

Quito/The GalĂĄpagos

Fly to the GalĂĄpagos and board ‘Eclipse’ for your seven-night cruise. Weather and wildlife conditions affect actual day-by-day itineraries, but twice-daily excursions are planned to the main islands and in GalĂĄpagos waters, regardless of which routing you choose (see page 20 for details). Each day on board ‘Eclipse’ starts with an early breakfast, followed by the first of two excursions on board a sturdy inflatable boat called a panga. Spot flora and fauna unique to the island you visit, take photographs of your discoveries and discuss any questions with your naturalist guide. Watch sea lion sunbathing, dodge Sally Lightfoot crab scuttling past on the beach and catch the eye of a century-old tortoise. Return to ‘Eclipse’ for a refreshing lunch, and in the afternoon, depart on your second excursion of the day, replete with opportunities to swim, snorkel or simply stroll the dazzling beaches. Back on board ‘Eclipse’ for the evening, relax before gathering in the dining room for another delicious meal and an evening at leisure. MV ‘Eclipse’ B L D DAYS 16–17:

The GalĂĄpagos/Quito/USA or Canada

Disembark ‘Eclipse’ and fly to Quito. Depart for home the next day. NOTE: This program contains some active elements

The mighty Urubamba River owing through the Sacred Valley

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OVERVIEW: › (. [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ C`dX# :ljZf# J XZi\[ M Xcc\p# D XZ_l G `ZZ_l# H l`kf# F kXmXcf Xe[ k_\ >Xc}gX^fj @jcXe[j n`k_ pfli Z_f`Z\ from two island routings) ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS:

RECOMMENDS Upgrade and take the deluxe Hiram Bingham train from Cusco to Machu Picchu.

› N XkZ_ k_\ jle i`j\ fm\i k_\ @eZXe Z`kX[\c n_\e pfl jkXp Xk Machu PIcchu › ;`jZfm\i k_\ >Xc}gX^fj @jcXe[j fe YfXi[ D M É<Zc`gj\#Ê X CondÊ Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice winner › J \k flk fe knf \oZlij`fej \m\ip [Xp# \ogcfi`e^ k_\ extraordinary biodiversity in an excursion group limited to 12 guests for more access to your naturalist guide › J fXb lg k_\ jg`i`k f] k_\ `jcXe[j n`k_ XZk`m`k`\j jlZ_ Xj n_Xc\ watching, star gazing and swimming in wildlife-rich waters L A T I N A M EARBI C A , RO & TMB H EIEKENT.CO G A L à P A GMO S ERC

SIGNATURE SERIES

Signature Amazon River & Colca Canyon A Pre-Arranged Independent Journey with Local Guides The luxurious MV ‘Aria’ cuts a striking profile on the Amazon River

10 Days

Explore Peru’s Amazon and Colca Canyon on this Signature journey. Venture into the fabled rainforest with a four-night cruise on board MV ‘Aria,’ the most luxurious vessel plying the Amazon River, and discover the reserve’s teeming wildlife and local communities. Fly to the southern highlands and see the best sights of a canyon twice as deep as the Grand Canyon: rising mountains, lush valleys and soaring condor.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

DAY 1:

USA or Canada/Lima, Peru

This evening, arrive in Lima, where you are met and transferred to your luxury hotel. Founded in 1535 by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, the “City of Kings” is a mélange of colonial structures, pre-Columbian sites and modern conveniences. This evening, you overnight in one of the city’s loveliest neighborhoods. DAYS 2–5:

Lima/Iquitos/Amazon

Fly to Iquitos. Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic drive to the village of Nauta, the jumping-off point for your Amazon River voyage. Board MV ‘Aria,’ the newest and most comfortable cruiser on the Amazon River. After a safety briefing, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow adventurers. Over the next

five days, sail several tributaries of the Amazon (including the Pacaya and Ucayali rivers) and the mighty river itself, and explore a world rarely seen by the ordinary traveller. The largest river by volume in the world, the Amazon remains untamed: no bridge has ever been built to span it, and the Amazon rainforest accounts for more than a third of the world’s entire biodiversity. Sights and specific routes depend on whether you visit during high- or low-water season, but expect plenty of wildlife sightings from ‘Aria’s’ skiffs and informative guided excursions on land. Spot a myriad of rare fauna — such as three-toed sloth, iguana, monkey and macaw — as well as a variety of flora, including fruit trees and medicinal

plants. During stops in native villages such as Hatum Posa, meet native Amazonians carving out a living from fishing or subsistence farming. Take a pole and bait to some of the world’s most fish-rich rivers and catch some of the 3,000-plus species of fish. Throughout your journey, enjoy gourmet meals designed by acclaimed Peruvian chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. On your last evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner on board and toast your jungle adventure with the other passengers and crew. MV ‘Aria’ Day 2: B D; Days 3–5: B L D DAY 6:

Amazon/Iquitos/Lima

Disembark in Iquitos and enjoy a city tour and a visit to the Manatee Rescue Center. Fly to Lima this evening and overnight in the capital. The remainder of your evening is at leisure. DAY 7:

Lima/Arequipa/Colca Valley

This morning, board a flight to Arequipa, often referred to as “The White City� after the pearly volcanic rock used to build many of its colonial Spanish churches and homes. Upon your arrival, you are met and transferred to the Colca Valley. The valley is located about a five-hour drive from Arequipa, and the journey reveals southern Peru’s striking panoramas of imposing mountains standing guard over verdant valleys. Local geologists claim that Colca is the world’s deepest canyon, with chasms that measure up to 11,000 feet from top to bottom. In the valley, spot ancestral farming terraces, still cultivated by the native Collaguas.

Colca Valley

Colca Valley/Arequipa/Lima

This morning, take a last opportunity to experience the unique activities offered by your lodge or contemplate the breathtaking Colca Valley surroundings. In the afternoon, privately transfer back to Arequipa airport for your return flight to Lima. Arrive in Lima, where our representative meets and assists you with your overnight international departure flight. B L DAY 10:

USA or Canada

Arrive in the USA or Canada.

Early this morning, meet your guide and depart for the Condor Cross in Colca Canyon. At the Condor Cross, witness these rare, magnificent birds — some with wingspans of over 10 feet — as they take flight by plunging from the canyon walls to hang-glide in circular formation through the warm air. Marvel at the canyon’s depth and beauty. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the many activities offered by your lodge, which include fishing, horseback riding, cycling and scenic walks around the spectacular Colca Valley during the day, and stargazing at night. You may also choose to learn how to cook Peruvian fare using regional ingredients such as quinoa, or to visit the on-site vegetable garden, which provides seasonal produce for the restaurant. DAY 9:

DAY 8:

A massive Andean condor glides over Colca Canyon

OVERVIEW: › (' [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ C`dX# @hl`kfj# 8dXqfe I `m\i Xe[ :fcZX M Xcc\p ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › KiXm\c k_\ 8dXqfe Xe[ `kj ki`YlkXi`\j fe YfXi[ k_\ \c\^Xek MV ‘Aria,’ the best way to discover the rainforest’s most remote corners › J Xmfi ^flid\k d\Xcj [X`cp ]ifd É8i`XĂŠjĂŠ jk\ccXi d\el# Zi\Xk\[ by renowned Peruvian chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino › D Xo`d`q\ pfli \ogcfiXk`fe f] k_\ 8dXqfe n`k_ \oZlij`fej limited to eight people, led by experienced naturalist guides

RECOMMENDS Enjoy a private transfer for you and your party when you travel from Arequipa to Colca Valley on Day 7. L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

SIGNATURE SERIES

Signature Ecuador A Pre-Arranged Independent Journey with Local Guides Locals pause within sight of the massive Cotopaxi Volcano

9 Days

A wealth of Indian relics, Spanish colonial architecture, dazzling lakes and volcanic panoramas are all packed into this tiny Andean nation. On this Signature journey, stroll the cobbled streets of Quito’s Old Town and visualize the religious rituals of the Caranqui Indians at mysterious Cochasqui. Watch artisans at work in Otavalo and Cuenca as they proudly keep Ecuador’s craft traditions alive.

DAY 1:

USA or Canada/ Quito, Ecuador Rich in history, Quito — at an altitude of more than 9,100 feet — is the second highest capital city in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For nearly three centuries, the arts and intellectual societies flourished under Spanish rule, a fact evident in its historic center’s splendidly restored colonial buildings and churches lining narrow, cobbled streets. DAY 2:

Quito

Embark on a walking tour of Quito’s center — also known as Old Town — to see San Francisco Church and its religious art museum, La Compañia Church and the Cathedral. Stroll Independence Square before heading to L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

Panecillo Hill. Later, you and a skilled chef prepare a traditional lunch at one of the neighborhood’s most charming restaurants. Continue to the Mindalae Museum to view handicrafts, hunting weapons, musical instruments and housewares used by Ecuador’s preColumbian civilizations. DAY 3:

Quito/Otavalo

Depart Quito after breakfast and visit Cochasqui, considered the most important archaeological site in Ecuador’s Northern Andes. Explore the ruins of pre-Incan pyramids, used in the religious ceremonies of Caranqui Indians.

DAY 4:

Enhance Your Journey with an Extension

Otavalo

Spend the day exploring the Otavalo region’s beautiful sites, including shimmering Cuicocha Lake, a dormant crater lake. Stop in quaint craft villages that surround Otavalo, including San Antonio, San Miguel de Ibarra (located at the foot of the Imbabura Volcano) and Iluman, where you may see the type of loom used in the ancient weaving techniques of Otavalo’s famed artisans. DAY 5:

DIVING THE GALÁPAGOS (4 days) Experience the islands’ biodiversity from a unique perspective, gliding past turtles and countless fish.

Otavalo/Quito/Cuenca

After breakfast, wander around Poncho Square’s vibrant market, where you find everything from woven textiles and crafts to fruits and vegetables. Enjoy lunch at a charming local hacienda and return to Quito to board your flight to Cuenca. The remainder of the evening is at leisure to discover beautiful Cuenca on your own. DAY 6:

Cuenca

After breakfast, drive to the ruins of Ingapirca, once a political and religious center used as an agricultural calendar and for worshipping the sun. The name Ingapirca means “the Inca wall” in the ancient language of Quechua. The Incas started building the complex in AD 1460 on top of a Cañari site that dates back to 1200. Walk the wide pathways of these labyrinthine ruins that sprawl out from the foot of a mountain. DAY 7:

A textile artisan weaving in Gualaceo

Cuenca

Today, drive to the craft villages dotting the Santa Ana Valley, including San Bartolo, where locals handcraft ceramics. Continue to Chordeleg, a small town famous for its gold and silver work. Visit Gualaceo and experience the hustle and bustle of its local market. Later, meet the Rodas family, who demonstrate the traditional techniques still used in Cuenca to manufacture the region’s intricate textiles.

DAY 8:

Cuenca/Quito

Visit the neo-Gothic cathedral, noticing its distinctive blue dome that dominates Cuenca’s skyline. Construction on the New Cathedral started in 1880; it was erected to replace the Old Cathedral (still standing across from the new one), built by the Spanish in 1557, the year the city was founded. Afterward, stop at the Cañari ruins at Pumapungo. Then explore the Conceptas Museum’s collection of religious art. You also have the opportunity to visit a Panama hat factory. Ironically, Panama hats hail from Ecuador, not Panama, and were originally produced in the small towns of Jipijapa and Montecristi before entrepreneur Homero Ortega Peñafiel popularized them in Cuenca and beyond. After lunch, stop at the workshop of Simón Cordero, a prestigious jewelry designer who has won several prizes for his silver pieces. Later, board a flight to Quito. DAY 9:

OVERVIEW: 0 [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ H l`kf# F kXmXcf Xe[ :l\eZX ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: ;\cm\ `ekf k_\ _`jkfip f] k_\ \e`^dXk`Z gpiXd`[j f] Cochasqui, an important but little-understood site D \\k dXjk\i Xik`jXej Xk k_\`i _fd\j `e k_\ m`ccX^\j Xifle[ Cuenca, each town specializing in a particular handicraft M `j`k k_\ fi`^`eXc G XeXdX _Xk ]XZkfip Xe[ n`ke\jj k_\ jb`cc involved in making these classic chapeaus

Quito/USA or Canada

Board your homebound flight. B C A ,RO & MB T H IEKENT.CO E G A L Á P AM GOS FOR DAT E S & PR I C E S SE E PAG E S 10 0 -10L5AOT RI NV IASIM TE AR B IERC

EXTENSIONS

Peru, the Galápagos, Ecuador & Bolivia Extensions Extend your experience with these add-on itineraries. The luxurious MV ‘Aqua’ making her way down the Amazon River

AMAZON RIVER CRUISE (4, 5, or 8 days, visiting Iquitos and Pacaya Samiria Reserve) DAY 1: Arrive in Iquitos this afternoon and transfer overland to Nauta, a small town

on the Marañon River, to board your ship and settle in to your suite, your home for the next four evenings. MV ‘Aqua’ D DAYS 2–4: Explore the small inlets and various winding river systems that make up the flooded forest. Pacaya Samiria Reserve covers more than five million acres at the headwaters of the Amazon basin and teems with wildlife and aquatic life, including the pink Amazon dolphin, three-toed sloth and howler monkey. Travel the inner rivers and black water lagoons and visit local villages along the way, learning about a traditional way of life in this scantly populated region. As you float through the flooded forests, your guide points out the wealth of flora and fauna in this remarkable area, including giant six-foot-wide lily pads. Evening expeditions give you the chance to see the nocturnal animals, such as the elusive caiman, come to life. Between shore excursions and lectures, savor fine contemporary Peruvian cuisine on board, thanks to a stellar menu created by star chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. Meals are paired with fine South American wines and refreshing beverages. MV ‘Aqua’ B L D DAY 5: After lunch, visit a manatee rescue center where you have the opportunity to learn about the Amazon’s most fragile mammal. Head to the airport to continue to your next Latin American destination. MV ‘Aqua’ B L

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

MACHU PICCHU (5 days, visiting Lima and Cusco) DAY 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru’s capital, which boasts an alluring mix of Spanish colonial

structures and pre-Columbian relics. DAY 2: Fly to Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, and explore the city and the surrounding ruins. DAY 3: Board the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu. Lodge in the shadows of the Incan citadel. DAY 4: Take a sunrise stroll through Machu Picchu, then hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) or Huayna Picchu Mountain. Return to Cusco by train. DAY 5: Fly to Lima. After a city tour that includes the Archaeological Museum, return to the airport to connect with your homebound flight.

PERU’S LAKE TITICACA (3 days) DAY 1: Arrive in Juliaca, where you are met and transferred to your hotel. Choose from

your hotel’s many activities, exploring your surroundings by boat, mountain bike, on foot or by vehicle. After a day of exploring, find tranquility in your hotel DAY 2: Delve into the culture of this region by visiting the Andean communities on the islands of Taquile or Uros, both reachable only by a boat ride across Lake Titicaca, the largest navigable lake in the world. You may choose to explore the archaeological sites of Chullpas de Sillustani, a burial ground of the pre-Incan Colla tribe, and the splendid colonial churches in the quaint towns of Juli and Pomata. DAY 3: Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lima or Cusco. B

OTAVALO (4 days, visiting Cotacachi, Peguche and Otavalo)

PARACAS (3 days)

DIVING THE GALÁPAGOS (5 days, visiting Puerto Ayora)

DAY 1: Depart Quito and visit the ruins

DAYS 1–2: Drive from Lima to Paracas, a

DAY 1: Arrive in Puerto Ayora. Get your

of pre-Inca pyramids. Continue to your hotel. DAY 2: Visit San Antonio de Ibarra, a nearby village famous for its woodcarvings; Peguche, home of the Otavalo Indians who create carpets; and Cotacachi, renowned for leather goods.

bay and national reserve located along the Pacific Coast. En route, visit Pachacamac, a pre-Incan ceremonial center. Paracas boasts a panorama of desert landscapes abutting the sea, with cliffs fringing beaches teeming with wildlife. Discover the region through excursions offered by your hotel, which include catamaran tours, windsurfing and photo safaris. You may also opt for a flight to view the enigmatic Nazca lines from above, or set off for the Ballestas Islands by yacht. Back at your hotel, relax poolside or learn to prepare ceviche. DAY 3: Transfer to Lima for your onward flight. B

feet wet by snorkeling Tortuga Bay before your diving equipment fitting. Tonight, enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner.

DAY 3: Embark on a short hike at Cuicocha’s crater lake. Then travel to Otavalo and visit its world-famous market. On your way back to Quito, you may stop at a local school, where students learn ancient weaving techniques. DAY 4: Continue on your journey. B

DAYS 2–4: Spend two days diving

two different sites each day, from the milder waters of Santa Fe to the more challenging ones at Gordon Rocks. No matter where you go, you swim amid a variety of abundant sealife, including ray, shark, sea turtle and whale. Return to the mainland for lunch and spend afternoons cycling or exploring Puerto Ayora on foot. DAY 5: Continue to your cruise or return to the airport for your onward flight. B

MTEARBI ERC C A , RO & TMB H EIEKENT.CO G A L Á P A GMO S FOR DAT E S & PR I C E S SE E PAG E S 10 0 -10L 5A TOIRN VAI SI

TAILOR MADE

Trails Through the Sacred Valley A Tailor Made Journey Through Peru Ancient farming terraces descend the slopes of the Sacred Valley

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. On this independent journey, follow the Inca Trail on a half-day hike to Machu Picchu, exploring ancient ruins along the way. Kick off your independent adventure when you arrive in Lima, Peru’s capital. Then fly to the Incan empire’s ancient capital, Cusco. Tour the city, stopping at the Plaza de Armas and the Santo Domingo Temple, a convent built on the foundations of an Incan temple. Set off for Sacsayhuaman, an Incan fortress of massive stone blocks built, remarkably, without any mortar. Continue to acclimatize to the Andean atmosphere by visiting quaint local villages of Urcos, Andahuaylillas and Pikillacta. Discover lesser-known sites, including the ruins of Tipon. Begin to practice for your Inca Trail hike by

walking from the town of Chinchero to Huchuy Qosqo, an archaeological site with magnificent views of the Urubamba Valley. Continue downhill to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where a vehicle awaits to transfer you to your hotel. Now fully acclimated, drive into the valley for a rafting adventure, followed by a visit to Ollantaytambo, another impressively built Incan fortress. The day of your hike, take a train through a scenic, ever-narrowing gorge to kilometer 104, the starting point of your trek. During your half-day hike along the Inca Trail, pass the Chachabamba ruins on an ascent through valleys and a cloud forest. Reach Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the original entrance to Machu Picchu. Once in Machu Picchu, join your

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

guide to explore the site. Feel its pulse as you visualize the inhabitants of this ancient citadel, now long gone and with no written record of their history. Make your way back to Cusco and spend a day exploring the city on your own. Return to Lima for the final two days of your journey and tour its famous sites: Plaza Mayor, Government Palace and Larco Herrera Museum. Board your homebound flight.

DAY 1: DAYS 2–3: DAYS 4–5: DAY 6: DAYS 7–8: DAYS 9–10:

Lima Cusco Sacred Valley Machu Picchu Cusco Lima

TAILOR MADE

Peruvian Myths & Relics A Tailor Made Journey Through Peru Adobe walls of Chan Chan, a sprawling city built by the Chimu civilization

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. Discover colonial Lima before venturing to Peru’s northern coast, rich in archaeological sites such as the Chimu city of Chan Chan and the tomb of the Lord of Sipan. Your journey into Peru’s storied past begins in Lima, where you explore the fascinating Larco Herrera Museum — home to 50,000 Mochica ceramics — in the company of its curator. Also visit the pyramid temples of Pachacamac, just on the outskirts of Lima in the Lurin Valley. Your journey then brings you to Chiclayo, in Peru’s northern coast. Tour Sipan, where the gold-laden tomb of the Lord of Sipan was discovered. Travel overland to Trujillo, stopping at a hacienda for a Peruvian Paso horse demonstration. Also stop by the Temples

of the Sun and Moon, 130-foot-tall pyramids built by the mighty Moche. Spend some time here discovering 16th-century Trujillo. Visit Huaca del Dragon, a Chimu ceremonial center, and dine in Huanchaco Beach, where fishermen still set off into the wild Pacific on caballitos de totora (reed canoes). Explore sprawling Chan Chan, a maze of adobe streets and plazas. Next, fly to Cusco and visit the town of Chinchero and a traditional textile center. Also discover the ruins of Ollantaytambo and stop by a Pisac village, famous for its handicrafts. Take the train to Machu Picchu and begin your explorations alongside Alfredo Mormontoy Atayupanqui, its former resident archaeologist. Excavations at

the Incan citadel have revealed skeletons and artifacts, but no treasure or written records, forever obscuring the secret of the site’s decline. Wrap up your journey with a visit to Sacsayhuaman, a shining exemplar of Incan architectural skills; the shrine Qenqo; Tambomachay, a sacred bathing place; and a city tour of Cusco afterward. Fly back to Lima for a day at leisure before your homebound flight.

DAYS 1–2: DAY 3: DAYS 4 –5: DAYS 6–7: DAY 8: DAYS 9–10: DAY 11:

Lima Chiclayo Trujillo Sacred Valley Machu Picchu Cusco Lima

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

TAILOR MADE

Andean Volcanoes & Valleys A Tailor Made Journey Through Ecuador A charming colonial hacienda in quaint San Agustin de Callo, Cotopaxi

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. Discover Ecuador — one of South America’s most intriguing and lessvisited countries — on a journey through its splendid colonial-era cities and incomparable Andean landscapes. Start off in Quito, Ecuador’s capital and the second-highest in the world. Walk Quito’s historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit San Francisco Church, La Compañia Church and Panecillo Hill. Take a ride on Quito’s cable car as well, which offers spectacular views of the valley. Continue to Cotopaxi National Park, home to Mount Cotopaxi, a massive active volcano. Hike near Limpiopungo Lake or visit the Salitre ruins, where Incan structures, still partially buried, rise from the grassy slopes.

From Cotopaxi, head for Riobamba, passing awesome landscapes of Andean ridges rising over verdant hills. Stop en route to admire aquamarine Lake Quilotoa and enjoy a traditional homemade meal with a local family. Surrounded by magnificent snowcapped peaks, Riobamba is a picturesque town of cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. It is also your jumping-off point to take the local train through Devil’s Nose Pass, a not-to-be-missed experience. Travel through some of the most remote and striking Andean scenery in all of South America. Pause at Ingapirca, Cañari ruins built in AD 1200. Arrive in Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend time meandering its cobblestone streets, flower-filled plazas

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

and picturesque sites, including both the old and new Cathedrals. Later, visit unique craft villages in the nearby Santa Ana Valley. End your journey back in Quito, delving deeper into Ecuadorean culture with a visit to the studio of Oswaldo Viteri, a renowned contemporary artist. Explore the Mindalae Museum and learn ancient ceramic techniques from expert local artisans. Depart on your homebound flight.

DAYS 1–2: DAY 3: DAY 4: DAYS 5–7: DAYS 8–9:

Quito Cotopaxi Riobamba Cuenca Quito

TAILOR MADE

Best of Bolivia A Tailor Made Journey Through Bolivia Pescado Island rising out of Uyuni’s salt flats

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. On this independent journey, explore South America’s highest and most remote nation. Kick off your adventure by flying overnight to Bolivia and arriving in Santa Cruz. In the first couple of days, take an exploratory tour of the city and venture to enigmatic Samaipata, a pre-Columbian religious site. Continue to Sucre and visit the city’s significant sites. From Sucre, head to the village of Tarabuco, home to a colorful Sunday market teeming with villagers dressed in their finest textiles. Gain a true sense of the country’s culture and stunning natural makeup when you travel overland to Potosi and continue through barren landscapes dotted with occasional llama herds to Uyuni, gateway to Bolivia’s otherworldly salt flats.

Spend a day exploring Uyuni Salt Flat, a colossal body of water covered in white salt. Learn methods of salt extraction and visit wildlife-rich Isla Pescado, rising out of the middle of the lake like a mirage. Return to Potosi — one of the highest cities in the world at over 13,000 feet above sea level — and tour this colonial mining town. Fly to La Paz the following day. Transfer to Huatajata for a cruise to Pariti Island, Kalauta Island and the Urus-Iruitos Floating Islands. These islands are scantly inhabited by locals, many living much like their ancestors did. Later, experience more of the local culture when you receive a blessing from a kallawaya, a Bolivian natural healer.

Continue exploring this region with a cruise on Lake Titicaca, stopping at Copacabana, Moon Island and Sun Island. In Huatajata, gather for stargazing at the Alajpacha Observatory and explore the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku. You then return to La Paz for the final days of your journey. Discover its colonial architecture, modern neighborhoods, witch doctor’s market and the surreal Valley of the Moon. Board your homebound flight.

DAYS 1–2: DAYS 3–4: DAYS 5–6: DAY 7: DAYS 8–9: DAYS 10–12:

Santa Cruz Sucre Uyuni Salt Flat Potosi Lake Titicaca La Paz

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

HOTEL PORTFOLIO

Hotel Portfolio A selection of recommended hotels for Peru, the Galápagos, Ecuador & Bolivia

HOTEL PARACAS, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT Ica, Peru

TAMBO DEL INKA, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT & SPA Urubamba, Peru

Hotel Paracas is designed to immerse you in the unique culture of Peru’s central coast. Set sail to the Ballestas Islands for close encounters with wildlife, or charter a flight over the enigmatic PreIncan Nazca Lines. Unwind from the day’s adventures in the spa, where unique treatments prove equally magical. The hotel features 120 rooms, two outdoor swimming pools, a bar and lounge, and the Explorer’s Club, a program designed for young adventurers.

Tambo del Inka is the second Starwood Luxury Collection property in Peru. With its contemporary décor and traditional Andean hospitality, the resort is a luxurious retreat with modern amenities that embraces the nature that surrounds it. In addition to 128 elegant rooms and suites — boasting views of the Andes and the Vilcanota River — this hotel features a spa, two heated swimming pools and restaurants in which to savor Peru’s diverse cuisine.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

MIRAFLORES PARK HOTEL Lima, Peru

LAS CASITAS DEL COLCA Colca Canyon, Peru

MACHU PICCHU SANCTUARY LODGE Machu Picchu, Peru

Miraflores Park Hotel is located in the Malecón de la Reserva in an exclusive residential area near the Pacific Ocean. The hotel provides easy access to the city’s best sights — the colonial architecture surrounding Lima’s Plaza Mayor, superb museums and glamorous shops.

Las Casitas del Colca is nestled in a tranquil location in the heart of Colca Canyon. This luxurious Orient-Express lodge boasts 20 individual casitas offering supreme privacy and exclusivity and an opportunity to experience the beauty of the canyon, its nature and community.

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel located adjacent to Machu Picchu. The hotel has two suites and 29 rooms, 12 of them with an amazing view of the mountains. Its interior garden, apart from the beautiful panoramic view, boasts a variety of local flowers and orchids.

HOTEL MONASTERIO Cusco, Peru

THE HIRAM BINGHAM Peru

HOTEL RIO SAGRADO Urubamba, Peru

High in the Andes — more than 9,800 feet above sea level — lies the historic city of Cusco, with its unique blend of Spanish and Inca cultures. At its heart is the Hotel Monasterio, originally a 16th-century monastery. Hotel Monasterio, an OrientExpress hotel, is a convenient base from which to discover Machu Picchu.

The Hiram Bingham train is the most luxurious way to travel the breathtaking landscape between Cusco and Machu Picchu. Step on board, and you are immersed in an elegant world of polished wood, gleaming cutlery and glittering glass. The Hiram Bingham assures a magical journey never to be forgotten.

Rio Sagrado is in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, near the Urubamba River. Its enchanting atmosphere exudes peace and harmony, creating a home away from home. Its 21 guest suites feature designer bathrooms, heated wood floors and ample riverfront terraces that blend seamlessly with the countryside.

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AQUA EXPEDITIONS Peruvian Amazon Aqua Expeditions operates two luxurious Amazon cruisers — the 24-guest, 130-foot-long MV ‘Aqua’ and the new 32-guest, 145 foot-long MV ‘Aria’ — taking passengers deep into Peru’s wilderness. Daily excursions on launch boats allow you to watch pink dolphins, cruise past six-foot-wide water lilies, fish for piranha and meet with the people who live out their days along the river. Expert guides — many of whom grew up in the region — provide rich detail about life along the river. They enrich your journey to little-visited areas such as the remote Pacaya Samiria Reserve, with stories about the life and folklore of the region. On board either vessel, you also enjoy fine South American wine (included in every meal) and haute cuisine created by executive chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino in all-inclusive comfort. Staterooms feature en suite seating areas, generous beds and wall-to-wall panoramic windows, while the observation deck and outdoor lounge are perfect spots for relaxing. Choose between three-, four- or seven-night journeys; all departures are guaranteed. L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

CASA CEIBO Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador Casa Ceibo Boutique Hotel & Spa sparkles like an exotic gem on the Ecuadorian coastline. This luxury hotel distinguishes itself as South America’s only Green Star Diamond Award winner for its eco-friendly efforts. In addition, Casa Ceibo has received honors by the American Academy of Hospitality Services and Smart Voyager for excellence in quality and service, in addition to environmental, community and social consciousness. The hotel is located next to the historic city of Bahia de Caraquez, in Manabí Province. Perched on a natural bay, the hotel offers easy access to water sports, bird sanctuaries and national parks. The hotel itself boasts luxurious amenities in comfortable guest rooms, in addition to unique extras: a high-end spa and fitness center, mosaic-tiled pool, a swim-up bar and grill, red-clay tennis court, exquisite gardens and gourmet dining. With 18 unique guest rooms and suites, Casa Ceibo accommodates singles, couples and small families.

HILTON COLÓN GUAYAQUIL Guayaquil, Ecuador Boasting 294 spacious, renovated guest rooms and suites, the Hilton Colón Guayaquil offers comfortable, world-class accommodations in the lovely Ecuadorean city. The impressive building is located only five minutes away from the airport and dominates Guayaquil's new booming commercial and financial zone. It is also close to the city's main shopping centers and offers easy access to the downtown district area. Guests at Hilton Colón may choose from five restaurants serving both local and international cuisine, then savor an afterdinner cocktail at one of the three bars. During the day, relax and unwind by the pool, pamper yourself in a state-of-the-art health club and spa, try your hand in the casino or shop the hotel’s gallery of stores.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

Argentina, Chile & Brazil South America’s southernmost countries captivate with an alluring mix of cosmopolitan verve, striking and breathtakingly diverse landscapes and a hospitality all their own. Only us reveal Argentina, Chile and Brazil at their most authentic. Our deep-rooted connections in the region means we have access to experiences only available to a select few. What’s more, our local presence — with offices in Santiago and Buenos Aires — means you travel in comfort and with peace of mind. ARGENTINA

Combine colossal glaciers, mighty waterfalls and wide-open pampas (plains). Add sensuous tango, tantalizing Malbec wine and a dash of European flair. This is Argentina, a mélange of elements that surprises

and delights even the most seasoned traveller. Discover Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires, a modern metropolis buzzing with energy and European panache. Stroll through neighborhoods such as historic San Telmo and fashionforward Palermo, and lose yourself in the fascinating Recoleta Cemetery, Eva Peron’s final resting place. West of Buenos Aires is Mendoza, the country’s famous wine region. Gain access to private vineyards for a taste of Argentina’s premium wines. Journey north to witness powerful Iguassu Falls, more than 275 cascades plunging down verdant cliffs. Travel to Bariloche, Argentina’s “Little Switzerland,” and experience the Alpine charm of this pocket of Patagonia. Venture deeper

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

into Patagonia and behold natural splendors such as the dazzling Perito Moreno Glacier. CHILE & EASTER ISLAND

Chile is a playground for lovers of the great outdoors, a country blessed with endless deserts, ancient volcanoes, emerald lakes and the magnificent Andes as backdrop wherever you travel. In Chile’s Patagonia, thousand-year-old ice fields meet native forests and the Andes Mountains disappear into the Atlantic. Experience the tranquility of Torres del Paine National Park from your perch in luxury seaside lodges, or embark on exciting expeditions, such as a wildlife cruise to Cape Horn. In Chile’s Lake District, set out on a photo safari to the snow-capped Osorno Volcano, visit quaint villages

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and raft down the rushing rapids. Or opt instead to explore the Atacama Desert, the driest place on earth. Bookend the Chile journey with a visit to cosmopolitan Santiago and mystifying Easter Island. Located some 2,500 miles west of the mainland, Easter Island is a world unto itself, more Polynesian than Chilean thanks to its mysterious moai statues staring out to sea. BRAZIL Cross to South America’s Atlantic coast to Brazil and discover an enticing mix of European, African and Indian influences. The breathtaking Iguassu Falls shares the spotlight with Argentina, but Rio de Janeiro shines in its own right with dazzling beaches, stellar nightlife and beguiling natural landmarks.

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HIGHLIGHTS Argentina: Treat your palate to the full range of Argentina’s wines when you exclusively tour multiple wineries in Mendoza Chile: Discover local cuisine when you spend a day with a chef, who shops for ingredients and prepares a meal with you Chile: Alongside a specialized guide, discover the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art before it opens to the public Brazil: Lodge in the shadows of the magnificent Iguassu Falls

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ARGENTINA TIME DIFFERENCE: EST plus 2 hours VISAS: No visa required for U.S. passport holders; however, an Argentina Reciprocity Fee is collected upon arrival. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: A yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travel to Iguassu Falls. No vaccinations are required when you travel directly from North America.

CHILE TIME DIFFERENCE: EST plus 1 hour VISAS: No visa required for U.S. passport holders; however, a Chile Reciprocity Fee is collected upon arrival. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: No vaccinations required when you travel directly from North America.

BRAZIL TIME DIFFERENCE: EST plus 0 – 4 hours,

depending on the region VISAS: Visa required for U.S. passport holders.

Patagonia: Strap on your crampons and walk the face of the Perito Moreno Glacier

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: A yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travel to Iguassu Falls. No vaccinations are required when you travel directly from North America.

Health and visa requirements are subject to change.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

DISCOVERY SERIES

Argentina & Chile: Across the Continent A Discovery Journey Through Argentina & Chile A tranquil scene at the stately La Moneda Palace in Santiago

12 Days

Explore the most splendid treasures of Argentina and Chile on this comprehensive Discovery journey. In spectacular Argentina, take in a sultry tango show in Buenos Aires and visit massive wine cellars in Mendoza. Then fly to the Pacific coastline for a taste of Chile’s charms, including a day with a local chef in Santiago. End your adventure in the striking landscapes of the stark, remote Atacama Desert.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

DAY 1:

USA or Canada/ Buenos Aires, Argentina

Depart on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s dazzling, cosmopolitan capital. DAY 2:

Buenos Aires

Arrive in Buenos Aires and embark on a brief walking tour. The evening is at leisure for you to explore this romantic city of wide boulevards and Europeanstyle buildings on your own. DAY 3:

Buenos Aires

Venture on a tour of Buenos Aires, visiting its most significant sites, including the Plaza de Mayo, the stately Casa Rosada, the Cabildo and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Swing by the city’s many neighborhoods, including

the old quarters of San Telmo; Palermo’s lovely parks; La Boca and its vibrantly hued buildings, backdrop to one of the world’s most renowned soccer teams; and the tranquil Recoleta Cemetery. Discover the latter with a local historian, who unveils the stories and secrets of the architecturally significant mausoleums and statues lining the winding lanes. Your afternoon is at leisure. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and tango show in the venue where Carlos Gardel, the pioneering tango singer, often performed. DAY4:

Buenos Aires/Mendoza

Depart this morning to Mendoza, Argentina’s famous wine-producing region. The province of Mendoza

sits on the foothills of the Argentine Andes, making for a dry climate with cool nights and hot days — perfect conditions for cultivating Malbec and European varietals. Take a tour of Mendoza City, marveling at its wide, tree-lined streets and oldworld plazas. DAY 5:

Enhance Your Journey with an Extension

IGUASSU FALLS (3 days) Experience the roar of 275 cascades as you [`jZfm\i k_\ ]Xccj ]ifd Yfk_ k_\ 9iXq`c`Xe Xe[ Argentine sides.

Mendoza

Spend the day in the lush Uco Valley to explore some of the area’s best wineries and vineyards. Visit Salentein Winery, one of the pioneers in Argentina’s wine industry. Pause at Killka, the ultra-modern, on-site museum that features contemporary Argentine and Dutch art. Continue to Andeluna Cellar, where you sample local vinos and cuisine during a gourmet lunch. Savor Andeluna’s prized Malbecs and tour the immaculate grounds. DAY 6:

Mendoza/Santiago, Chile

This morning, fly to Santiago, Chile’s sophisticated capital. Set off on a tour of downtown, exploring the city’s older quarters on foot. Visit the La Moneda Palace and the Plaza de Armas. Drive up to San Cristobal Hill for panoramic views of the city and imposing Andes on the horizon. DAY 7:

Santiago

Kick off a gastronomic adventure this morning alongside local chef Maria Jose Neut. Pass local neighborhoods such as Bellavista, El Bosque and Borderio en route to a local market. Learn to pick out the freshest local ingredients alongside chef Maria Jose, ducking into stalls bursting with colors and aromas. Then return to the chef ’s home, where with your help she prepares a seasonal gourmet meal of the day’s finds. After lunch, the rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore Santiago on your own. DAY 8:

EASTER ISLAND (5 days) Come face to face with the mysterious moai jkXkl\j Xe[ i`[\ _fij\YXZb kf X mfcZXef `e this primordial island.

Santiago/Calama/San Pedro de Atacama

Fly to Calama, the gateway to the desolate, stunning Atacama Desert. You are met and transferred to your hotel in the heart of San Pedro de Atacama, a picturesque desert town with an artistic, bohemian vibe and charming adobe buildings. DAYS 9–10:

San Pedro de Atacama

Enjoy two full days at leisure at your rustic-chic hotel. Activities abound, including daily excursions by four-wheel-drive vehicle to the highland lagoons of Miscanti and Miùiques, the Salar de Tara salt pans or the Tatio Geyser. Learn about local folklore and archaeology on tours to the Padre Le Peige Museum or the Rio Grande petroglyphs. Nature lovers can walk, hike or bike amid some of the world’s most surreal landscapes, including the Moon Valley or the Sejas Lagoons, or lush settings, such as the sprawling Jeres Valley. You may also do as little as you please at your hotel, lounging poolside or indulging in a treatment at the soothing spa. DAYS 11–12:

San Pedro de Atacama/Santiago/ USA or Canada

After a morning at leisure, depart for Santiago, where an A&K representative assists you with check-in for your overnight flight home. Day 11: B

OVERVIEW: › () [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ 9l\efj 8`i\j# D \e[fqX# J Xek`X^f# J Xe Pedro de Atacama and the Atacama Desert ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › <ogcfi\ k_\ effbj Xe[ ZiXee`\j f] cXYpi`ek_`e\ I \Zfc\kX Cemetery alongside an expert art historian, learning the jkfi`\j Xe[ j\Zi\kj f] 9l\efj 8`i\jÊ \c`k\# Xcc Yli`\[ _\i\ › Ki\Xk pfli gXcXk\ kf k_\ ]lcc iXe^\ f] 8i^\ek`eXÊj n`e\j when you exclusively tour multiple wineries, cellars and vineyards in Mendoza › L gfe Xii`mXc `e :_`c\# Yi\\q\ k_ifl^_ `dd`^iXk`fe Xe[ customs with VIP assistance at the airport › ;`jZfm\i fe\ f] k_\ Y\jk$b\gk Zlc`eXip j\Zi\kj `e J flk_ America — Chilean cuisine — when you spend a day with a local chef, who shops for ingredients and prepares a meal with you

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DISCOVERY SERIES

Wonders of Chile, Argentina & Brazil A Discovery Journey Through Latin America 8Yi\Xk_kXb`e^ m`\n f] k_\ d`^_kp @^lXjjl =Xccj

14 Days

=ifd : _`c\Êj mfcZXef$jkl[ [ \[ southlands to Argentina’s scenic “Little Switzerland” to the thundering Iguassu Falls and electrifying Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, experience South America’s dazzling diversity on this ;`jZfm\ip aflie\p% J Xmfi k_\ Y\jk of each country as you explore sophisticated cities as well as majestic spectacles of nature, enjoying privileged access to the people and places that make them unique.

DAYS 1–2:

USA or Canada/ Santiago, Chile

DAY 4:

Depart by overnight flight to Santiago and transfer to your hotel. Your afternoon is at leisure. Tonight, gather with your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner.

Fly to Puerto Montt for views of majestic volcanoes. Take a scenic journey to the Petrohue Rapids, one of Chile’s most breathtaking glacial rivers. Walk amid spectacular scenery of ancient forests, waterfalls and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Once you arrive at the rapids, marvel at the sight of inky-green waters crashing through lava channels formed after the 1850 eruption of the Osorno Volcano. Your evening is at leisure.

DAY 3:

Santiago

Join a specialized guide at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art for a private tour. With over 700 exhibits, this impressive museum hosts the country’s most important collection of pre-Hispanic artwork. Afterward, visit La Moneda Palace and the central Plaza de Armas on a city tour.

Santiago/Puerto Montt/ Puerto Varas

DAY 5: Lake District/ Bariloche, Argentina

Cross the Andes, privately driving along the shores of Frutillar, a charming, L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

Enhance Your Journey with an Extension

German-style town. Passing through some of the most pristine scenery in South America, arrive at Villa La Angostura for lunch. Board your vessel on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi and sail to the native forest of Bosque Los Arrayanes. Continue by catamaran and sail to Puerto PaĂąuelos, arriving in picturesque Bariloche in the evening. DAY 6:

EASTER ISLAND (5 days) Come face to face with the mysterious moai jkXkl\j Xe[ i`[\ _fij\YXZb kf X mfcZXef `e this primordial island.

Bariloche

Explore Bariloche, Argentina’s “Little Switzerland,� famous for its Alpine setting. Bariloche’s European roots run deep; many local families immigrated here from Germany, Switzerland and northern Italy. Visit Llao Llao Peninsula and Lopez Bay, and take a ride on the Cerro Campanario chairlift for spectacular views.

DAY 7:

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Bariloche/Buenos Aires

Your morning is at leisure. This afternoon, fly to Buenos Aires and check into your hotel neighborhood. DAY 8:

Buenos Aires

Today, embark on a tour of Buenos Aires. Set off on a behindthe-scenes tour of the Teatro Colon, considered one of the five best venues in the world for opera due to its stellar acoustics. Wander through the Recoleta Cemetery where the elite of Buenos Aires have been laid to rest. See the memorial dedicated to Eva Perón, Argentina’s beloved First Lady who left behind a legacy of social justice that remains a half-century after her death. DAY 9:

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Buenos Aires

The day is at leisure to explore Buenos Aires on your own. This evening, enjoy seating at Esquina Carlos Gardel, an esteemed tango venue, for a dinner and show. DAY 10:

Buenos Aires/Iguassu Falls

Fly to Iguassu Falls, straddling Brazil and Argentina. The 275 cascades spread across a gulf of nearly two miles. Explore the Argentine side of the park to walk the trails above and along the falls. Then, board a train to “Devil’s Throat,� where you can walk out onto a catwalk that extends 1,200 yards over the tropical basin of the falls. DAY 11:

Iguassu Falls/Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The Brazilian side of the falls offers spectacular views. Set out on an escorted walking tour, getting as close as an arm’s reach away from the cascades. After lunch, fly to Rio de Janeiro. DAY 12:

Rio de Janeiro

Visit Rio’s landmark statue, Christ the Redeemer, overlooking the city from the heights of Corcovado Mountain. Continue to the Santa Teresa area, known for its panoramic views and classic trolley car. After lunch, stop by Sugar Loaf Mountain. DAYS 13–14:

Rio de Janeiro/USA or Canada

OVERVIEW: › (+ [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ J Xek`X^f# G l\ikf D fekk# G l\ikf M XiXj# Chilean Lake District, Bariloche, Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls and Rio de Janeiro

ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › J Xmfi fe\ f] :_`c\ĂŠj dfjk i\efne\[ \ogfikj Æ `kj \ohl`j`k\ wines— during a private visit to De Martino vineyard › J _Xm\ k`d\ fø pfli aflie\p Xe[ \eafp X jki\jj$]i\\# j`e^c\$[Xp Yfi[\i Zifjj`e^ n`k_ k_\ 8e[\j :ifjj`e^# travelling in spacious, private motor vehicles that provide lefYjkilZk\[ m`\nj f] k_\ jklee`e^ dflekX`e jZ\e\ip › <eafp X Y\_`e[$k_\$jZ\e\j kfli f] k_\ c\^\e[Xip K\Xkif :fcfe# fe\ f] k_\ nfic[ĂŠj Y\jk fg\iX _flj\j › J kXp `e X =Xccj M `\n iffd Xk k_\ J _\iXkfe @^lXqÂ’ I \jfik & Spa and gaze at the spectacular Iguassu Falls from the comfort of your very own room

Today you are free to explore this vibrant city on your own. In the evening, board your overnight homebound flight. Arrive in the USA or Canada the next day. Day 13: B

=F I

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

J @>E 8KL I < SERIES

Signature Patagonia 8 G i\$8iiXe^\[ @e[\g\e[\ek Aflie\p n`k_ CfZXc >l`[\j K_\ Yi\Xk_kXb`e^ jZ\e\ip e\Xi G l\ikf E XkXc\j

15 Days

M \ekli\ `ekf k_\ Yi\Xk_kXb`e^ wilderness of Patagonia on this independent journey. Begin in the Argentine Patagonia, exploring it fe cXe[ Xe[ Yp nXk\i fe YfXi[ MV ‘Stella Australis.’ Spend k_i\\ e`^_kj Zil`j`e^ kf n`c[c`]\$ Ócc\[ :Xg\ ?fie Xe[ D X^[Xc\eX Island. Then visit the region on the Chilean side, exploring Torres [\c G X`e\ Yp m\_`Zc\# Q f[`XZ YfXkj Xe[ fe _fij\YXZb%

DAYS 1–2:

USA or Canada/ Buenos Aires, Argentina

Depart by overnight flight to Buenos Aires and transfer to your hotel; early check-in is guaranteed on arrival. Elegant and cosmopolitan, Buenos Aires retains some uniquely Argentine attributes, including tango bars and overflowing kiosks. Join your guide to see the most important landmarks: the Casa Rosada, Cabildo, Metropolitan Cathedral and Plaza de Mayo, a key spot in Argentine political life.

DAY 3:

Buenos Aires

Explore the city on your own during the day. This evening’s dinner and tango show are in the VIP section at the L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

elegant Esquina Carlos Gardel in the Abasto neighborhood, where Gardel used to sing every night. DAY 4:

Buenos Aires/Ushuaia

Continue south to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Embark on a tour of this former penal colony turned busy port before boarding your adventure cruiser and setting sail. MV ‘Stella Australis’ B D DAYS 5–6:

Patagonia

Cruise to Cape Horn, where the Atlantic meets the Pacific, and see the spectacular “Avenue of Glaciers” and the Strait of Magellan. Daily programs may change depending on weather conditions, but wildlife viewing is exceptional. Your

on-board lecturers present informal discussions on the flora, fauna and local history. You also have the opportunity to go by Zodiac to solitary beaches for an adventurous trek on land. MV ‘Stella Australis’ B L D DAY 7:

Patagonia/Punta Arenas, Chile/Puerto Natales

Stop at Magdalena Island, home to an enormous penguin colony, and walk to the lighthouse that guided sailors passing through the Straits of Magellan. Disembark in Punta Arenas and take a tour of this southern city. DAYS 8–10:

Patagonia/Torres del Paine National Park

Spend three full days exploring Torres del Paine National Park in the heart of Patagonia. The park is one of South America’s newest nature reserve and boasts a stunning array of mountains, glaciers, lakes and forest. As a centerpiece of the rugged region, the hallmark granite cuernos (horns) and torres (towers) thrust abruptly skyward from the flat pampa. At their feet, turquoise, emerald and aquamarine lakes provide the perfect contrast. Explore by vehicle; on horseback with trails providing access to places unreachable by car; by boat, with trips across Lake Grey to its namesake glacier; on Zodiac boat rides down the Serrano River; and on foot, with treks ranging from easy walks to much more extensive explorations. DAY 11:

Punta Arenas/Puerto Montt/Puerto Varas

Return to Punta Arenas airport and fly to Puerto Montt, the gateway city to Western Patagonia. Note its European architecture, with shingles, high-pitched roofs and ornate balconies that speak to Puerto Montt’s German influences. Enjoy a brief tour of the city en route to your hotel. DAY 12:

Puerto Varas/Bariloche

Travel overland through the Chilean Lake District, absorbing the spectacular scenery of deep blue mountain lakes, snowcapped volcanoes and ancient forests. Stop by historic Frutillar, a German-style town, en route to the Chile-Argentina border. Cross into Argentina and to the quaint town of Villa La Angostura, where you enjoy lunch overlooking the Correntoso River. Afterward, board a vessel and travel through Mansa Bay to the Arrayanes Forest. Re-board a catamaran that takes you to Puerto PaĂąuelos and your hotel, located in the heart of postcardperfect Bariloche. DAY 13:

Bariloche

Explore “Little Switzerland,� as Bariloche is often called, on a tour of the Llao Llao Peninsula, Lopez Bay and Cerro Campanario, reached by chairlift. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore this beautiful area. DAYS 14–15:

Bariloche/Buenos Aires/USA or Canada

In the afternoon, fly back to Buenos Aires, where you board your overnight flight home. Day 14: B L NOTE: This program contains some active elements

MV ‘Stella Australis’ approaches Cape Horn, home to Magellanic penguin

OVERVIEW: › (, [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ 9l\efj 8`i\j# L j_lX`X# G XkX^fe`X# G lekX Arenas, Puerto Natales, Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas and Bariloche ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › I \jk Xk k_\ Y\^`ee`e^ f] pfli aflie\p k_Xebj kf `dd\[`Xk\ _fk\c Z_\Zb$`e `e 9l\efj 8`i\j › J `k Xk X M @G kXYc\ [li`e^ X [`ee\i Xe[ kXe^f j_fn `e 9l\efj Aires and experience Argentina’s renowned dance from up close › ;\cm\ [\\g `ekf G XkX^fe`X fe k_\ e\n D M ÉJ k\ccX 8ljkiXc`j#Ê Zil`j`e^ k_ifl^_ ^cXZ`Xc YXpj# \eZflek\i`e^ iXi\ n`c[c`]\ Xe[ [`j\dYXib`e^ `e i\dfk\ cfZXc\j › @e G XkX^fe`X# cf[^\ \`k_\i n`k_`e Kfii\j [\c G X`e\ E Xk`feXc Park, for unsurpassed access to the great outdoors, or in the _\Xik f] e\XiYp G l\ikf E XkXc\j ]fi X ^c`dgj\ Xk cfZXc c`]\ › J Xm\ k`d\ n`k_ k_\ 8e[\j :ifjj`e^# X j`e^c\$ [Xp# jki\jj$]i\\ Yfi[\i Zifjj`e^ n_\i\ pfl kiXm\c `e Zfd]fikXYc\# gi`mXk\ dfkfi m\_`Zc\j k_Xk gifm`[\ uninterrupted views of Patagonia’s legendary landscapes

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

J @>E 8KL I < SERIES

Signature Argentina 8 G i\$8iiXe^\[ @e[\g\e[\ek Aflie\p n`k_ CfZXc >l`[\j KXe^f [XeZ\ij j_fn fø k_\`i jk\gj fe k_\ jki\\kj f] CX9fZX# 9l\efj 8`i\j

12 Days

From the fiery tango to the icy crags of the Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina is a land of contrasts. Experience this country’s many facets on this comprehensive Signature journey that whisks pfl ]ifd k_\ \c\^Xek Yflc\mXi[j Xe[ kXe^f YXcciffdj f] 8i^\ek`eX and magnificent cascades of the @^lXjjl =Xccj kf k_\ 8cg`e\$c`b\ `[pcc of Bariloche and the wilds of Patagonia.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

DAYS 1–2:

USA or Canada/ Buenos Aires, Argentina

Board an overnight flight to Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires. After settling in to your hotel, embark on an orientation tour of the surrounding area with your guide.

DAY 3:

hued buildings and the renowned Boca Juniors soccer team; and Recoleta Cemetery, the final resting place of Eva Perón. This evening transfer to Café de los Angelitos for a tango lesson, where you learn basic steps of this passionate dance born in Buenos Aires. Afterward, pick up more pointers from the pros during a dinner and tango show.

Buenos Aires

Visit the many landmarks of Buenos Aires, including the Plaza de Mayo, Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace) and the Cabildo. Stroll the lovely parks and gardens of Palermo; the charming quarters of San Telmo, birthplace of the tango; the bustling banking and business center; the working-class barrio of La Boca, home to vibrantly

DAY 4:

Buenos Aires/ Iguassu Falls, Brazil

Fly to Iguassu Falls and visit the Brazilian side of the spectacular waters. The falls are one of the most impressive sights in the world, with a breathtaking 275 cascades that spread across a gulf of nearly two miles. They are located in

the verdant Iguassu National Park, a sprawling forest home to wildlife such as macaw, toucan, monkey and crocodile. DAY 5:

Enhance Your Journey with an Extension

Iguassu Falls

ESTANCIA EXPERIENCE (4 days) Experience gaucho c`]\jkpc\ Xk X :fi[fYX ranch, playing polo and making authentic YXiY\Zl\%

Today, the thrill of the falls continues when you view different vistas from the Argentine side. Walk above the falls through paths surrounded by tropical flora, butterflies and exotic birds. Venture onto a catwalk that extends 3,600 feet over Devil’s Throat, a roiling cataract that marks the border between Argentina and Brazil. DAY 6:

Iguassu Falls/Bariloche, Argentina

This morning, fly to Bariloche, the “Little Switzerland� of Argentina. Continue to your lodge, your home for the next three days. DAY 7:

Bariloche

This morning, explore Bariloche and view some of the most attractive scenery in Argentina, a panoply of lush hills, snowtopped peaks and lakes reflecting a crisp blue sky. Visit the Llao Llao Peninsula and Lopez Bay and ride the Cerro Campanario chairlift, enjoying incredible views of the valley below. Spend the afternoon at leisure. DAY 8:

Over 200 cascades make up the mighty Iguassu Falls

Bariloche

You are at leisure today to partake in the many activities offered by your resort, located in a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Try a round of golf at Patagonia’s best 18-hole course, or explore the pastoral surroundings with your choice of activities, including archery, mountain biking, trekking, kayaking, windsurfing, canoeing rafting, fishing or horseback riding. DAY 9:

Bariloche/El Calafate

Spend a relaxing morning at the hotel before departing to the airport to board a flight to El Calafate, gateway to the majestic world of glaciers. El Calafate is a rustic, charming town with well-kept gardens and pretty homes set before a stunning Patagonian backdrop. DAY 10:

El Calafate

Enjoy a full day at Perito Moreno Glacier, considered by many to be the most beautiful in the world. Your day includes trekking over the incredible glacier with your expert guide. Later, sail close to the glacier in the hopes of seeing a calving. DAY 11:

El Calafate/Buenos Aires

After breakfast, depart for Buenos Aires to connect to your international flight this evening. B DAY 12:

USA or Canada

Arrive in the USA or Canada. NOTE: This program contains some active elements

OVERVIEW: › () [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ 9l\efj 8`i\j# @^lXjjl =Xccj# 9Xi`cfZ_\ Xe[ El Calafate ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › I \jk Xk pfli aflie\pÊj jkXik k_Xebj kf `dd\[`Xk\ _fk\c Z_\Zb$`e `e 9l\efj 8`i\j › >\k `e jk\g n`k_ k_\ Zlckli\ f] 9l\efj 8`i\j n`k_ X kXe^f lesson; then, witness the moves you learned in class from pfli M @G kXYc\ Xk X jg`i`k\[ [`ee\i Xe[ kXe^f j_fn › J kXp `e ?fk\c ;Xj : XkXiXkXj# cfZXk\[ X knf$d`elk\ nXcb from the mighty cascades of the Iguassu Falls › N Xcb fe k_\ G \i`kf D fi\ef >cXZ`\i Xe[ jX`c Xifle[ `k ]fi diverse perspectives of this immense monument of nature L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L à PA G O S

J @>E 8KL I < SERIES

Signature Chile 8 G i\$8iiXe^\[ @e[\g\e[\ek Aflie\p n`k_ CfZXc >l`[\j The stunning and remote landscape of Torres del Paine

12 Days

:_`c\ \dYf[`\j k_\ ^i\Xk flk[ffij# YfXjk`e^ XnXi[$n`ee`e^ m`e\pXi[j k_Xk YcXeb\k ifcc`e^ _`ccj# hlX`ek European settlements and a portion of Patagonia packed with emerald lakes, ancient volcanoes and monumental rock formations. On this Signature journey, explore the ZflekipÊj `eZi\[ `Y c\ n`c[ \ie\jj and marvel at its cosmopolitan Z`k`\j# n_\i\ fc[ $ nfic[ j\ej`Y`c`k`\j d`e^c\ n`k_ gi\$ Hispanic influences.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

DAYS 1–2:

Fly overnight to Santiago and transfer to your hotel. A city tour includes the Cathedral, La Moneda Palace and the Plaza de Armas. Enjoy a visit to the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, home to more than 700 exhibits, led by a specialized guide. Stop in Barrio Brasil, once the residential center of Santiago’s well-to-do and now the city’s artistic enclave. Afterward, visit San Cristobal Hill for incredible city views.

by a steep climb or funicular railway. The city’s historic quarter was recently named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Chilean Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda’s residence, La Sebastiana. The home — which houses an extensive library — is packed with the eccentric genius’ keepsakes from his many trips abroad. Continue up the coast to Viña del Mar, a popular beach town for locals. On your return trip to Santiago, stop in the Casablanca Valley for a sunset wine tasting and cocktail Winery.

DAY 3: Santiago/Wine Country/ Santiago

DAY 4:

Drive to picturesque Valparaíso, famous for its labyrinthine hills, covered with colorful old houses and accessible only

Board a morning flight to Puerto Montt in the Lake District. During an

USA or Canada/ Santiago, Chile

Santiago/Chilean Lake District

orientation tour of this former German settlement, stop to look for bargains at the Angelmo handicraft market, and watch for the city’s unique architecture of high-pitched roofs and ornate balconies. Continue to Puerto Varas and your hotel. After lunch, visit the town and gaze across the waters of the Llanquihue to the mighty Osorno Volcano. Pause in historic Frutillar to visit the Pioneers Museum, featuring a collection of 19th-century antiques from various immigrant German families around the area. Pause for a snack at the charming Lavanda Casa de Te, an exclusive tea room surrounded by lavender fields. DAY 5:

Enhance Your Journey with an Extension

EASTER ISLAND (5 days) Come face to face with the mysterious moai jkXkl\j Xe[ i`[\ _fij\YXZb kf X mfcZXef `e this primordial island.

Chilean Lake District

The Chilean Lake District is a nature lover’s paradise. Raft through Class III rapids, take a canopy tour, trek in Chile’s oldest national park or go on a photo safari to the Osorno Volcano. This afternoon, visit the Petrohue rapids, one of Chile’s most beautiful glacial rivers, surrounded by a panorama of ancient forests, waterfalls, mountains and volcanoes. DAY 6:

Puerto Montt/Punta Arenas/Torres del Paine National Park

Religious scenes rendered on the ceilings of Santiago’s Cathedral

Once a booming port city, Punta Arenas lost prominence with the opening of the Panama Canal. From here, drive to Torres del Paine National Park and settle into your elegantly rustic lodge. Your guide explains the activity options available over the next few days. DAYS 7–9:

Torres del Paine National Park

Over the next few days, you are free to choose from a variety of activities available at your lodge and explore the area’s magnificent beauty by vehicle, on horseback, by boat and on foot. DAY 10:

Torres del Paine National Park/Punta Arenas/ Santiago/Maipo Wine Valley Drive to Punta Arenas and fly back to Santiago. Continue to the Santa Rita vineyard. DAY 11:

Maipo Wine Valley/Santiago

Santa Rita Winery was founded in 1880 by prominent entrepreneur Domingo Fernandez Concha, who built the houses, chapel and winery on the rich soil of the River Maipo Valley. Tour Santa Rita’s vineyards, which have yielded award-winning, internationally renowned wines. Reflect on your journey in the estate’s manicured gardens, or visit the on-site Museo Andino, housing a magnificent collection of archaeological relics from the region’s pre-Columbian civilizations. Drive back to Santiago to connect to your international flight this evening. DAY 12:

USA or Canada

Arrive in the USA or Canada. NOTE: This program contains some active elements

OVERVIEW: › () [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ J Xek`X^f# :_`c\Xe N `e\ :flekip# :_`c\Xe Lake District, Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas, Punta Arenas and Torres del Paine National Park ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › >X`e Xe \og\ikĂŠj g\ijg\Zk`m\ Yp kfli`e^ k_\ D lj\ld f] G i\$:fcldY`Xe 8ik Xcfe^j`[\ X jg\Z`Xc`q\[ ^l`[\ › >c`dgj\ k_\ c`]\ f] :_`c\Xe E fY\c G i`q\$n`ee`e^ gf\k G XYcf E \il[X Xj pfl nXcb k_\ _Xccj f] _`j M XgXiXˆjf _fd\ › <og\i`\eZ\ k_\ \jj\eZ\ f] :_`c\Xe N `e\ :flekip n`k_ X sunset wine tasting at Casas del Bosque Winery › J kXp Xk <ogcfiX G XkX^fe`X Ă… ?fk\c J Xckf :_`Zf >fc[ fi CXj Kfii\j G XkX^fe`X J `cm\i # e\jkc\[ `ej`[\ Kfii\j [\c Paine National Park, for easy access to striking landscapes Xe[ XZk`m`k`\j jlZ_ Xj _fij\YXZb i`[`e^ Xe[ _`b`e^

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

J @>E 8KL I < SERIES

Signature Brazil 8 G i\$8iiXe^\[ @e[\g\e[\ek Aflie\p n`k_ CfZXc >l`[\j The quintessential view of Rio de Janeiro from Corcovado Mountain

11 Days

9iXq`c `j Y `^ fe \m\ipk_`e^ Æ hospitality, culture, sand, sun. On this independent journey, savor k_\ ]lcc Yi\X[k_ f] k_`j `ekfo`ZXk`e^ destination, exploring Rio de Janeiro ]ifd k_\ Yfkkfd lg n_`c\ pfl cf[^\ Y\XZ_j`[ \ Xe[ m`j`k k_\ : _i`jk the Redeemer statue. Then fly to Iguassu to experience the k_le[\iflj nXk\i]Xccj ]ifd Yfk_ Brazil and Argentina. Finish in colonial Salvador, the cultural heart of the country.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

DAY 1:

USA or Canada/ Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

unchanged since opening in 1894.

Depart on an overnight flight to Rio de Janeiro, a sparkling metropolis where sun and sand meet a unique, vivacious culture and legendary hospitality.

DAY 3:

DAY 2:

Rio de Janeiro

Arrive in Rio this morning and check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, explore Rio’s history as you set out to discover the oldest part of town. View buildings erected in the 16th and 17th century, when Brazil was a Portuguese colony, and see other city landmarks, including the Cathedral at Lapa Arches, Casa Franca-Brasil and Marechal Floriano Square. Get a taste of old-world Brazil by pausing for coffee at Confeitaria Colombo Restaurant, with an interior

Rio de Janeiro

Today, travel to the heights of Corcovado (Hunchback) Mountain. Take in a spectacular view of Rio sprawled out below as you stand next to the colossal Christ the Redeemer statue, towering 120 feet above. Continue to the Santa Teresa neighborhood, one of the city’s most picturesque, and enjoy a barbecue lunch at a local restaurant. Wrap up the day with a visit to Sugar Loaf Mountain for panoramic views of Guanabara Bay and Rio’s famous sandy beaches. DAY 4:

Rio de Janeiro

Your day is at leisure today to enjoy this fascinating city or your hotel amenities.

Your hotel is located right on the beach, for easy access to one of the best spots in Rio for people-watching and enjoying the sun. DAY 5:

Rio de Janeiro/Iguassu Falls

Depart Rio this morning for Iguassu Falls, which straddles the border of Brazil and Argentina. Venture on a walking tour of the Brazilian side of the magnificent waterfalls, viewing the flora and fauna that thrive around Iguassu. Enjoy lunch overlooking this natural wonder, the point where the Iguassu River tumbles over the edges of the Parana Plateau after flowing through Brazil. You may opt to take a helicopter flight over the falls to marvel at its full splendor. DAY 6:

Enhance Your Journey with an Extension

BRAZIL BEACH ESCAPE (5 days) Get away from it all in southern Brazil’s Y\XZ_\j# cf[^`e^ `e k_\ j\Zcl[\[ G fekX ;fj Ganchos resort.

Iguassu Falls

After breakfast, travel overland and cross the border into the Argentine side of the falls. Set out on a catwalk through a lush rainforest and over Devil’s Throat, the largest of the waterfalls. Return to the Brazilian side, where the afternoon is at leisure. DAY 7:

Iguassu Falls/Salvador

This morning, fly to Salvador, Brazil’s oldest city and one of the most beautiful and interesting in the country. Brazilians have flocked to Salvador, which is often referred to as “Bahia,� for years to bask in its bright beaches, exceptional cuisine, musical heritage and easygoing attitude. After settling in at your hotel, discover this remarkable city on your own. DAY 8:

An aerial perspective of the awesome Iguassu Falls

Salvador

Set off this morning for a city tour that includes Salvador’s most significant sites, including the São Francisco Church, with its gold-leaf Baroque interior, and Pelourinho, the city’s historic center, deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its colonial-era, pastel-colored architecture. This evening, dine at a traditional Bahian restaurant. Afterward, discover the essence of Salvador during a folkloric show that showcases the country’s unique Afro-Brazilian culture and musical heritage. DAY 9:

Salvador/Cachoeira/Salvador

Following breakfast, drive to Cachoeira, passing sugarcane, tobacco and cocoa plantations. The charming colonial town of Cachoeira was built in the mid-17th and 18th centuries, during the peak of Brazil’s sugarcane economy. It retains fine examples of Baroque residences with Portuguese tile-covered façades and wrought-iron balconies of intricate beauty. In this town, you also see examples of Brazil’s African roots, learning about candomble (voodoo) and terreiros (plots of land put aside for religious ceremonies). DAY 10:

Salvador/Rio de Janeiro

Depart beautiful Salvador for Rio de Janeiro this afternoon, where later this evening, you board your homebound flight. B DAY 11:

Rio de Janeiro/USA or Canada

Arrive in USA or Canada.

OVERVIEW: › (( [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ I `f [\ AXe\`if# @^lXjjl =Xccj# J XcmX[fi Xe[ Cachoeira ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › J kXik pfli aflie\p n\cc$i\jk\[ k_Xebj kf `dd\[`Xk\ _fk\c Z_\Zb$`e lgfe pfli Xii`mXc `e I `f [\ AXe\`if › Cf[^\ `e ?fk\c ;Xj : XkXiXkXj# cfZXk\[ aljk X knf$d`elk\ nXcb ]ifd k_\ dX^e`ÓZ\ek @^lXjjl =Xccj › :_ffj\ kf kXb\ X _\c`Zfgk\i Ô`^_k fm\i k_\ @^lXjjl =Xccj ]fi X feZ\$`e$X$c`]\k`d\ g_fkf^iXg_`Z fggfikle`kp › :fek\dgcXk\ 9iXq`cÊj le`hl\ ]lj`fe f] Zlckli\j `e : XZ_f\`iX# X c`kkc\$m`j`k\[ kiX[`k`feXc kfne n`k_ iffkj k_Xk [Xk\ YXZb kf Zfcfe`Xc k`d\j L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L à PA G O S

A&K EXTENSIONS

Argentina, Chile & Brazil Extensions <ok\e[ pfli \og\i`\eZ\ n`k_ k_\j\ X[[$fe `k`e\iXi`\j% The architecturally striking Casa Lapostolle winery in Chile

CHILEAN WINE COUNTRY (3 days, visiting Colchagua Valley) DAY 1: Visit a kaleidoscope of Chile’s prestigious vineyards, sampling wines aged to

perfection throughout the scenic Colchagua Valley, a winemaking sub-region of the Rapel Valley. Your first stop is at the sensational Altaïr Winery, where you will learn the techniques employed in the creation of the two wines made here: Altaïr and Sideral. Continue to the Viu Manent vineyard, touring the impeccable grounds and savoring its Malbecs and Carmenere, for which the vineyard is known. DAY 2: After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy a horseback ride through the grape plantation surrounding your lodge. Continue with a visit to the Casa Lapostolle winery to learn about their careful winemaking process. The Marnier-Lapostolle family, founders and owners of the renowned liqueur Grand Marnier, are better known for producing spirits, but the family has been involved in wine production for generations. Continue to the Museum of Colchagua to see one of Chile’s largest and most impressive displays of paleontology, archaeology and pre-Hispanic art. DAY 3: After a leisurely breakfast, depart from your hotel to visit Viña Neyen. The grounds are the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, with their privileged location within the picturesque, horseshoe-shaped Apalta Valley. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, transfer back to Santiago. B L

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

IGUASSU FALLS (3 days, visiting Brazilian and Argentine sides of the waterfalls) DAY 1: Fly to Iguassu Falls and explore the Brazilian side for spectacular panoramic

views. The 275 breathtaking cascades span a gulf of almost two miles. Join your guide on a walking tour through the National Park of Iguassu to a catwalk that is just an arm’s reach from the falls. DAY 2: Visit the Argentine side of the park to walk the trails above and along the falls. Flowers, tropical plants, butterflies and exotic birds add to the splendor of this close encounter with Iguassu. You have the option of walking out onto a catwalk that extends 1,200 yards over the tropical basin of Devil’s Gorge. The remainder of your day is at leisure to enjoy the hotel’s amenities. DAY 3: Board your flight back to Buenos Aires. B

EASTER ISLAND (5 days) DAY 1: Cross 2,500 miles of the Pacific Ocean to arrive at Easter Island. You are

welcomed with a traditional floral collar reception. DAY 2: Stop at Rano Raraku volcano, where 95 percent of the iconic moai statues were carved. Continue to Ahu Tongariki, which holds a row of 15 moai. After a bush lunch on the beach, proceed to Vaitea. DAY 3: See stone walls in Ahu Vinapu and proceed up the Rano Kau volcano to Orongo, where cliffs are adorned with petroglyphs of the “Bird Man” rituals. DAY 4: Trek or ride horseback from Ahu Akivi to Maunga Terevaka volcano for a panoramic view, or hike to Ana te Pahu. DAY 5: On arrival in Santiago, continue with your travels. B

SALTA (6 days, visiting Salta, Cafayate and Cachi)

DAY 1: Arrive in Salta. DAY 2: Drive to Cafayate, and sample

stellar wine at one of the town’s best cellars. DAY 3: Drive to quaint Tafi del Valle. Visit the Quilmes Ruins, an impressive stepped citadel. DAY 4: Continue overland to Cachi, a picturesque town. DAY 5: Travel to Salta, marveling at the Enchanted Valley’s surreal rock formations. DAY 6: Tour charming Salta, including the Cathedral, the stoic Güemes Monument and San Lorenzo Gorge. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. B

ESTANCIA EXPERIENCE (4 days, visiting Córdoba)

BRAZIL BEACH ESCAPE (5 days, visiting Governador Celso Ramos)

DAY 1: Fly to Córdoba and check in to

DAY 1: Arrive in Florianopolis, where you

your colonial-style mansion, a working estancia with state-of-the-art technology. Amenities include a spa, majestic polo fields and stables. DAY 2: Spend the day enjoying the resort’s activities. Learn to play polo; walk on trails; take a zip-line canopy tour; or learn to prepare an authentic Argentine asado (barbecue). DAY 3: Spend another relaxing day with the activity of your choice. You may visit the Jesuit estancias in the area or play golf at one of three world-class golf courses nearby. DAY 4: Transfer to the airport for a flight back to Buenos Aires. B

are met and transferred to your luxury resort, your home for the next five days. The area is one of the best-kept secrets on the Brazilian coast, a lush, cove-studded peninsula. DAYS 2–4: Over the next few days, do as little or as much as you wish in this idyllic hideaway. Relax in your bungalow, an oasis that faces turquoise waters. Or choose one of the many optional activities, including a visit to an oyster farm, walks along deserted beaches, a visit with dolphin, diving amid colorful fish or horseback riding. DAY 5: Transfer to Florianopolis airport. B L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

TAILOR MADE

Andean Peaks & Atacama Sands A Tailor Made Journey Through Chile I \[ ifZbj Xe[ n_`k\ g\Xbj [\Óe\ k_\ [\jfcXk\ D ffe M Xcc\p

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. Chile boasts remarkable diversity in its landscapes, and on this independent journey, you see them all in dazzling array, as you travel from untamed forests to the barren, lunar landscapes of the Atacama Desert. Begin the journey by flying overnight to Santiago, tucked amid the soaring Andes and lush vineyards. Tour Chile’s capital before continuing on by plane to Temuco in the Lake District, a region known for its national parks and captivating emerald lakes. It is also the seat of Chile’s most prominent indigenous Mapuche community. Drive past snow-capped volcanoes and ancient forests to Lake Villarrica, where your hotel is located. Spend three days in the Lake District, exploring it on daily L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

adventures. Enter one of two volcanic caves open to visitors; these caves were created by successive eruptions of the Villarrica volcano. Trek in Villarrica National Park or raft on the Trancura River. Another option is exploring Pucón, Chile’s adventure capital. After taking in the Lake District’s greens and blues, fly to Calama, your gateway to the beiges and browns of the Atacama Desert. This is the world’s driest landscape; there has been no recorded precipitation for 400 years. Spend three days discovering Atacama’s striking natural environment and the sites of pre-Columbian, colonial and contemporary cultures with your private guide. You may opt to visit the Gustavo Le Paige Archaeological Museum, which

houses a collection of 2,000-year-old Indian mummies. Set out on excursions to the Moon Valley, a terrain so striking and forbidding that scientists used the site to test a prototype for a Mars rover. Also visit the surreal landscapes that encompass the steaming Tatio Geyser field and Puritama hot springs. Wind down from your adventure with a day at leisure before returning to Santiago. Explore Santiago on your own or enjoy the amenities of your hotel before flying home.

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Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. On this independent culinary journey, explore both Argentina’s and Chile’s gastronomic wonders, savoring top-notch wines and fine cuisine. Begin by flying overnight and arriving in Santiago. Discover this sophisticated city on a tour that includes the Presidential Palace, Plaza de Armas and San Cristobal Hill for superb views of the Andes. Continue to the Colchagua Wine Valley, known for its delightful Mediterranean weather and excellent terroir. Explore this beautiful region with private visits to several renowned wineries, including Viña Neyen — where you sample its top Neyen Espíritu de Apalta wine — and Viu Manent vineyard. Pay a visit to the Casa Lapostolle vineyard, where the Marnier-Lapostolle

family, founders of Grand Marnier liqueur, welcome you. The family has been involved in winemaking for generations on this very vineyard. Afterward, enjoy lunch at charming, family-run Hacienda Lolol, where you also discover the huaso (cowboy) culture firsthand, with spirited demonstrations of masterful horseback riding. Continue exploring the Colchagua region by visiting the Colchagua Museum, featuring exhibits that relay the history of the Americas from pre-history down to the present, along with Chile’s largest collection of Mapuche handicrafts. Before you fly off to Mendoza, Argentina, stop by Altaïr Winery, where your host explains techniques used to produce Altaïr and Sideral wines.

Continue to Mendoza, the epicenter of Argentina’s renowned wine industry, located on the Eastern foothills of the Andes. Spend the next couple of days visiting the area’s best wineries, including Catena Zapata, a revered producer of Malbec. Continue to the stellar Vistalba winery, and dine at Francis Mallmann 1884 Restaurante on the grounds of the historic Bodegas Escorihuela Gascon. Return today to either Santiago or Buenos Aires and connect with your overnight international flight. Arrive home the next day. ;8P (1 J Xek`X^f ;8P J )Å* 1 :fcZ_X^lX N `e\ M Xcc\p ;8P J +Å.1 D \e[fqX L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

TAILOR MADE

New World Wine & Gourmet

TAILOR MADE

The Heart of Patagonia A Tailor Made Journey Through Chile & Argentina A massive ice arch at the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. Discover Patagonia across Chile and Argentina and experience this remarkable wilderness on an independent adventure. Kick off your journey with an overnight flight to Santiago. Arrive in Chile’s capital the following day and tour this fascinating city. Set off for Cachapoal Valley for a visit and lunch at Altaïr Winery. Explore the grounds on horseback or on foot, absorbing the vistas of fertile land and mountains that surround you. Next, fly to Punta Arenas and drive to the fishing village of Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. Your two days in the region are at leisure to enjoy the activities and facilities of your luxury lodge, including guided tours of the stunning landscapes and L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

wooded forests of the park. Cross overland from Chile to El Calafate in Argentina, passing stunning mountain landscapes. El Calafate is the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, home to the awesome Perito Moreno Glacier and the Cerro Chaltén. Venture to the Perito Moreno Glacier, along the way hiking through verdant forests and enjoying panoramic views of the glacier’s white-and-aquamarine bulk. Sail to Brazo Rico and arrive at the glacier proper, where you don crampons for a trek over Perito Moreno’s ice. Afterward, cruise the waters of Lake Argentino to the Upsala and Onelli glaciers. Disembark at Onelli Bay for a gourmet picnic lunch set to this spectacular backdrop of ice sculptures.

As your journey winds down, return to Buenos Aires and discover Argentina’s capital over the next few days. Tour this beautiful city and see its dazzling architecture and cosmopolitan verve. Spend a day at leisure exploring; you may wish to walk along the tranquil streets near your hotel or shop the fashionable Palermo neighborhood. Enjoy a tango show and traditional dinner. Board your overnight international flight.

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A Tailor Made Journey Through Brazil & Argentina An elegantly carved statue at Argentina’s famous Recoleta Cemetery

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. On this independent journey, explore the best of South American powerhouses Brazil and Argentina, sweeping from sunny Rio de Janeiro and stunning Iguassu Falls to wine paradise Mendoza and exciting Buenos Aires. Kick off your explorations in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. During the first three days, warm up to Rio’s unique spirit and history with a tour of the city’s most significant sites, such as Cathedral at Lapa Arches, Corcovado Mountain (home to the towering Christ the Redeemer statue) and the neighborhood of Santa Teresa. Learn to samba alongside experts and try out your new moves at a local gafieira (dance club). Continue to Iguassu Falls, which straddles Brazil and Argentina. Take a

guided walking tour of the falls, reaching a catwalk that brings you within arm’s reach of the cascades. Take a train to Devil’s Throat, where you can walk over the tropical basin some 3,600 feet below. From Iguassu, continue to Salta. Nestled in northwestern Argentina, Salta is renowned for its gorgeous and well-preserved colonial buildings and magnificent country setting. Over the next three days, explore this place that seems to have stopped in time. Tour the city, visiting sites such as the main square and the Cathedral. Venture through the breathtaking Shell River Gorge to the remote town of Cafayate, and explore the Quilmes Ruins. Your journey then brings you to Mendoza, Argentina’s renowned wine-

producing region. Savor full-bodied vinos and privately visit the area’s best ranches, wineries and cellars. End your journey in Buenos Aires, touring sites such as the Plaza de Mayo, the Cathedral, the vibrant La Boca neighborhood and Recoleta Cemetery. Take a tango lesson and then see the pros in action during a dance and dinner show, where you sit in VIP seating. Depart on your homebound flight.

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TAILOR MADE

Best of Brazil & Argentina

TAILOR MADE

Brazilian Bounty A Tailor Made Journey Through Brazil D XZXn XYfle[ `e k_\ G XekXeXc

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. Brazil is enormous, both in geography and adventure, and this independent journey plucks the best outdoor experiences for a glimpse of the country’s natural wonders, including the magnificent Iguassu Falls and the wildlife-rich Pantanal tropical wetlands. Begin in vibrant Rio de Janeiro, where you spend the days exploring the city’s most significant landmarks, including the statue of Christ the Redeemer, the Santa Teresa area and Sugar Loaf Mountain. Enjoy a historical tour of downtown, and learn to dance the festive samba at one of Rio’s prestigious dance academies. From Rio, continue to the Brazil/ Argentina border and transfer to your hotel near the spectacular Iguassu Falls. Set out on a walking tour on the Brazilian

side to strategic overlooks at various levels for eye-opening perspectives on this natural wonder. Then depart for Iguassu’s Argentine side. Here, you visit the suspended platform at terrifying Devil’s Throat, the largest of the cascades. Later, explore the bird park, home to more than 500 bird species. Fly to Sao Paulo, the largest city in Brazil and a center for culture and commerce. Get into the spirit of this cosmopolitan hub, shopping at luxurious commercial centers, sampling diverse gastronomic fare, catching a theater performance or visiting galleries. In contrast, your next stop is Cuiabá, located in the heart of the Pantanal. Arrive and transfer to your lodge, where you can take an ecological walk through

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

the jungle and horseback ride through the woods up to the edge of the Siá Mariana Bay. In the next three days, discover this lush region through a series of outdoor pursuits, such as a nocturnal game safari to observe the tropical vegetation and a large variety of animals, including the region’s famous caiman. Canoe the Mutum River and witness wildlife at sunrise in the Pantanal. Transfer to the Cuiabá airport to connect with your overnight homebound flight.

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TAILOR MADE

Amazon Adventure A Tailor Made Journey Through Brazil A caiman lurks in the waters of the Amazon rainforest

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. Feel the electrifying pulse of Brazil when you stay in an Amazon jungle lodge, attend an African-Bahian folkloric show in colonial Salvador, stare down Devil’s Throat in Iguassu Falls and ascend Rio de Janeiro’s famous Sugar Loaf Mountain by cable car. Start off in Manaus, the capital of Brazil’s Amazonas province. Spend the next three days deep in the Amazon. Discover the captivating Anavilhanas Islands by boat and forest hike, observing Amazonian pink dolphin and spotting some of the region’s hundreds of bird species. You also learn about this fragile but important ecosystem by attending a lecture on the Amazon and Anavilhanas. Gain a deeper cultural understanding by visiting handicraft

studios in a Tiririca community. Continue to Salvador, Brazil’s first colonial capital. Explore this historic city on a tour, and discover a facet of its rich, complex culture by attending an AfricanBahian folkloric show. Venture to nearby colonial Cachoeira as well, along the way passing sprawling sugarcane, cassava root and tobacco plantations. From Salvador, jet off to fabled Rio de Janeiro. While here, visit Sugar Loaf Mountain by cable car for a panoramic view of Copacabana Beach; the Santa Cruz fortress; the statue of Christ the Redeemer; and the Chacara do Ceu Museum. Afterward, take a samba lesson at a renowned dance school and opt to show off your steps at a gafieira (nightclub). Continue to Paraty, a

colonial town south of Rio. Quaint, tiny Paraty sits right on the edge of the bay, a crisscross of tiny streets lined with whitewashed colonial houses, doors and window frames painted bright blue or yellow, and flowers and vines spilling over high garden walls. Take your time exploring this relaxing, charming town before return to Rio de Janeiro for your overnight flight home.

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HOTEL PORTFOLIO

Hotel Portfolio A selection of recommended hotels for Argentina, Chile & Brazil

=F L I J <8J F E J ?F K<C# 9L <E F J 8@I <J Buenos Aires, Argentina

ALVEAR PALACE HOTEL Buenos Aires, Argentina

Four Seasons Hotel, Buenos Aires, is widely recognized for its outstanding location in the beautiful Recoleta neighborhood, superior service and luxurious accommodations. The hotel offers 116 spacious guest rooms and 49 suites, all well-appointed in inviting contemporary furnishings. Meanwhile, the adjacent La Mansion serves up the city’s most celebrated Sunday Brunch. Rounding out the amenities are The Spa at Four Seasons and the only outdoor heated swimming pool in the area.

The elegant Alvear Palace Hotel is located in the heart of La Recoleta. Personal touches — such as butler service, Hermès de Paris toiletries and daily fresh flower and fruit basket arrangements — define your stay in this 197-room luxury hotel. The Alvear Spa offers treatments by La Prairie, and the fitness center features a wellness area and state-of-the-art fitness equipment. Dining options abound: L’Orangerie restaurant offers international cuisine, while La Bourgogne serves refined French cuisine.

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CORRENTOSO LAKE & RIVER HOTEL Villa La Angostura, Argentina

CF J :8L H L <E <J I <J F I K J G 8 Ushuaia, Argentina

Tucked inside a national park, where the Correntoso River and Lake Nahuel Huapi meet, this hotel’s idyllic setting is paradise on earth. Since 1917, Correntoso has been a historic retreat for adventurers and nature lovers. Rebuilt in 2003, it features 49 rooms decorated with fine woodwork and elegant furniture, all overlooking magnificent views. Dine on refined gourmet cuisine, indulge in a treatment from the exclusive Herbal Hamman & Spa and or relax in the heated in/out infinity pool.

Located at the shore of Beagle Channel, Los Cauquenes offers incredible views of snow-covered Andean peaks. The resort’s rustic-chic architecture blends wood accents and stone, creating a perfect harmony with its setting. Inside, the 54 guest rooms are decorated in beiges and touches of dark wood, and come equipped with flat-screen TV, deep soak tub and minibar, among other amenities. Guests experience unparalleled service and access to a restaurant, bar, indoor/outdoor pool, spa and fitness center.

LLAO LLAO HOTEL & RESORT Bariloche, Argentina

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Llao Llao is located on a hill between Nahuel Huapi and Moreno lakes. The resort features 205 rooms, some with balconies overlooking the scenery and all outfitted with comfortable furnishings. Beyond your room, find an 18-hole golf course, spa, fitness center, a heated indoor/outdoor swimming pool and a sauna. Sample fine cuisine at Los Césares restaurant, or simply sip a glass of one of Argentina’s famous wines in Bar Lago Moreno, gazing at the surroundings from the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Hotel Cumbres Patagonicas boasts remarkable views, each room opening up to views of the Osorno Volcano and Lake Llanquihue. Choose from four room types and 92 rooms, each with air conditioning, central heating and complimentary Wi-Fi, and outfitted in comfortable contemporary furnishings. After a day exploring southern Chile’s stunning natural landscapes and sights, relax at the spa or heated pool, grab a cocktail at the bar or dinner or enjoy a moment of quiet reflection in the winter garden. L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

TIERRA HOTELS Chile

LAS TORRES PATAGONIA Punta Arenas, Chile

With Tierra Atacama and Tierra Patagonia, discover two extremes in Chile, all the while experiencing exceptional personalized service. In northern Chile, ride horses, hike a volcano, relax in hot springs and enjoy a soothing massage at Tierra Atacama. The opposite end of the country is home to Tierra Patagonia, which offers incredible views and direct access to Torres del Paine National Park, local ranches and delicious cuisine, as well as a variety of spa services.

Las Torres Patagonia is just six miles from the Torres del Paine — the closest hotel to the stunning natural wonders. This privileged location makes it the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the area’s breathtaking mountains, glaciers, lakes and rivers. The hotel boasts 85 rooms and activities galore, with over 20 excursions, 150 horses, vehicles and guides to explore this amazing national park. It also offers all-inclusive programs that include transfers, eco-tourism, excursions, meals and an open bar.

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:8J 8 ?@>L <I 8J # M 8CG 8I 8ßJ F Valparaíso, Chile

The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago is located in the heart of El Golf, one of the city’s most prestigious neighborhoods. Featuring exceptional accommodations and impeccable service, guests here enjoy soothing spa services at the rooftop health and fitness center or dine at one of four distinctive hotel restaurants. Nestled between world-class skiing and warm sand beaches, upscale shopping and the city’s most renowned businesses, this hotel is a luxurious retreat in one of the world’s most intriguing destinations.

A former 1920s mansion, Casa Higueras blends modern amenities with the warmth of the past to create a nostalgic comfort. Resembling a Mediterranean villa, the hotel’s terraces offer views of the bay and the city’s hills. At the garden level, read a book in a lounge chair or take a refreshing swim in the pool. A visit to the spa, with its sauna and Jacuzzi, is a perfect place to unwind after an exciting day of sightseeing. With just 20 rooms, the property delivers a high level of personalized attention to each guest.

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INSÓC@KF 9F L K@H L < ?F K<C Búzios, Brazil Authenticity and charm combine at Insólito Hotel, making it a unique and exclusive place to stay while on Brazil’s Atlantic coast. Located on Praia da Ferradura, one of the most beautiful beaches in Búzios, the hotel has magnificent views out onto the ocean waters. The eco-friendly design of its 20 rooms blends seamlessly with the natural setting that surrounds it, immersing guests in Brazilian culture. The airy rooms are outfitted with handpicked design and landscaping objects by designer Anouk Barcat and celebrated lighting artist Maneco Quinderé, carefully handpicked by the hotel’s owner, Emanuelle Meeus de Clermont-Tonnerre. Relax in the wellness center, explore the flavors of the French-Brazilian fusion (developed by the hotel’s chef) or set off on an excursion, perhaps taking one of the boats to visit the surrounding beaches or venturing on a fishing adventure.

COPACABANA PALACE Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

HOTEL DAS CATARATAS Iguassu Falls, Brazil

Located on Copacabana Beach, this iconic hotel opened its doors in 1923. To this day, Copacabana Palace continues its tradition of luxury and service, offering 243 well-appointed guest rooms, all with views of the city’s exciting skyline, the hotel’s marvelous pool or the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy easy beach access, or lounge by the pool. The hotel also features a new lounge bar, tennis court, fitness center and spa. Dine at Hotel Cipriani Restaurant for sophisticated Italian fare, or sample the local flavor at Pérgula Restaurant.

Set within Iguassu National Park, Hotel das Cataratas boasts many opportunities to experience the falls. Enjoy exclusive access before the park opens or make the two-minute stroll in the afternoon to see the natural spectacle under a different light. The hotel features 193 rooms, including 15 suites, all decked out in Portuguesestyle décor. You can also relax poolside or in the hotel’s spa. Dine on international cuisine at Itaipú restaurant, enjoy light snacks poolside or a Brazilian barbecue dinner from Ipê Grill. L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

Central America & Mexico Mexico and Central America are a short distance from North America — but a world apart in language, culture and landscapes. Let us unveil this unique region of the Americas at its most authentic with expert guides and top-notch service. COSTA RICA Costa Rica means “rich coast,” and nothing could ring truer. With its astounding biological diversity and landscapes of active volcanoes, dense cloud forests and sparkling beaches, the country’s natural beauty knows no bounds. Days are filled with eco-friendly adventures and tranquil evenings spent in Costa Rica’s finest lodges.

With us, learn about the region of Monteverde — home to the lush Cloud Forest Reserve — at a

reception. More than 400 bird species and 1,500 plant species thrive in the forest, which you discover in the company of an expert naturalist. Explore Costa Rica’s Arenal region from 15 hanging bridges suspended above the trees and enjoy a breathtaking view of the active Arenal Volcano from your hotel. On the Caribbean coast, explore Tortuguero’s wildlife-rich canals by boat and the nesting sites of one of the world’s most endangered species, the Atlantic green sea turtle. MEXICO

Look beyond Mexico’s white-sand beaches, and find a fascinating land of breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant culture rooted in preColumbian and European traditions. With A&K’s local connections and

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24/7 service, discover a brand new side of this familiar neighbor. Mexico’s natural spectacles surprise and delight visitors. Discover the country’s wild beauty on the perfect adventure, whether you trek Copper Canyon, one of the world’s deepest, or visit the Celestun Biosphere Reserve. Travel to Mexico’s pre-Columbian settlements, such as the ruins of Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore Mexico’s Spanish provenance in towns such as Puebla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site graced with beautiful colonial buildings, and even in the plazas of historic Mexico City. PANAMA, NICARAGUA & GUATEMALA

Nicaragua enchants with gorgeous

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landscapes and embraces travellers with a warm hospitality. The country is one of Central America’s best-kept secrets, boasting sparkling beaches, shimmering lakes, colonial buildings and a captivating culture at every street festival and bustling market. Guatemala is a land of rich Mayan influences and unique pyramids, such as the lost city of Tikal. This stunning country is also home to soaring volcanoes — 37 total — rare wildlife and regal colonial traces, the latter present in Antigua’s old town. Tiny Panama offers more than a historic canal — it’s one of the best places to snorkel and deep sea fish in Central America. Add an intoxicating blend of Spanish heritage and West Indian culture, and discover this gem of a destination.

HIGHLIGHTS Costa Rica: Travel swiftly between major points in your itinerary with private air charters Mexico: Meet a Mayan family to gain an insider’s perspective on traditional liffe Nicaragua: Explore colonial buildings by horse-drawn carriage in Granada Guatemala: Stare in awe at the Mayan temples soaring out of the jungles of Tikal National Park Panama: See Panama’s famous canal from a perspective other visitors do not — from a fast boat speeding through the locks

COSTA RICA & PANAMA TIME DIFFERENCE: EST minus 1 hour VISAS: No visa required for U.S. passport holders. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: No vaccinations required when you travel directly from North America.

GUATEMALA & NICARAGUA TIME DIFFERENCE: Same as EST VISAS: No visa required for U.S. passport holders. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: No vaccinations required when you travel directly from North America.

MEXICO TIME DIFFERENCE: EST minus 1 – 2 hours VISAS: No visa required for U.S. passport holders. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: No vaccinations required when you travel directly from North America.

Health and visa requirements are subject to change.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

DISCOVERY SERIES

Highlights of Costa Rica A Discovery Journey Through Costa Rica The Arenal Volcano, rising in the horizon

8 Days

A pioneer in eco-tourism, Costa Rica enchants with its abundant wildlife and well-preserved rainforests. Explore this destination on a Discovery program that delivers Costa Rica’s musts: Monteverde’s spectacular cloud forest and historic Quaker roots, Arenal’s volcanic landscapes that culminate in the soaring Arenal Volcano and Tortuguero, the best place to see the endangered Atlantic green sea turtle in the wild.

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DAY 1:

Arrive in San José, where you are met and transferred to your hotel.

two and a half acres of this private reserve is used for the cultivation of banana, coffee, beans and vegetables. Enjoy a welcome dinner tonight.

DAY 2:

DAY 3:

USA or Canada/ San José, Costa Rica

San José/Monteverde

Drive to Monteverde and the nearby cloud forest. Founded by a group of Quakers in 1954, Monteverde is a peaceful community of dairy farmers, naturalists and tourism service providers who joined together to create a model for sustainable development and environmental protection. Enjoy a twilight tour of the Ecological Sanctuary in the late afternoon, the most active time for the wildlife that live here, which include sloth, porcupine, white-faced monkey, butterflies and birds. Almost

Monteverde

After breakfast, visit the enchanting Monteverde Butterfly Garden to learn about the incredible biodiversity of the Monteverde region. This afternoon, explore the unique and spectacular Cloud Forest Reserve, containing six ecologically diverse habitats. As many as 400 species of birds, 490 butterfly species, 100 species of mammals and a staggering 1,500 species of plants are at home here. Later, meet with one of the original Quaker settlers of the area.

DAY 4:

Monteverde/Arenal

Enhance Your Journey with an Extension

Travel along scenic gravel roads to Rio Chiquito; then cruise across majestic Lake Arenal on the way to your hotel. Settle in to the hotel, set on 100 acres with views of the Arenal Volcano and Arenal River Gorge. You have time to relax before your visit to the Hidalgo family’s hot springs for a swim. Giant strangler fig and kapok trees provide shade as you enjoy a natural massage from the small cascade of hot spring water. DAY 5:

LAPA RIOS (5 days) Escape to the most remote region of Costa Rica, staying in the secluded, luxurious Lapa Rios Ecolodge. NICARAGUA (6 days) Explore inspiring landscapes and a rich blend of cultures in this panorama of Nicaragua.

Arenal

Explore the Arenal region on an excursion with a bird’s-eye view from a vantage point of numerous fixed and hanging bridges poised above the trees. Observe the natural beauty of flowers, lush vegetation and exotic birds as you walk along the beautiful trails designed to blend in with the natural environment. This afternoon, visit the Arenal Observatory Lodge to view the seismographs installed by the Smithsonian Institute to monitor the volcano. Afterward, discuss the origins, patterns and geography of this and the over 30 other volcanoes that exist in Costa Rica. DAY 6:

Arenal/Tortuguero

Fly to the Caribbean coast this morning. Slow-moving tropical rivers define the essence of Tortuguero, and you explore its narrow, tranquil canals by boat in search of the abundant wildlife often hidden by thick vines and other flora that engulf your path. Originally intended to protect a major nesting beach of the Atlantic green sea turtle, Tortuguero National Park now protects more than 50,000 acres, one of the last large areas of tropical rainforest in Central America. The park boasts 11 habitats, home to monkey, sloth, river otter, caiman and frog. DAY 7:

Tortuguero

Today, continue exploring the canals by boat. After lunch, visit the quaint village of Tortuguero, walking through the paths lined with colorful homes and chatting with locals to learn about their way of life. At the Caribbean Conservation Corporation (CCC) Museum, learn about the Atlantic green sea turtle, which thrive on Tortuguero’s shores. (Tortuguero comes from the word tortuga, “turtle� in Spanish.) You may wander the beach where thousands of sea turtle nest from June through October. It is thought that these gentle vegetarians return to nest on the beach where they were born. Optional kayaks and canoes are available to access the most remote areas of Tortuguero National Park at your leisure. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner. DAY 8:

A hummingbird feeds on a ower in Monteverde

Tortuguero/San JosĂŠ/USA or Canada

Return this morning to San JosĂŠ by private chartered flight. Later today, depart on your homebound flight. B NOTE: This program contains some active elements

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OVERVIEW: › / [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ J Xe Afj„# D fek\m\i[\# 8i\eXc Xe[ Tortuguero ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › KiXm\c jn`]kcp Xe[ Zfd]fikXYcp Y\kn\\e dXafi gf`ekj `e your itinerary with private air charters › D \\k fe\ f] D fek\m\i[\Êj fi`^`eXc H lXb\i j\kkc\ij [li`e^ a private reception and learn about Costa Rica’s brief but fascinating history from someone who lived it › N Xcb XYfm\ X iX`e]fi\jk ZXefgp fe jljg\e[\[ Yi`[^\j# viewing this natural wonder from a unique vantage point › C\Xie _fn k_\ ZflekipÊj dXep XZk`m\ mfcZXef\j `eZcl[`e^ the Arenal Volcano) are monitored during a visit to the seismographs installed by the Smithsonian Institute

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

SIGNATURE SERIES

Signature Mexico A Pre-Arranged Independent Journey with Local Guides The larger-than-life Pyramid of the Wizard in the ruined city of Uxmal

9 Days

D \o`Zf c`\j aljk jflk_ f] k_\ Yfi[\i# but this lively country is a world XgXik% F e k_`j J `^eXkli\ aflie\p# delve into its ancient history when you visit incredible archaeological sites, including Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Experience its Spanish past in colonial-era cities, and dive into local life with a stay in a hacienda and visit with a Mayan family.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

DAY 1:

USA or Canada/ Mexico City, Mexico Mexico City is the country’s cultural and economic heart. On arrival, you are met and privately transferred to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure for you to explore this dynamic capital city of historic buildings, Aztec relics and friendly people. DAY 2:

Mexico City

Head to the world-renowned National Museum of Anthropology, one of the most important of its kind in the world and home to the largest collection of pre-Columbian Mexican objects. Continue to Mexico City’s central square — the Zocalo, the second-largest in the world — flanked by the National

Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Templo Mayor, the main temple of the Aztecs. DAY 3:

Mexico City/Campeche

This morning, fly to Campeche, a city founded in 1540 by Spanish conquistadores. This afternoon, embark on a tour of historic Campeche city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that retains many of the old colonial city walls and fortifications built to protect the city from buccaneers and marauders. This evening, relax or explore on your own. DAY 4:

Campeche

The morning is at leisure. In the afternoon, take a privately guided tour of the fascinating Mayan archaeological site

of Edzna with your guide. The ancient site — founded between 600 and 300 BC — is a significant Mayan city due to the many technological advances believed to have been developed here, including a magnificent drainage system that funneled rainwater into underground cisterns called chultunes. DAY 5:

Enhance Your Journey with an Extension

HISTORIC MEXICO (5 days) Discover ancient sites and proud artistic kiX[`k`fej `e >lXeXalXkf# J Xe D `^l\c [\ Allende and beyond.

Campeche/Merida

This morning, continue north to the lavish Hacienda Temozon in the heart of Mayan territory and explore the Puuc Route, including the archaeological site of Uxmal, an ancient city of low, horizontal palaces set around courtyards and decorated with rich sculptural elements. Savor a typical pibil (earth-cooked) meal and meet a Mayan family en route. Arrive at the sprawling Hacienda Temozon, a charming, colonial hacienda. DAY 6:

Merida

Discover Celestun Biosphere Reserve, one of the most important protected areas in the Yucatan Peninsula, and explore the mangrove estuaries and wetlands by boat. Celestun — located where the Celestun River and the Gulf of Mexico meet — is home to a wide array of flora and fauna including crocodile, egret, heron, ibis and 300 species of birds, including vast flocks of bright-pink flamingo and heron. In the afternoon, join your guide for a private tour of Merida, an elegant city that was named by the conquering Spaniards in honor of the city of Merida in Spain. DAY 7:

Merida

Enjoy the day at leisure at the hacienda, where you can relax by the pool, play tennis or explore your beautiful surroundings by mountain bike. DAY 8:

Merida/Chichen Itza

The morning is yours to enjoy at the hacienda. In the afternoon, embark on a privately guided trip to the town of Izamal with its yellow painted monastery and unexcavated mounds. Continue to Piste, the town surrounding Chichen Itza — the most famous of all Mayan archaeological sites —

DAY 9:

Flamingo thrive in the Celestun Biosphere Reserve

Chichen Itza/Cancun/USA or Canada

You are among the first visitors today to enter and explore Chichen Itza, one of the most spectacular and impressive of all the sites of the Mayan civilization. Chichen Itza served as the political and economic center. Its various structures — including the pyramid of Kukulkan, the Temple of Chac Mool and the Hall of the Thousand Pillars — demonstrate the Maya’s extraordinary commitment to architectural space, advanced mathematical knowledge and great understanding of the solar system. Continue to Cancun for your flight home. B

RECOMMENDS Extend your stay in Cancun or Riviera Maya.

OVERVIEW: › 0 [Xpj# m`j`k`e^ D \o`Zf :`kp# : Xdg\Z_\# D \i`[X Xe[ Chichen Itza ADVANTAGES OPTIONALS: › <og\i`\eZ\ X Yp^fe\ \iX n_\e pfl jkXp Xk ?XZ`\e[X Temozon, a sprawling estate that harks back to colonial times in the Yucatan peninsula › D \\k X D XpXe ]Xd`cp kf ^X`e Xe `ej`[\iÊj g\ijg\Zk`m\ fe traditional life › <ogcfi\ \eZ_Xek`e^ @qXdXc# X kiX[`k`feXc PlZXk\ZXe Z`kp boasting both yellow-hued Spanish buildings and ancient Mayan remnants › D Xb\ Xe \Xicp jkXik Xk :_`Z_\e @kqX n_\e pfl jkXp Xk k_\ X[aXZ\ek Cf[^\ Xk :_`Z_\e @kqX# n`k_ X gi`mXk\ \ekiXeZ\ leading right to the ruins L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L à PA G O S

A&K EXTENSIONS

Central America & Mexico Extensions Extend your experience with these add-on itineraries. K_\ Z_Xid`e^ Zfcfe`Xc Z`kp f] >lXeXalXkf `e D \o`Zf

HISTORIC MEXICO (5 days, visiting Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Queretaro and Teotihuacan) DAY 1: Fly into Guanajuato. DAY 2: Meet your guide today for a private city tour that includes Guanajuato’s central plaza, Alhondiga de Granaditas (the site of the first rebel victory in the War of Independence), the Museo y Casa de Diego Rivera and the Museo de las Momias. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. DAY 3: After breakfast, drive to San Miguel de Allende, known for its artistic spirit and role in Mexico’s independence movement. Take a city tour that includes a stop at the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel. Visit Fabrica La Aurora, an art and design center housed in a former textile factory. The afternoon is at leisure to explore San Miguel’s shops, museums and galleries. DAY 4: This morning, discover the forgotten pueblo of Mineral de Pozos, a onceprosperous silver and gold mining town. After lunch, continue to explore this ghost town and the Seven Sisters mine before returning to San Miguel. The afternoon is at leisure. DAY 5: After breakfast early this morning, travel toward Mexico City by private vehicle, stopping en route in charming Queretaro. Continue to Teotihuacan, once the largest city in the pre-Columbian Americas. Following lunch, explore this astounding archaeological site, visiting its vast temples and pyramids. Afterward, drive to Mexico City. B L

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

GUATEMALA (5 days, visiting Antigua, Lake Atitlan and Flores-Tikal) DAY 1: Meet your guide and driver for a one-hour drive to the colonial town of

Antigua, where you are free to explore. DAY 2: Take a tour of Antigua’s main square, palace, Cathedral, La Merced Church and San Francisco Church. Travel through the highlands to Lake Atitlan and past the small village of St. Catarina Palopo to your boutique hotel. DAY 3: View everyday Mayan life in Chichicastenango on market day and during a Mayan ritual. Depart for Flores and arrive at your hotel along Lake Petén Itza. DAY 4: Explore Tikal National Park, where huge Mayan temples rise above the jungle canopy. Return to Guatemala City this evening. DAY 5: Board your onward journey flight. B

NICARAGUA (6 days, visiting Granada, León and Managua) DAY 1: Drive to Peñas Blancas, passing Ometepe Island and the Maderas and

Concepción volcanoes. Continue to Granada, founded in 1524. DAY 2: Tour Granada’s cathedral and Convento San Francisco on foot and by horsedrawn carriage. After, visit a craft market and meet a local artisan. DAYS 3–4: Spend two days exploring León. Visit Ortiz-Gurdian Art Museum and Old León, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour León and some of the 13 churches connected by underground tunnels used as escape routes during pirate attacks. DAY 5: Visit Managua’s Arab-style cathedral and the monument to the Sandinistas that can be seen from nearly every part of the city. DAY 6: Board your onward flight. B PUNTA ISLITA (5 days) DAY 1: Board a 45-minute flight to Punta Islita, where it is a short transfer to your small

luxury hotel. Located in the province of Guanacaste on a Pacific beach, Hotel Punta Islita offers horseback riding, fishing, snorkeling, hiking and spa services. The hotel has joined with the community (population 100) to develop an outdoor art museum created by a local women’s co-op and a similar project for men who do carpentry for the hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is at your leisure. Punta Islita Hotel DAYS 2–3: Spend two full days relaxing at Punta Islita. Punta Islita Hotel B DAY 4: Transfer to Islita and fly back to San José, where you are met and transferred to your hotel for the evening. DAY 5: Drive to the airport this morning for your onward flight. B

LAPA RIOS (5 days, visiting Puerto Jimenez and Osa Peninsula) DAY 1: Fly to Puerto Jimenez and transfer to the breathtaking Lapa Rios Ecolodge

on the Osa Peninsula, located near one of the most unspoiled areas of Costa Rica’s Corcovado National Park. This property is a secluded retreat located high on a ridge, affording spectacular views of the Pacific. You can enjoy the privacy of your bungalow while easily accessing the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Lapa Rios Ecolodge L D DAYS 2–3: Spend two full days engaging in optional activities such as hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, dolphin watching, snorkeling, birdwatching, fishing and surfing. Alternatively, relax and take advantage of the ecolodge’s facilities. Lapa Rios Ecolodge B L D DAY 4: Return to San José and explore the city at your leisure. DAY 5: Board your flight for your onward journey. B

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

TAILOR MADE

Beyond the Canal A Tailor Made Journey Through Panama A keel-billed toucan caws in Soberania National Park

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. On this independent journey, see the Panama Canal as few travellers do, and discover a tiny country full of big surprises: incredible natural landscapes, delectable fusion cuisine and a complex, North-meets-South American history and culture. Begin by arriving in Panama City and visiting the sunny city’s most historically significant sights, including charming Panama Viejo, the first European settlement on the Pacific Coast. See Panama’s famous canal from a perspective other visitors do not: from a fast boat speeding through the locks. Travel on Lake Gatun, navigating up the waterway. You also journey by motorized dugout canoe up the Pequeni River to the Emberá Puru Indian community, where L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

you meet members of one of the last seven indigenous groups left in Panama. Continue overland to Soberania National Park, a rainforest where you may see howler monkey, anteater, agouti (a small rodent) and abundant birdlife. From Soberania, go on to Portobelo, an old Spanish trading port now a sleepy city of less than 3,000 people; then, drive to Colón and ride the Panama Canal Railroad back to Panama City. Your journey then brings you to David in the Chiriqui Province, an area of volcanic highlands, waterfalls and rugged peaks. Check in to your resort at the foot of the dormant Baru Volcano, from which you can see both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea on a clear day. While in David, visit the Finca Lerida coffee

plantation. The lush rainforest trees of this highland area and cloud forest make it an excellent place for birding. Also visit Los Quetzales Trail, which cuts through some of the province’s most pristine protected forest and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Los Quetzales Trail is home to the rare and beautiful Resplendent Quetzal. Depart on your homebound flight.

DAYS 1–3: DAYS 4–6:

Panama City Soberania National Park/Gamboa ;8P J .Å/1 :_`i`hl` G ifm`eZ\ ;8P J 0Å(' 1 G XeXdX :`kp

TAILOR MADE

Under a Rainforest Canopy A Tailor Made Journey Through Costa Rica Close encounter with a red-eyed leaf frog in Tortuguero

Select this sample itinerary or customize your own. Call for details. Explore the natural paradise that is Costa Rica by boat, from hanging bridges and on foot on this independent program through a country that’s lusciously green and fiercely eco-friendly. Begin your wilderness adventure in San José, where you spend your first evening after flying in. Drive overland to Monteverde and its nearby cloud forest. Here, you wander through the Monteverde Butterfly Garden. Then visit the misty Cloud Forest Reserve, which contains six ecologically diverse habitats, 90% of which are virgin forest. Continue to Rio Chiquito, driving along scenic roads to Lake Arenal for a bird’s-eye view from hanging bridges poised above the trees. Enjoy a dip at the Hidalgo Family Farm and Hot Springs.

Your journey then takes you to Tortuguero on the country’s Caribbean coast, an area of narrow paths winding through exuberant greenery. Explore Tortuguero by boat, a journey enlivened by glimpses of sloth, howler monkey and macaw peering from the surrounding trees. Then visit the Caribbean Conservation Corporation Museum to learn about the Atlantic green sea turtle, an endangered species that has a penchant for nesting along Tortuguero’s coast in the summer and fall. After a couple of days in Tortuguero, continue to Puerto Jimenez and transfer to Lapa Rios, a luxury wilderness hideaway in Central America’s last remaining lowland tropical rainforest. Over the next two days, explore Lapa

Rios. Take a medicine walk with your guide through primary forest and learn about traditional Indian uses of barks and saps as medicine. You may also hike down the hills or through virgin rainforest to waterfalls, or glimpse nocturnal wildlife on a night walk. Return to San José and transfer to your hotel for a day at leisure. The next day, board your homebound flight.

DAY 1: DAYS 2–3: DAYS 4–5: ;8P J - Å/1 ;8P J 0Å(' 1

San Jose Monteverde Tortugero CXgX I `fj J Xe Afj

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

HOTEL PORTFOLIO

Hotel Portfolio A selection of recommended hotels for Central America & Mexico

TORTUGA LODGE Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica

MONTEVERDE LODGE Monteverde, Costa Rica

Tortuga Lodge, situated on 146 acres of private land on Costa Rica’s northeast Caribbean coast, has 26 deluxe rooms and one penthouse overlooking the Tortuguero River. The Lodge restaurant sits at the river dock, a scenic backdrop for the delectable meals created by chef Valentin Corral, who specializes in local and international dishes. The Lodge is designed to blend into the river environment and features eco-friendly features, such as a pool with an environmentally sound purification system.

Located in the Tilarán Mountain Range at 4,600 feet above sea level — and on the edge of the world’s best-known mid-elevation cloud forest — Monteverde Lodge boasts 24 standard rooms with incredible views. The rooms at the Lodge are designed to place you “in the forest,” featuring panoramic windows of the surrounding flora and fauna. All are spacious, with solar-heated hot water baths. Savor international and local dishes created by talented chef Valentin Corral in a dining room that overlooks an expansive garden.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

LAS ALAMANDAS Costalegre, Mexico Las Alamandas is an intimate retreat located within a 1,500-acre private paradise of exotic trees, palms, flowers, wild birds, lagoons and white-sand beaches. The 17-room hideaway, located on a private beach, is reminiscent of an elegant, private estate, where guests experience the highest standards of hospitality. There are a total of four private beaches on the property, acres upon acres of manicured lawn and gardens, private estuaries, and miles of breathtakingly scenic hiking and biking trails. Las Alamandas is the brainchild of Isabel Goldsmith-Patiño, the granddaughter of “Bolivian Tin King” Don Antenor Patiño, who developed Las Hadas resort in Manzanillo. In 1989, Goldsmith-Patiño acquired the breathtaking acreage on which Don Antenor had visualized a large resort and golf course. His granddaughter, however, was passionate about preserving the environment, and this vision resulted in an unforgettable, eco-friendly haven, perfect for a discriminating international clientele and honeymooners.

THE TIDES Riviera Maya, Mexico

THE ST. REGIS MEXICO CITY Mexico City, Mexico

Hidden in the small village of Playa Xcalacoco just outside Playa del Carmen, The Tides is a seaside refuge set deep into the primitive Mayan tropical forest. The 30-villa Mexico luxury resort has a full-service luxury spa and an award-winning restaurant and lounge featuring “Mayaterranean cuisine.” Guests enjoy access to seven miles of white-sand beaches and trips to nearby ancient cities and ruins. Each villa features its own private plunge pool, outdoor shower and terrace to enhance the idyllic experience.

On the timeless Paseo de la Reforma, this hotel — housed in a distinctive Cesar Pelli-designed building — overlooks the city’s most iconic monuments. This luxury property offers the signature St. Regis Butler Service for its 189 guest rooms, including 36 suites. Rooms are comfortable and sleek, with interiors by celebrated designer Yabu Pushelberg. Relax in the luxurious Remède Spa, or enjoy an elegant meal at the Diana Restaurant. The King Cole Bar offers delightful views of the Paseo from its spacious terrace. L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

CASA DE SIERRA NEVADA BY ORIENT-EXPRESS San Miguel de Allende, Mexico San Miguel de Allende, a picturesque mountain town, is laced by narrow cobblestone streets and leafy squares lined with exquisite colonial structures. Located a few blocks from the cathedral and main city square, the boutique hotel Casa de Sierra Nevada is a mixture of 16th- to 18th-century Spanish colonial buildings. Its 37 rooms and suites are spread among six colonial mansions. Each mansion, which features two to six guest rooms or suites, is unique, some boasting private patios or secluded entrances. The hotel features the beautiful Laja Spa and two restaurants: Andanza, which serves Mexican cuisine with a modern flair, and Parque Restaurant, offering traditional Mexican dishes with an elegant twist. Learn the skills to develop your own take on Mexican cuisine at the on-site Sazón Culinary School, Orient-Express’ tabletop store and cooking school. L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

MAROMA RESORT AND SPA BY ORIENT-EXPRESS Riviera Maya, Mexico Maroma Resort and Spa is an Orient-Express luxury resort in Riviera Maya, surrounded by a nature preserve. Experience the magic of the Yucatan jungle on the Riviera Maya, with echoes of the ancient Mayan civilization, coral reefs fringed with sugary veils of white sand and a lapis-blue Caribbean Sea marking the rhythm of days and nights. Maroma is a rustically luxurious hideaway built in the tradition of the Mexican haciendas, where personal service, warm hospitality and privacy are unsurpassed. This romantic 65-room resort, with its Villa Karolina, is reputed to be among the finest in Mexico. It is popular with both honeymooners and jet-setters looking for a change of pace.

L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Ă PA G O S

Antarctica Expeditions The noise resembles the roar of heavy, distant surf. Standing on the stirring ice one can imagine it is disturbed by the breathing and tossing of a mighty giant below. — Sir Ernest Shackleton, Diary (1915)

Zodiacs getting up close to snow fields

The myths of a “Terra Australis” or “southern land” reach back to the ancient Greeks, who knew about the Arctic and decided there must be an anti-Arctic to balance the world. It was a lucky guess that wasn’t confirmed until 200 years ago. Since then, explorers have been fascinated with this land of glistening glaciers and hardy wildlife. MV ‘Le Boreal’ ushers in a new era of comfort and style to Antarctic exploration. Built in 2010, ‘Le Boreal’ is the first all-balcony stateroom and suite vessel in Antarctica. As a long-time member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators and boasting an impeccable safety record, we continue to set the standard for travel to the White Continent more than 20 years after we started exploring the region. Every Antarctica voyage features an award-winning expedition staff and naturalist guides dedicated to planning imaginative itineraries, thoughtful lectures and unique shore excursions. With us, count on a comprehensive experience that will transform your understanding of Antarctica, its wildlife and its history. L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

MV ‘Le Boreal’

Prestige Suite on board MV ‘Le Boreal’

DISCOVER ANTARCTICA YOUR WAY A DAY IN ANTARCTICA, IN STYLE

A journey to Antarctica is the best, most allinclusive way to explore the White Continent. From morning till night, our expertly crafted itineraries are designed to immerse you in this incredible land. Though each day’s activities vary depending on weather conditions, a typical day starts with breakfast on board ‘Le Boreal,’ in your cabin or the Restaurant. After breakfast, set out on the first of two daily shore excursions on board a Zodiac, a sturdy, motorized boat that ferries you from ‘Le Boreal’ to shore. In the afternoon, return to the ship for a gourmet lunch and time to relax in the comfortable lounges or in your spacious cabin before heading out on the second shore excursion of the day. The thrilling discoveries don’t end upon your return to ‘Le Boreal.’ Back on board, gather in the lounge prior to dinner for a recap of the day’s adventures. After dinner, in the long twilight of Antarctica, head to the deck to take photographs with the help of a professional staff photographer, or chat with your naturalist guide about the wildlife and history of Antarctic exploration.

explore the remnants of a former whaling station; walk side by side with chinstrap, gentoo or Adélie penguin on remote beaches; visit a working research station or explorer Ernest Shackleton’s gravesite; or set foot on Deception Island, formed from the caldera of a volcano. Excursions may include visits to sites such as Paradise Bay, Cuverville Island, Goudier Island and the breathtaking Lemaire Channel. MV ‘LE BOREAL’

On other cruises to different destinations, ‘Le Boreal’ carries more than 264 passengers. But in Antarctica, A&K limits her complement to just 199 guests. Fewer passengers means more opportunities for shore excursions and cabins with private balconies for every guest. The ship features 104 fully equipped outside balcony cabins and suites. ‘Le Boreal’ is also outfitted with a technologically advanced stabilizing system to minimize the effects of potentially rough conditions and keep passengers comfortable.

SHORE EXCURSIONS Every excursion brings new wonders to discover: glide up onto a beach teeming with basking elephant seal;

JOURNEYS TO ANTARCTICA CLASSIC ANTARCTICA

See vast penguin colonies, stately icebergs and calving glaciers as you travel in the path of explorers such as Ernest Shackleton and Jean-Baptiste Charcot. Visit a working scientific station and whaling and sealing stations on the Antarctic peninsula.

The Restaurant provides a modern setting for gourmet cuisine

ANTARCTICA, SOUTH GEORGIA & THE FALKLAND ISLANDS

Stand among thousands of king penguin and explore the wildlife-rich, glacier-carved coves and rugged shoreline of South Georgia Island, where you also see large populations of fur and elephant seal. Select departures are designated feature children’s activity coordinators on board to organize special child-friendly programming and activities.

A gentoo penguin looks out on Neko Harbor L AT I N A M E R I C A , & T H E G A L Á PA G O S

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