Latin America & Antarctica 2014-15
A Legacy Like No Other As the world’s longest-running travel company, Cox & Kings has been designing, organizing and leading exceptional journeys since we operated our first expedition to India in 1758. Since then, we’ve been at the forefront of exploration, organizing the first attempted expedition to Mount Everest in 1922 and bringing Mahatma Gandhi to Europe in 1933.
And these days, traveling with Cox & Kings is a bit more comfortable than in those expeditionary days of old, but no less exciting. On each journey, you’ll reap the benefits of over two and a half centuries of relationships — local experts, insider experiences and cultural interactions you simply cannot get elsewhere.
Over the past quarter millennium, we’ve broken down barriers, unlocked doors, seen new vistas and laid the world at the feet of those who’ve traveled with us. In other words, we’ve been around the world a few times… and we’re passionate about delivering vibrant and indelible travel experiences.
At Cox & Kings, we believe that travel changes lives, and we’re dedicated to creating authentic travel experiences, full of surprises, wonder and excitement. So whether you want to trek through the wilds of Patagonia, delve into the history of the Incas in Peru or learn how to samba on the beaches of Brazil, we’ve got the expertise and the relationships to ensure that your journey is completely unforgettable.
Piper in Peruvian Dress
Discover Latin America Travel south of the border to experience the magic, mystery and marvels of Central and South America. Relax on blissful beaches, trek deep into luxuriant jungles, explore the astounding ruins of the Mayan and Incan empires and enjoy the food, nightlife and culture of some of the Americas’ most vibrant cities. The mists were rising from the jungle when Hiram Bingham rediscovered the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu just over a century ago. Today, this majestic Lost City retains its enigmatic aura and spectacular views. It’s a great place to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail to experience ancient Incan ruins, native villages and breathtaking scenery. Over on Peru’s northern coast, trace the Nazca Lines and delve into some more pre-Columbian history. Head north to straddle the equator in the varied land of Ecuador, home to the dense Amazon, the icy Andes, craggy volcanoes and elegant haciendas. And while you’re there, travel offshore to the isolated Galápagos Islands, a living laboratory of evolution. You’ll find your feet tapping and body swaying to the rhythms of tropical Colombia. Stroll the cobblestone-lined streets of colonial cities, explore remote national parks and indulge yourself on white-sand beaches. The wonders of Brazil match the country’s ebullient spirit. From the incredible wildlife of the Pantanal and the Amazon basin to the pulsating energy of Rio de Janeiro and the colonial charm of seaside cities, traveling in Brazil is an invigorating, enchanting experience. If soaring, snowcapped peaks, sparkling blue glaciers and pristine mountain rivers are what you’re looking for, go south to the wilderness areas of Argentina and Chile. Spectacular Patagonia and the austere
Atacama Desert are perfect bookends for a journey through the vibrant cities of Buenos Aires and Santiago, as well as the rich wine lands of the countries’ heartlands. At the southern tip of the world lies the icy continent of Antarctica. With Cox & Kings, you can see it your way. Board your expedition ship in Argentinean Ushuaia for your voyage across the Drake Passage, following in the footsteps of the great explorers as you visit penguin colonies, modern research facilities and historic sites. Or fly over the Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands to board your ship and sail along the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, past ice-filled fjords and spectacular icebergs. The countries of Central America offer some unforgettable experiences closer to home. Trace the course of colonial civilization and the Silver Age in Mexico; follow in the footsteps of the Mayans in the Yucatán Peninsula, Guatemala and Belize; see the Pacific and Caribbean wonders of Costa Rica; explore undiscovered Nicaragua; and visit the jungles, mountain valleys and islands of Panama. Wherever you choose to travel in Latin America, we’ll be right there with you, making sure your journey is authentic, innovative and utterly unforgettable.
SCOTT WISEMAN President, Cox & Kings, The Americas Antarctica
FAMILY FRIENDLY: A shared journey can bond generations of family like no other experience. Our Destination specialists can design these trips complete with activities to keep the kids engaged, the grownups relaxed and everybody inspired.
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NEW: Our expert Destination specialists have harnessed their regional knowledge to craft groundbreaking, engaging journeys that take you off the beaten path with exclusive insider access and unforgettable cultural experiences.
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MEXICO
Contents
Mexico City
BELIZE GUATEMALA Belize City Guatemala City NICARAGUA Managua COSTA RICA Panama San José
INTRODUCTION
Caracas
City
VENEZUELA
PANAMA
Bogotá
GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS
Quito
COLOMBIA
PERU Lima
BRAZIL BOLIVIA Rio de Janeiro
EASTER ISLAND ARGENTINA Santiago
Buenos Aires
URUGUAY Montevideo
CHILE
FALKLAND ISLANDS
Colombia: Mystery, History
& Adventure
The Cox & Kings Difference
34
Brazil: A Wildlife Safari
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Your Journey, Your Way
36
Brazil: Colonial Roots
38
Contrasts of Northern Brazil
40
Private Extensions – Brazil
42
The Pulse and Rhythms of
Argentina & Brazil
CENTRAL AMERICA
44
Quintessential South America
73
Guatemala & Belize: Mayan
Treasures & Coral Reefs
74
Costa Rica: Coast to Coast
76
Undiscovered Nicaragua
79
Panama: Land of Diversity
10
Tango, Glaciers & The Rapa
Nui Culture
PERU, ECUADOR & GALÁPAGOS 12
La Paz
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MY DREAM TRIP
ECUADOR
BRAZIL, CHILE & ARGENTINA
Machu Picchu: Mystic Empire
46
Essential Argentina
48
Chile & Argentina: Patagonia & Fjords
50
Chile: Majestic Patagonia
Walking the Inca Trail
52
Private Extensions – Argentina
19
Private Extensions –
54
Private Extensions – Chile
Trekking in Peru
14
Peru: Archaeological North Coast
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Ancient Peru: The Inca Route
18
Private Extension –
22
Private Extensions – Peru
26
Peru & Galápagos: Legends
& Explorations
28
Ecuador & Galápagos:
Avenue of the Volcanoes
30 33
ANTARCTICA
MEXICO 68
Colonial Mexico
70
Mexico & Guatemala: Following the
Footsteps of the Mayans
INFORMATION 81
Travel in Latin America
82
Latin America Fact File
56
Antarctica Fly/Sail: Extreme
Expressions of Nature
87
Festivals in Latin America
58
Antarctica: The Last Untouched Continent
88
Weather Chart
XX Antarctica Ships
89
Distance Chart
Private Extensions – Ecuador
COLOMBIA
90
Travel Insurance
Galápagos Ships
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91
Terms & Conditions
Treasures of Colombia
For pricing and dates refer to the pricing sheet in front of the brochure or coxandkingsusa.com The Nanay River lies west of the Napo River in Peru. As two of the many tributaries to the Amazon, these rivers surround the jungle city of Iquitos. Beginning and ending in the lowlands, the Nanay flows slowly through the thick rainforest, its crooked waterways bending back on themselves. Water empties into narrow natural canals and strings of lagoons, which flood the flat country on either side during the rainy season. This remote area is home to pink and grey river dolphins who sport in the river current, pygmy marmosets and howler monkeys who rule the trees, and more than 100,000 species of insects. Latin America & Antarctica
2014-15
ANTARCTICA
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Lake Titicaca, Peru
The Cox & Kings Difference We live for exceptional moments... we’ll help you live yours. Traveling with Cox & Kings means the difference between “seeing” and “doing”. We deliver hands-on travel experiences that will deepen your understanding of what you see and where you are. When you travel with Cox & Kings, you won’t just hear about local culture — you’ll be immersed in it. Blaze new paths The well-trod path is not on our map. When others go west, we head east. We have our ear to the ground in every country we operate, and we constantly discover new and unique experiences — so that you have a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable trip. Everyone is different, with different dreams, different interests, different pace and different aspirations. A well-designed journey should send
your heart soaring, surprise you and stimulate your sense of wonder. And unlike other travel companies, you will speak directly with our Destination Experts, who have firsthand knowledge of the places you want to go — and can give you insider tips on the can’t-miss highlights as well as some less-visited gems. Leave the planning to us Don’t worry — we’ll sweat the details, pay constant attention to world events, stay in close contact with our people on the ground. We offer some of the best travel insurance coverage in the industry — even for pre-existing conditions — to protect your travel investment. And as a well-respected global company, Cox & Kings has tremendous buying power. So whether you’re on an adventurous excursion or a beyondall-dreams luxury venture, we deliver trusted services and great value. We invite you to join us on some of the world’s finest travel adventures.
Penguins, Antarctic Peninsula
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Gauchos Herd Sheep, Lake Argentino
Your Journey, Your Way Every traveler is different, with different goals, different dreams and different aspirations. At Cox & Kings, we celebrate these differences with choices in how you travel with us.
Private Journeys
the details to us, and get started making memories on an enlightening, enlivening, and worry-free journey.
HANDCRAFTED ITINERARIES FOR ONE OR MORE TRAVELERS
The Private Journeys listed here are just a sampling of what’s possible. Interested in a destination you don’t see? All you have to do is contact us and we’ll start turning your dream into a reality.
Our Destination Experts are some of the best in the business at designing innovative, authentic and remarkable travel programs. In this book, we’ve highlighted the best of the custom programs they’ve put together over the years for discerning travelers like you.
Blue-Footed Boobies, Ecuador
When you take a Private Journey with Cox & Kings, you know you’re getting a custom-designed itinerary that takes advantage of our centuries of relationships around the world. We’ve got the insider knowledge and the expertise to tailor a trip to your needs — whether you want to travel with an extended family group, sail the seas on a small-ship cruise, embark on a romantic honeymoon, or go where few have gone before on an adventurous exploration. You can relax and enjoy your travels knowing that you’ve got on-theground support from a Cox & Kings representative, a private, Englishspeaking guide, and a private vehicle and driver for all road trips. Leave
Escorted Group Journeys EXPLORE THE WORLD IN STYLE WITH LIKE-MINDED TRAVELERS At Cox & Kings, we offer two styles of escorted journeys: • Handcrafted Dream Trips organized and accompanied by our Destination Experts. • Adventurous Discovery Escorted Journeys that take you off the beaten path.
not available to larger groups. With over 20 Discovery Escorted Journeys departing with a minimum of two travelers, you’ve got the Cox & Kings guarantee that the trip you book is the trip you’ll take. Are you interested in taking one of our Escorted Group Journeys with your own group? They’re perfect for families traveling together — just look for the Family Friendly icon and you’ll know that our Destination Experts have planned the trip to appeal to a multigenerational group, choosing hotels and sightseeing that will keep the kids engaged, the grown ups relaxed and everybody inspired.
Well paced and expertly designed, these programs are renowned for their friendly fellow travelers, exciting touring options, veteran guides and great value. When you travel on a Cox & Kings Escorted Group Journey, you’ll benefit from insider access and exclusive experiences that only we can deliver.
Rio Carnival
You’ll travel the world in style, accompanied by a veteran Tour Director who knows the ins and outs of every corner of your destination, while expert guides give you the low-down on all the sights and illuminate the local culture. Whether you’re on an adventurous exploration of a remote land, a family-focused safari, or an exotic cruise, Cox & Kings Escorted Journeys offer convenience and value, not to mention extraordinary experiences at every turn. With an average group size of only 16 compatible, convivial travelers, you’ll have access to cultural experiences and activities that are simply
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Escorted Luxury Group Journey
Escorted Luxury Group Journey
Guanaco, Torres del Paine
The Cox & Kings Experience
Rano Kao Crater, Easter Island
Moais, Easter Island
tiny Puerto Píramide where you will board a whale-watching boat in search of right whales. Back on dry land, pass several salt mines before arriving at Punta Delgada. Estancia Rincón Chico – 1 night (B, D)
before visiting the breathtaking Grey Glacier and lake by kayak and foot. This evening, savor an exquisite dinner at your award-winning hotel and spa. Singular Hotel – 1 night (B, L, D)
Day 4: Puerto Madryn In Calta Valdés, visit the elephant seals and have the chance to swim with sea lions. Head north to the Punta Norte wildlife reserve and the largest penguin rookery in the area. After lunch at an estancia, return to Puerto Madryn. Territorio Hotel – 1 night (B, L, D) Day 5: To El Calafate Upon arrival in the southern town of El Calafate, you’ll be met and taken to your lodge. This afternoon, visit an interactive museum dedicated to the glaciers of Patagonia. Eolo – 2 nights (B, L, D)
My Dream Trip – Tango, Glaciers & The R apa Nui Culture Buenos Aires, Puerto Madryn, Patagonia & Easter Island 14 D A Y S & 13 N I G H T S
Easter Island Santiago
Buenos Aires
Puerto Madryn
Torres del Paine
El Calafate
Punta Arenas
Embark on this trip of a lifetime to discover the wonders of Argentina and Chile. From the cosmopolitan capitals of Buenos Aires and Santiago through the expansive pampas and the glorious landscapes of Patagonia, you’ll dine in style, stay in unforgettable hotels and lodges, and encounter wonder and adventure at every turn. Fly above the delta in a helicopter, trek along the ice of a glacier, search for the elusive puma, get to know some authentic gauchos and immerse yourself in the mystery of Easter Island.
MY DREAM TRIP by Ignacio Vallin
Latin America Destination Manager
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Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, embark on a tango-themed exploration of the city, including historical performances, a tango lesson and a champagne toast. This evening, savor a delightful private dinner at a Belle Époque mansion owned by two sommeliers. Algodon Mansion – 2 nights (D)
Day 2: Buenos Aires Spend the morning in the pampas. Ride your steed through the pampas before enjoying a classic Argentinean barbeque. Then, board your helicopter for a thrilling ride over the Tigre River Delta. This evening, have dinner with one of Buenos Aires’ best-known art collectors. (B, L, D) Day 3: To Puerto Madryn Your first stop in Argentinean Patagonia is
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Day 6: El Calafate Depart El Calafate in the morning on your way to the magnificent Perito Moreno glacier. Board a boat to cross Brazo Rico. On the other side, strap on your crampons and take a walk on the ice itself. After lunch at a local restaurant, spend the afternoon wandering the boardwalks that offer great views of the glacier. (B, L, D) Day 7: To Torres Del Paine National Park Depart Argentina and cross the border, stopping at Posada Tres Pasos for a traditional Chilean BBQ. Continue to the entrance of Torres del Paine National Park to embark on a three-hour trek with astounding views of the Paine Massif. Tierra Patagonia – 2 nights (B, L, D)
Day 10: To Punta Arenas / Santiago Head north to Santiago. This evening, enjoy a private dinner in the famed Aqui Esta Coco restaurant. Le Reve – 1 night (B, D) Day 11: To Easter Island Upon arrival in Easter Island, discover Ahu Akivi with its seven moais. This evening, sip champagne as the sun goes down in the ceremonial center of Tahai. Hotel Hanga Roa – 3 nights (B, L, D) Day 12: Easter Island Spend a full day exploring Easter Island, including several altars, the famous quarry and the beautiful Anakena Beach where you’ll have a barbeque lunch. This evening, join a local Rapa Nui family for dinner and a cultural exchange. (B, L, D) Day 13: Easter Island See the crater lake at the top of Rano Kau, explore the ceremonial center of Orongo and the Ana Kai Tangata cave paintings. Enjoy a fresh ceviche prepared by a private chef before taking an afternoon hike to the top of the youngest volcano on Easter Island. (B, L, D)
• • • • • • • • • • •
Explore Buenos Aires’ glorious past through the tango Soar on a helicopter tour over the Tigre River Delta Swim with sea lions in the Valdés Peninsula Visit one of Patagonia’s largest Penguin colonies Trek on the mighty Perito Moreno Glacier Enjoy a wonderful BBQ in the company of Patagonian Gauchos Hike in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park Immerse yourself in R apa Nui Culture During the Tapati Festival Celebrate your journey with a Champagne sunset toast on Easter Island Look for pumas in Torres del Paine National Park Taste fresh Ceviche on Easter Island prepared by a private chef
Perito Moreno Glacier
Day 14: To Santiago Fly back to Santiago and connect with your onward flight. (B) Floating, Glacier Grey
Day 8: Torres Del Paine National Park After breakfast, pack a boxed lunch and begin your full-day hike up the base of the towers, taking in rivers, the Ascencio Valley and a lifetime’s worth of spectacular scenery. (B, L, D) Day 9: Torres Del Paine National Park Start early today in hopes of tracking down the elusive puma. Return to the hotel for breakfast Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Machu Picchu
The Cox & Kings Experience
Plaza de Armas, Cusco
Vistadome Train, Machu Picchu
couple’s dance that is an elegant and stylized reenactment of a courtship. After lunch, check in to your Sacred Valley hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Sol y Luna Hotel or Hotel Rio Sagrado – 2 nights (B, L)
the legendary Koricancha — the most revered Inca temple devoted to the worship of the sun whose walls were plated with sheets of gold — continue to the lovely San Blas neighborhood. On the way back to your hotel, pass by Hatunrumiyoc Street with its famed twelve-angle stone and visit the ornate cathedral at the Plaza de Armas. The afternoon is yours for further exploration of this Inca capital. (B)
Day 4: The Sacred Valley (Urubamba) Pay a special visit to the local community of Inca Trail porters and Peruvian weavers in Willoq — and connect with the living culture of the villagers. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about their traditional ways of life. Back at your hotel, enjoy an afternoon at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, take an optional horseback ride, guided hike, white-water rafting adventure or relax and spend a few hours at the spa. (B)
Machu Picchu: Mystic Empire
Lima
Machu Picchu Sacred Valley
Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Cusco 9 DAYS & 8 NIGHTS
Cusco
It was in Peru that the mighty Inca Empire flourished before the Spanish conquistadors began their domination of Andean South America. From the cosmopolitan neighborhoods of Lima, the “City of Kings”, journey to splendid Cusco and the fortresses, markets and villages of the nearby Sacred Valley. Then ascend by train to explore the famed Lost City of the Incas. Set on top of a remote mountain surrounded by tropical jungle, the citadel of Machu Picchu is one of the most breathtaking sights in the world. Day 1: Arrive Lima Upon arrival in Lima, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Casa Andina Private Collection or Miraflores Park Hotel – 2 nights Day 2: Lima Explore Lima on a full-day city tour, which includes Plaza Mayor (main square), and the residential
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districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Enjoy tea at Casa Aliaga, South America’s best-preserved colonial mansion, which has been continuously occupied by the same family since 1535. After lunch, visit the Larco Herrera Museum to discover its incredible collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. After, you head south of Lima where you will have a special visit to the Federico Bauer work shop. Here you will have the opportunity to see some of the artist’s works. (B, L)
Day 3: To The Sacred Valley (Urubamba) Board your flight to Cusco and venture into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Stop en route at the massive fortress of Sacsayhuaman to admire its monumental stones and the ingenious architecture of the Incas. Relish an al fresco lunch of Peruvian BBQ at Wayra Ranch, where you can enjoy a demonstration of horsemanship and a performance of traditional Marinera dance. The national dance of Peru is a graceful and romantic
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Day 5: To Machu Picchu Early this morning, transfer to Ollanta station to board the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu. Rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, Machu Picchu is the only known Inca city to remain intact, which never fails to amaze with both its scale and, its setting, high up in the Andes. Take a guided tour of the citadel’s agricultural terraces, royal houses and temples before lunch. In the afternoon, explore the ruins on your own. If you wish, opt for some more luxury and ride the elegant Hiram Bingham train to and from the citadel. Inkaterra Machu Picchu or Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D)
Day 8: To Lima Upon arrival in Lima, you are met and escorted to your hotel. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure. Why not walk to a nearby restaurant, or pick up some souvenirs at Larco Mar, a cliffside shopping mall? Casa Andina Private Collection or Miraflores Park Hotel – 1 night (B) Day 9: Depart Lima Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • •
See the cultural and historic sights in colonial Lima Visit the artist work shop of Federico Bauer At a festive al fresco lunch, enjoy a performance of the national dance of Peru Explore the fortresses and villages of the Sacred Urubamba Valley Pay a visit to a community of weavers Ascend to the mountaintop citadel of Machu Picchu for two days of discovery Stroll the streets of Cusco, the former Inca capital
Extensions • Inca Trail • Easter Island • Iguazú Falls • Buenos Aires • Rio de Janeiro
Marinera Dancers, Lima
Day 6: To Cusco Why not rise early to view the sunrise over the ruins? Then explore the citadel on your own. If you like, opt to embark on the scenic hike to Huayna Picchu. This afternoon, return by the elegant Hiram Bingham train through the Urubamba Valley to Cusco. Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel or Hotel Monasterio – 2 nights (B) Day 7: Cusco Explore the city where Inca legends meet colonial history on a morning tour of Cusco. After visiting Santo Domingo Monastery, built atop Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Trujillo, Peru
The Cox & Kings Experience Pacaya Amiria National Reserve, Amazons
Huaca Rajada, Chiclayo
local lunch, visit the Tumbas Reales de Sipán, a fantastic museum shaped like a pre-Columbian pyramid that contains an incredible collection of gold artifacts and excavated tombs. This evening, enjoy a festive dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 8: Amazon Admire the spot where the Ucayali and the Marañon rivers meet to form the Amazon. Search for pink dolphins and then visit the local community of San Francisco. Stroll around the village and be given a tour of the school by the children and their teacher. After lunch on board, disembark for a jungle hike to learn about termites, giant Amazonian water lilies and cacique birds. (B, L, D)
Day 5: To Iquitos After a morning at leisure to explore Chiclayo, fly northeast to Iquitos, the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon. Upon arrival, transfer to the pier to board your cruiser. Just before dusk, celebrate your journey into the rainforest with Peru’s national cocktail, a Pisco sour. Finally, amid the beauty of an Amazonian night filled with hundreds of stars, enjoy dinner and live music. M/V Aria – 4 nights (B, D)
Iquitos
Peru: Archaeological North Coast 9 DAYS & 8 NIGHTS
Lima, Trujillo, Chiclayo & the Amazon
Amazon River
Chiclayo Trujillo
Lima
Discover the secrets of Peru’s ancient civilizations on this journey to explore the archaeologically rich north coast. From the Lord of Sipán and the Temple of the Moon to the desert pyramid of El Brujo and the Tucume complex, trace the route of the indigenous people of Peru. Then travel to the Amazon rainforest for a four-night cruise. Explore the jungle, fish for piranha and spot tropical birds as you immerse yourself in one of the world’s great wildernesses. Day 1: Arrive Lima, Peru Upon arrival in Lima, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Westin Lima Hotel – 1 night
Moche Valley where you will meet a family living a traditional rural life. Explore the Temple of the Moon before stopping for lunch in the seaside town of Huanchaco. Libertador Trujillo – 1 night (B)
Day 2: To Trujillo Early this morning, fly north to Trujillo. Upon arrival, take a brief tour of the gorgeous colonial mansions and ornate churches. Continue to the
Day 3: To Chiclayo This morning, head north to discover the El Brujo pyramid in the Chicama Valley. Rising nearly 100 feet above the surrounding desert, it was built with tens of thousands of adobe
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bricks. Admire the well-preserved reliefs and explore the site before continuing to Chiclayo. Casa Andina Select Chiclayo – 2 nights (B) Day 4: Chiclayo Explore the necropolis of Huaca Rajada, home to the well-known tombs of the Lord of Sipán and Old Lord of Sipán. Continue to the vast archaeological complex of Tucume to survey the remains belonging to a succession of cultures: Mochica, Lambayeque, Chimu and Inca. After a
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Day 6: Amazon Rise early to explore one of the Amazon’s great wilderness regions and the largest protected wetland area in the world, the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Go out on a bird-watching excursion before returning for breakfast. Later this morning, discover some of the secrets of the rainforest with a guided hike in San Isidro, home to one of the richest habitats on earth, including the giant ceiba or kapok tree as well as a fascinating variety of medicinal plants. After lunch back on board, venture deep into the forest aboard small boats to look for pink and grey river dolphins. This evening, why not indulge in some stargazing from the top deck? (B, L, D)
Day 9: To Lima / Depart Rise early to savor breakfast aboard small boats while exploring the narrow Yarapa River. Back on board, relax before enjoying a last lunch on the river. This afternoon, disembark, visit a center for rescued manatees and have an opportunity to see from up close these beautiful creatures. The rescued manatees are rehabilitated with the hope of reintroducing them into their natural habitat. Fly back to Lima to connect with your onward flight. (B, L)
• • • • • • • • •
Explore Peru’s Archaeological north coast Visit the Pyramid of the Moon Admire the ancient city of Chan Chan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Explore El Brujo Pyramid See the Lord of Sipán and the “Señora de Cao” mummy Admire the Amazon forest from 85 feet above the ground on an incredible canopy walkway Fish for Piranhas and spot black caimans Search for pink river dolphins that are indigenous to the Amazon region Visit the Manatee Rescue Center
Extensions • Cusco • Machu Picchu
Trujillo
Day 7: Amazon After breakfast, disembark to get a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest on the incredible canopy walkway that stretches for more than a third of a mile through the treetops. Return to your cruiser via the Tawampa Lake, home to the giant arapaima, the biggest freshwater fish in the world. This afternoon, cruise in small boats to appreciate the lagoons and small waterways of Nauta Caño. Fish for piranhas and then embark on a night safari in search of black caimans, night herons and spectacled owls, and fish bats flying over the water scooping up fish. (B, L, D) Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Lake Titicaca
The Cox & Kings Experience
Handmade Peruvian Dolls, Cusco
Salt Flats, Bolivia
before boarding a hydrofoil to cruise to the islands of the sun and the moon. Delve into the past at ancient Inca temples and palaces, and then head to your boutique eco-lodge on the Island of the Sun. Posada del Inca Eco Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D)
Machu Picchu (Optional Hiram Bingham train). Rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, Machu Picchu is the only known Inca city to remain intact. Take a guided tour of the citadel’s agricultural terraces, royal houses and temples before lunch. In the afternoon, explore the ruins on your own. Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D)
Option: Spend the day trekking the Inca Trail to arrive at Machu Picchu on foot.
Day 11: To Cusco Why not rise early to view the sunrise over the ruins? If you want some unforgettable views, embark on the scenic hike to Huayna Picchu. This afternoon, return by train to Cusco. Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel – 1 night (B, L)
Day 6: To Puno Continue your explorations of the Island of the Sun with a visit to the Inca steps and an old spring that provided water for the community. After lunch in a local restaurant, return to Copacabana and travel onward to Puno. Titilaka – 1 night (B, L)
Lima
Ancient Peru: The Inca Route La Paz, Uyuni, Island of the Sun/Lake Titicaca, Puno, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
1 2 D A Y S & 11 N I G H T S
Day 7: To Cusco Take the stylish Andean Explorer train to Cusco, a scenic journey of approximately ten hours. Relax over lunch with a pisco sour as you pass high Andean peaks, mountain streams, cultivated terraces and small valley towns. Upon arrival in Cusco, transfer to your hotel. La Casona – 3 nights (B, L)
Machu Picchu Cusco
La Paz
Trace the route of the Incas from the islands of the sun and the moon in Lake Titicaca over the Andes to the splendid city of Cusco and the fortresses and villages of the Sacred Valley of Urubamba, an area of outstanding natural beauty set against a backdrop of the Andes Mountains. Then ascend by train to explore the famed Lost City of the Incas. Set on top of a remote mountain surrounded by tropical jungle, the citadel of Machu Picchu is one of the most breathtaking sights in the world.
Day 2: To Uyuni Transfer to the airport for your flight to Uyuni, home to the largest salt flats on earth at 4,086 square miles. After visiting the village of
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Colchani, head to Isla Pescado (Fish Island), which is located in the middle of the salt flats. Luna Salada Hotel – 2 nights (B, L, D) Day 3: Uyuni Embark upon a full-day excursion to Laguna Colorada, a lagoon lying at an altitude of 14,271 ft, famed for its red waters and three types of native flamingo. Eat a picnic lunch, explore the area, and then return to your hotel. (B, L, D)
Day 4: To La Paz After breakfast, fly back to La Paz. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, freshen up and take an afternoon tour of the city. Stannum Boutique Hotel – 1 night (B) Day 5: To the Island of the Sun Journey to the shores of Lake Titicaca, stopping on the way to visit the baroque churches of Juli. In Copacabana, explore the local market
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Day 12: Depart Cusco Early this morning, fly to Lima to meet your onward flight. (B)
Visit Isla Pescado in the world’s largest Salt Flats Cruise across Lake Titicaca Spend a night at an ecolodge on the Island of the Sun Take one of the world’s great train journeys aboard the stylish Andean Explorer Explore the Pre-Columbian Art Museum in Cusco Pay a visit to a community of Peruvian weavers in the Sacred Valley Admire the spectacular Inca fortress at Ollantaytambo Tour the ruins of magical Machu Picchu Stay at the only hotel located inside the citadel of Machu Picchu
Extensions • Galápagos
Ollantaytambo, Peru
Puno Lake Titicaca
Uyuni
Day 1: Arrive La Paz, Bolivia Upon arrival in La Paz, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Stannum Boutique Hotel – 1 night
• • • • • • • • •
Day 8: Cusco After a morning visit to the Inca ceremonial site of Sacsayhuaman, discover Cusco, including the Plaza de Armas and Santo Domingo Monastery, built atop the legendary Koricancha. Then explore the incredible collection of art and artifacts at the Pre-Columbian Art Museum. (B) Day 9: Cusco Pay a special visit to the local community of Inca Trail porters and Peruvian weavers in Willoq. Discover the imposing fortress of Ollantaytambo, an astounding feat of construction and ingenuity. Relish an al fresco lunch of Peruvian BBQ at Wayra Ranch, including a demonstration of horsemanship and a performance of traditional Marinera dance. Then search for treasures at the colorful Pisac handicraft market. (B, L) Day 10: To Machu Picchu Early this morning, board the Vistadome train to Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Extension – Walking the Inca Trail
Private Extensions – Trekking in Peru
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Lares Route: The Weavers Way
Day 1: To Wayllabamba Very early this morning, you’ll be picked up from Cusco and driven to the village of Piskacuchu from where you begin your trek on the Inca Trail by crossing the Urubamba River and walking through the Sacred Valley. Gradually ascend until you reach Wayllabamba at nearly 10,000 feet where you make camp for the night. (B, L, D)
Day 1: To Huacawasi Leave Cusco around 6:00 a.m. for a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley en route to Lares, from where you start your trek. After a dip in the area’s famed hot springs, begin with a leisurely walk through the Trapiche River Valley. Enjoy lunch in the village of Vilcabamba, and then hike onward to Huacawasi, your campsite for the evening. (B, L, D)
Day 2: To Pacaymayo Rise with the sun and begin the most difficult part of the trek. You may spot llamas and alpacas as you climb toward Dead Woman’s Pass at 13,776 feet. Descend into the Pacaymayo Valley where you set up camp. (B, L, D)
Day 2: To Ipsaycocha Lake Spend the morning in the textile community of Huawacasi learning about their traditional weaving techniques and admiring some of their handmade ponchos, wool hats and other garments. After lunch, climb for approximately two hours to Ipsayccasa Pass at nearly 15,000 feet. Enjoy the incredible views before descending gently to your campsite on the shores of beautiful Ipsaycocha Lake. (B, L, D)
5 DAYS & 4 NIGHTS
Lodge to Lodge Treking 7 DAYS & 6 NIGHTS
Day 1: Cusco to Salkantay Lodge Following an introductory briefing the previous night, rise early and depart Cusco. Visit the Inca ruins of Tarawasi before beginning the six-hour, moderately strenuous trek to Soraypampa on an old route called the Camino Real. Salkantay Lodge takes its name from the majestic peak at the head of the valley — Mt. Salkantay, the second most sacred peak in Inca mythology and, at (20,600 feet, the highest in the region. Salkantay Lodge – 2 nights (L, D) Day 2: Humantay Lake Ascend to the chilly waters of Lake Humantay, which is fed by the hanging glaciers of Mount Humantay. After the four-hike hike, return to the lodge for lunch and a leisurely afternoon. (B, L, D) Day 3: Salkantay Pass After an early start, hike up the Rio Blanco valley before reaching Salkantay Pass at more than 15,000 feet. Stop to marvel at the views of the holy peak of Salkantay as well as the snowcapped Vilcabamba Range. Descend toward Wayra Lodge to celebrate your challenging, hike with a hot dinner. Wayra Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D)
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Day 4: Descent Descend into the cloud forest as you feel the warm air rising from the jungle below, accompanied by colorful butterflies and striking orchids. Upon arrival at the Colpa Lodge, enjoy a traditional Pachamanca meal, cooked by layering meat and vegetables with hot stones, and then covering the whole thing up to bake. Colpa Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D) Day 5: Santa Teresa River Valley Hike through this verdant valley, enjoy a picnic lunch by the river and head toward Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail. Lucma Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D) Day 6: Llactapata Pass to Machu Picchu Climb toward Llactapata Pass from which you can see a distant but spectacular vista of Machu Picchu from the southeast, a view few travelers ever get a chance to admire. End the day in Aguas Calientes with a festive dinner. Inkaterra Hotel Machu Picchu – 1 night (B, L, D) Day 7: Machu Picchu Spend the morning exploring the mountaintop citadel of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a late lunch before returning to Cusco this evening. (B, L)
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Day 3: To Wiñaywayna Begin this long day by climbing to the Abra Runkurakay pass at just over 13,000 feet. Descend through cloud forest toward Yanacocha (Black Lagoon) and the complex of Sayacmarca. Travel through an Inca tunnel before arriving at the second pass of the day and the ruins of Abra Phuyupatamarca. A long series of stone steps leads down to Wiñaywayna, an Inca agricultural center. Visit the site and enjoy a festive dinner at your camp. (B, L, D) Day 4: To Machu Picchu Climb to the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu to see the sun rise over the ruins. After exploring the lost city of the Incas, descend to Aguas Calientes to your hotel. Inkaterra Machu Picchu or Sanctuary Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D) Day 5: Machu Picchu / Cusco This morning, a second entrance to Machu Picchu is included along with a guided tour of the citadel. After, you will be transferred back to Aguas Calientes to board the Vista Dome train for your ride back to Cusco. (B)
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 3: To Machu Picchu After breakfast, walk gently downhill to Patacancha, a little community famous for producing stunning, intricate weavings that reflect aspects of their everyday lives. Continue to the traditional Quechua village of Willoq where you’ll be picked up for the trip to the Inca town of Ollantaytombo. Enjoy lunch and then catch your train for the spectacular journey to Aguas Calientes. Inkaterra Machu Picchu – 1 night (B, L, D) Day 4: To Cusco Rise early to catch the sunrise over the magnificent ruins of Machu Picchu. After a guided tour of the site, enjoy some time to explore it on your own. Descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch in a local restaurant before returning to Cusco this evening. (B, L)
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Private Extensions – Peru
Amazon – Hacienda Concepción
Amazon – Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica
Day 1: Arrive Puerto Maldonado Upon arrival, head to the docks where you board a motorized canoe for a journey along the Madre de Dios River. Enjoy lunch followed by a guided walk through the rainforest. At dusk, watch the nocturnal jungle come alive on a canoe excursion. Hacienda Concepción – 3 nights (L, D)
Day 1: Arrive Puerto Maldonado After arriving in Puerto Maldonado, embark on an enchanting 45-minute boat ride. This afternoon, choose your first activity; options include a guided hike and an excursion at twilight to watch the forest transform from day to night. Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica – 3 nights (D)
Day 2: Puerto Maldonado After breakfast, depart on a jungle trek into the Tambopata National Reserve toward Lake Sandoval. Float upon the lake’s waters in a dugout canoe. After lunch at the lodge, ascend into the canopy to walk along the seven hanging bridges and see life above the forest floor. (B, L, D)
Day 2: Puerto Maldonado This morning, travel to the shores of Lake Sandoval, home to the endangered giant river otter, anacondas, red howler monkeys and black caimans. After lunch, take a walk on the canopy walkway as you search for toucans, woodpeckers, monkeys and sloths. (B, L, D)
Day 3: Puerto Maldonado Hit the water again as you try your hand at native fishing techniques before arriving at the remains of the famed Fitzcarrald steam boat. After lunch, explore a river island, do some bird watching and visit a clay lick to observe agoutis, monkeys and peccaries. This evening, embark on a nighttime exploration of the forest. (B, L, D)
Day 3: Puerto Maldonado Board a boat for an exploration of Gamitana Creek, home to many piranha, caiman, turtles and birds. Visit a local farm to see how farmers cultivate the jungle soil. Learn about the medicinal benefits of traditional tropical plants followed by a canoe trip in search of turtles, nightjars and herons. This evening, experience the rainforest at night on a guided tour. (B, L, D)
Day 4: Depart Puerto Maldonado Return to Puerto Maldonado for your onward flight. (B)
Day 4: Depart Puerto Maldonado Return to Puerto Maldonado for your onward flight. (B)
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
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4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Amazon Cruise 4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 1: Arrive Iquitos Upon arrival in Iquitos, meet your guide and travel to Nauta to board your luxurious ship. Enjoy welcome cocktails and dinner to celebrate the beginning of your voyage through the remote Pacaya Samiria Reserve. Delfin I – 3 nights (D) Day 2: Amazon Rise early to explore the pristine flooded jungle. After lunch, venture deep into the reserve on board an aluminum skiff in search of pink and grey river dolphins and monkeys. After dinner tonight, head to the top deck for some stargazing. (B, L D) Day 3: Amazon Climb to the treetops and explore the canopy walkway 85 feet above the forest floor. On the way back to the ship, canoe through Tawampa Lake. This afternoon, cast a line for piranha before embarking on a night safari in search of night herons, owls and fish bats. (B, L, D) Day 4: Depart the Amazon After seeing the spot where the Ucayali and Marañon rivers merge to form the Amazon, visit a local village to learn about life in the Amazon. This afternoon, disembark, visit a manatee rescue center and end your journey back in Iquitos. (B, L)
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Private Extensions – Peru
Peru’s Northern Beaches
Paracas & the Nazca Lines
Arequipa & Colca Canyon
Day 1: Lima / Piura / Mancora From the Peruvian capital of Lima, fly north to Piura. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to the beachside city of Mancora. Head straight for your exclusive, all-suite hotel located directly on the beach. If you like, why not quaff a cocktail in the lounge before indulging in a glorious gourmet dinner? DCO Suites, Lounge and Spa – 3 nights
Day 1: Lima / Paracas This morning, depart Lima for Paracas, a drive of approximately four hours along the PanAmerican Highway. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the city’s sunny weather at your hotel’s pool. This afternoon, board a dune buggy for an excursion deep into the sand dunes of the coast. Libertador Luxury Collection – Paracas – 3 nights (D)
Day 1: Arrive Arequipa Upon arrival in the White City of Arequipa, explore the old quarter of town, visit the beautiful Santa Catalina Convent and tour the museum that houses the famed Juanita child mummy. Libertador Arequipa – 1 night
Day 2: Mancora After a tasty breakfast, hit the water for a morning of humpback whale watching. These cetaceans migrate from the cold waters of Antarctica to the coast of Peru where they reproduce and raise their young. During your excursion, you may witness these magnificent creatures jumping, swimming and diving. Back at your hotel, spend some quality time on the beach. (B)
Day 2: Paracas This morning, board a comfortable speedboat for the trip to the Ballestas Islands, a spectacular marine reserve. Watch sea lions swimming near the boat or sunbathing on the rocks, a variety of Peruvian birds and perhaps even the famous Humboldt penguin. On your way back to shore, you’ll have a great view of the Candelabra, an immense design carved into the cliff overlooking the sea. This afternoon, marvel at the enigmatic Nazca Lines from the sky aboard your light aircraft. (B)
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 3: Mancora The day is yours at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, do some zip lining or take a surfing class from a local expert. More in the mood for relaxation? The spa at your hotel is world class. (B) Day 4: Mancora / Piura / Lima This morning, return to Piura for your flight back to Lima. (B)
3 DAYS & 2 NIGHTS
Day 3: Paracas / Lima After breakfast this morning, depart Paracas and drive south to Ica to visit the oldest distillery in the Americas, La Caravedo, where they’ve been making traditional pisco since 1684. After lunch in a hacienda, return to Lima and connect with your onward flight. (B, L)
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 2: Arequipa / Colca Early this morning, depart Arequipa and climb the slopes of the Chachani Volcano en route to a national park that’s home to groups of vicuñas, the most rare of the South American camelids. In Vizcachani, pause to drink a cup of coca tea to help you to adjust to the altitude. Pass incredible viewpoints of the Andes before arriving in Chivay, a market town in the Colca Valley. Aranwa Pueblito Encantado Hotel – 2 nights (B, L) Day 3: Colca Canyon Depart early to drive to the perfect spot to look down on the incredible Colca Canyon. Watch the legendary condor rise and circle on the morning thermals. Continue to visit the Baroque church in the town of Maca, the incredible mountain vistas of Yanque and the pre-Inca ruins of Uyo-Uyo. (B, L) Day 4: Depart Colca Canyon / Arequipa Drive back to Arequipa for your onward flight. (B, BL)
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Indulge yourself with the Delfin
Experience
Enjoy a unique Expedition Cruise in the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest Let yourself get wowed with our Spacious Suites, Gourmet Dining, Personalized Service, Kayaking, Canopy Walking, Night Safaris, Wildlife Spotting, Village Visits, Swiming near dolphins, All this and more in one of the last nature havens in the world. www.delfinamazoncruises.com
Private Journey
Private Journey
Bartolome Island, Galápagos
The Cox & Kings Experience
Traditional Quechua Hat
temples before lunch. In the afternoon, explore the ruins on your own. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Hotel – 1 night (B, L, D)
the Galápagos Explorer II. Estimated to be some three million years old, the Galápagos Islands are home to fascinating endemic wildlife and flora. Grand Odyssey – 4 nights (B, L, D)
Days 11 – 13: Galápagos Islands Cruise Spend three days exploring these magical islands. Land on the northwest side of Santa Cruz to see the land iguanas of Cerro Dragon. Search for Galápagos penguins on Bartolomé Island and ascend to its volcanic summit for incredible views. On Isabela Island, marvel at iconic blue-footed boobies as sea lions laze on the beach. (B, L, D)
Day 5: To Cusco The morning is at leisure. Why not rise early to view the sunrise over the ruins? Then explore the citadel on your own. If you want some unforgettable views, embark on the scenic hike to Huayna Picchu. This afternoon, return by train through the Urubamba Valley to Cusco. Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel – 2 nights (B)
Peru & Galápagos: Legends & Explorations
Quito Galápagos Islands
Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Quito & Galápagos Islands 15 D A Y S & 14 N I G H T S
Lima
Machu Picchu Sacred Valley Cusco
Journey from the Andes to the islands as you discover the secrets of the ancient Inca, the patrimony of Peru’s colonial heritage and the natural laboratory of the Galápagos Islands, which fueled Darwin’s work on the origin of the species. Visit churches and mansions built by Spanish conquistadors, imposing Inca fortresses and the fabled mountaintop Lost City of Machu Picchu. Then marvel at the endemic flora and fauna of the remote, volcanic Galápagos Islands as you cruise in style aboard your comfortable expedition ship. Day 1: Arrive Lima Upon arrival in Lima, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Casa Andina Private Collection – 1 night Day 2: To The Sacred Valley (Urubamba) Board your flight to Cusco and venture into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Stop en route at the massive fortress of Sacsayhuaman to
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admire its monumental stones and the ingenious architecture of the Incas and the charming Pisac market. Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort – 2 nights (B, L) Day 3: The Sacred Valley (Urubamba) Enjoy a morning at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, take an optional horseback ride, guided hike or go white-water rafting. This afternoon, pay a visit to the local community of
Inca Trail porters and Peruvian weavers in Willoq and connect with the living culture of the villagers. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about their traditional ways of life. Or visit the fortress of Ollantaytambo to admire this important Inca site. (B) Day 4: To Machu Picchu Early this morning, board the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu. Take a guided tour of the citadel’s agricultural terraces, royal houses and
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Hercules Costume, Cusco
Day 6: Cusco Explore the city on a morning tour. After visiting Santo Domingo Monastery, built atop the legendary Koricancha — the most revered Inca temple devoted to the worship of the sun whose walls were plated with sheets of gold — continue to the lovely San Blas neighborhood. On the way back to your hotel, pass by Hatunrumiyoc Street with its famed twelve-angle stone and visit the ornate cathedral at the Plaza de Armas. (B) Day 7: To Lima This morning, fly to Lima. Take an afternoon tour of the city’s highlights, including Casa Aliaga, South America’s best-preserved colonial mansion, continuously occupied by the same family since 1535. Casa Andina Private Collection – 1 night (B)
Day 14: To Quito On your final day in the Galápagos, stop at the attractive port of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and visit the San Cristóbal Interpretation Center to learn more about the formation of the islands and their endemic wildlife. Return to Quito this afternoon. Le Parc – 1 night (B, L, D)
• • • • • •
Savor lunch with a local ornithologist in his private hummingbird garden Explore the monumental fortress of Sacsayhuaman Discover the mountaintop citadel of Machu Picchu Cruise the Galápagos Islands aboard your Deluxe Expedition Yacht Go ashore on several islands to search for bluefooted boobies, marine iguana, sea lions and Darwin’s finches Wander through the ornate rooms of Casa Aliaga, South America’s best- preserved colonial mansion
Extensions • Extend your Galápagos cruise • Easter Island • Inca Trail • Colca Canyon • Amazon River
Day 15: Depart Quito Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B) Family at Galápagos
Day 8: To Quito, Ecuador This morning, fly to Quito, where you are met and transferred to your hotel. Le Parc – 2 nights (B) Day 9: Quito Venture outside the city onto the western slopes of the majestic Andes. Savor an exclusive lunch at the home of a local ornithologist in the Tandayapa cloud forest where you will witness a colorful profusion of hummingbirds. (B, L) Day 10: To Baltra / Galápagos Islands Cruise This morning, fly to the island of Baltra to board Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey Cotopaxi Volcano
The Cox & Kings Experience
Ecuador & Galápagos: Avenue of the Volcanoes
Galápagos Islands Quito Cotopaxi
Quito, Avenue of the Volcanoes, Hacienda San Agustin de Callo, Cuenca & Galápagos Islands
1 2 D A Y S & 11 N I G H T S
Cuenca
Discover the wonders of Ecuador, from the heart of the Andes through the Avenue of the Volcanoes to the magical Galápagos Islands. Begin in colonial Quito before traveling to a historic hacienda near Cotopaxi National Park. Ride horses and hike through the spectacular terrain before heading to the lovely city of Cuenca for a cruise along the pretty Tomebamba River. Then fly to the Galápagos Islands where you’ll spend four full days getting to know the local sea lions and blue-footed boobies. Day 1: Arrive Quito Upon arrival in Quito, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Patio Andaluz or Casa Gangotena – 1 night Day 2: To Cotopaxi This morning, stroll down charming La Ronda Street, the oldest street in the city. Discover the baroque architecture of La Compañia church and
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expansive Independence Square. After a stop at the site of the signing of Ecuador’s declaration of independence, savor lunch at a local restaurant. Then, travel via the scenic Avenue of the Volcanoes to historic Hacienda San Agustin de Callo, which was built on the site of an Inca palace in 1480. After checking in, relax and explore the historic home and the beautiful grounds before enjoying dinner. Hacienda San Agustin de Callo – 2 nights (B, L, D)
Day 3: Cotopaxi National Park Enjoy a day of outdoor activities in this wonderfully scenic area. Hike or ride on horseback along the trails in Cotopaxi National Park. Then, savor a picnic lunch in the foothills of the Cotopaxi volcano, the highest active volcano in the world. If you like, visit one of the colorful local markets to shop for traditional handicrafts. Return to your hacienda this evening for another delightful dinner. (B, L, D)
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Cuenca Flower Market
Ingapirca, Ecuador
Day 4: To Cuenca Return to Quito to catch your flight to the university city of Cuenca. Upon arrival, embark on a walking tour of the lovely old section of the city where you’ll see the 19th-century blue-domed cathedral, gracious mansions with wrought iron balconies, art galleries, handicraft markets and flower stalls. Then board a boat for a relaxing cruise along the Tomebamba River to see the ancient houses of the city perched along the banks of the river. Mansion Alcazar – 2 nights (B, L)
sea lions, giant tortoises, blue- and red-footed boobies and the great frigate bird. Swim and snorkel in the clear, blue waters, and walk along rocky beaches. Hike through rugged, volcanic landscapes and marvel at incredible views of the islands and the sea. Throughout your explorations, you’ll be accompanied by an expert naturalist guide. (B, L, D)
Day 11: To Quito Bid farewell to the islands as you disembark your ship and fly back to Quito. Upon arrival, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore the city on your own. This evening, why not celebrate your journey through Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands with a festive dinner at one of the city’s traditional restaurants? Patio Andaluz or Casa Gangotena – 1 night (B)
Day 5: Ingapirca Inca Ruins Head out of town for a full-day exploration of the ruins at Ingapirca, the largest known Inca site in Ecuador. On the way, marvel at the gorgeous, verdant valley landscapes and stop in several charming villages. After exploring the grand Temple of the Sun and soaking up the atmosphere at this historic site, savor a traditional lunch at a local farm. Return to Cuenca this afternoon. This evening, why not head out on the town for dinner at one of the city’s acclaimed restaurants? (B, L)
Day 12: Depart Quito Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • • •
Ride in the foothills of the Cotopaxi volcano Explore colonial Quito Discover the majestic Ecuadorian Andes Visit indigenous textile and food markets for some local flavor Soak up the atmosphere in the lovely city of Cuenca Wander through the largest Inca ruins in Ecuador Spend four full days cruising the magical Galápagos Islands Swim with sea lions and hike to visit giant tortoises
Extensions • Napo Wildlife Center in the Amazon • Mindo Cloud Forest • Antizana Reserve • Extend your Galápagos cruise • Machu Picchu
Cathedral, Cuenca
Day 6: To Quito After a morning at leisure to do some exploring of your own in this beautiful city, head to the airport for your flight back to Quito. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. This evening, relax and get ready to depart for the Galápagos Islands tomorrow! Patio Andaluz or Casa Gangotena – 1 night (B) Day 7: To the Galápagos Islands This morning, fly to Guayaquil and then the Galápagos Islands to board your ship. Estimated to be some three million years old, the Galápagos Islands are home to a multitude of endemic fauna and flora. La Pinta Yacht – 4 nights (B, L, D) Days 8 – 10: Galápagos Islands Cruise Spend four days discovering the wonders of these magical islands. Spot marine iguanas, Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Extensions – Ecuador
Sacha Lodge 4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 1: Quito / Coca / Sacha Lodge Upon arrival in the Amazon, take a cooling dip in the black waters of Lake Pilchicocha. Climb a viewing tower to look for vibrant tropical birds, and stay for the sunset. After dinner, join your guide for a nocturnal exploration of the forest or an evening paddle on the lake. Sacha Lodge – 3 nights (D) Days 2 & 3: Sacha Lodge Spend your days getting to know the pristine rainforest environment that surrounds Sacha Lodge. Ascend into the canopy to walk among the treetops and spot dozens of species of tropical birds and animals seldom seen from the ground. Take a walk with a local guide to learn about the traditional medicine of the forest. Embark on a canoe ride in search of anacondas, caimans and large capybaras. Fish for piranha, look for monkeys and three-toed sloths and climb another observation tower for some spectacular views. End your time here with an enchanting evening canoe ride through the flooded forest. (B, L, D) Day 4: Depart Sacha Lodge Depart the lodge for the Coca airport and your flight to Quito. (B)
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Napo Wildlife Center 4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 1: Quito / Coca / Napo Wildlife Center During your journey by plane, motorboat and dugout canoe along the Napo River, keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, toucans, parrots and macaws. Upon arrival at the Napo Wildlife Center—the ultimate eco-lodge in the Ecuadorian Amazon—savor a welcome drink and dinner. If you like, embark on a nocturnal boat trip in search of caimans. Napo Wildlife Center – 3 nights (D) Days 2 & 3: Napo Wildlife Center Immerse yourself in one of the world’s great wildernesses as you experience the majesty of the Amazon rainforest. Take a short trip to a parrot clay lick where you may see a total of 11 different species of parrots, parakeets and macaws. Walk along a forest trail to visit a native Kichwa family and learn about their customs and traditions. Climb more than 100 feet into the forest canopy to see views formerly reserved only for the birds. Hike through the forest in search of golden mantle tamarin monkeys, and watch for giant otters on a ride around the lake. (B, L, D) Day 4: Depart Napo Wildlife Center Depart the center by river for the Coca airport and your flight to Quito. (B)
Mashpi Lodge 3 DAYS & 2 NIGHTS
Day 1: Quito / Mashpi Lodge Descend by road from Quito toward the Mashpi Rainforest Biodiversity Reserve and stop to observe and learn about hummingbirds before reaching your lodge. After lunch, begin your exploration of the forest with your expert naturalist guides. Mashpi Lodge – 2 nights (D) Day 2: Mashpi Lodge The Mashpi Lodge offers a wide range of activities that you can customize based on your interest. If you like, embark on an early-morning hike to see the forest waking up, and attempt to spot the many endemic birds. Spend some time on the walking trails around the lodge where you can get up close and personal with the primeval jungle. Hike to a waterfall, watch tropical birds perform courtship dances, learn about medicinal plants, climb to the top of the observation tower and explore the forest at night to complete your jungle experience. (B, L, D) Day 3: Depart Mashpi Lodge After an early morning excursion, enjoy breakfast at the lodge followed by some time to simply soak up the natural ambiance of the forest. On your way back to Quito, stop at the intriguing archaeological site of Tulipe. (B)
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Private Extensions – Ecuador
La Selva Lodge 4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 1: Quito / Coca / La Selva Lodge From Quito, fly to Coca and then board a motorized canoe for the beginning of your riverine adventure. With your naturalist guide, travel on the Napo River toward La Selva Lodge, home to many trails, an observation tower, and a large butterfly farm. This afternoon, take a guided walk with a naturalist to learn more about the flora and fauna of the jungle. After dinner, venture out on a nocturnal exploration of the forest. La Selva Lodge – 3 nights (D) Days 2 & 3: La Selva Lodge Spend an unforgettable two full days in the jungle. Ascend 135 feet into the jungle canopy as you climb an observation tower for incredible views, hike to the edge of a lagoon to learn about medicinal plants of the rainforest, spot squirrel monkeys cavorting in the trees, search for caimans on an evening canoe ride, observe parrots and parakeets at a clay lick, visit a native Kichwa village, cruise around Garzacocha Lake and look for herons fishing in the shallow waters. (B, L, D) Day 4: Depart La Selva Lodge Depart the lodge by river for the Coca airport and your flight to Quito. (B)
M/V Anakonda Amazon Cruise 4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 1: Quito / Coca / Napo River / Yasuni National Park Fly from Quito to Coca where you transfer to the Napo River for a downstream trip to your home for the next three nights, the M/V Anakonda. Board your ship and watch the forest pass by from the comfortable sundeck. After dinner, embark on a nocturnal walk into the forest. M/V Anakonda – 3 nights (D) Day 2: Amazon Continue downstream toward the Pañayacu River delta where you’ll board a canoe to search for pink river dolphins, squirrel monkeys and tropical birds. After visiting Piranha Lake, relish a delicious Amazonian barbeque. This afternoon, take a guided walk along a forest trail. (B, L, D) Day 3: Amazon Disembark the ship to visit a local village before traveling to a parrot clay lick. After lunch, take another jungle hike and learn about some of the local fauna. If conditions permit, paddle downstream to the Napo River to your ship. (B, L, D) Day 4: Depart Amazon Bid farewell to your ship, and take a canoe back to Coca from where you fly to Quito. (B)
Spirit of the Andes 4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 1: Quito / Patate Depart Quito on the Pan-American Highway heading south to Cotopaxi National Park and the magnificent Cotopaxi volcano. Dine in a restored hacienda at the foot of the volcano before continuing to Patate. Hacienda Leito – 1 night (L, D) Day 2: To Riobamba Discover an incredible waterfall before enjoying lunch in a hacienda. This afternoon, take a stroll around the resort town of Baños. Then climb past terraced fields toward Riobamba. Hacienda Abraspungo – 1 night (B, L, D) Day 3: To Cuenca Travel through Indian villages alongside the flanks of the Andes on your way to Alausí. Ride the restored train on a thrilling journey down the mountainside and back up again. Delve into the history of the Incas at the fortress of Ingapirca before arriving in Cuenca. Santa Lucia Hotel – 1 night (B, L, D) Day 4: Depart Cuenca Spend the day exploring Cuenca. After lunch, visit a ceramics studio and textile workshop before heading to the airport for your onward flight. (B, L)
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Sea Lion, Galápagos
Galápagos Ships Delve into the wonders of nature’s own laboratory as you visit the enchanted islands of the Galápagos. Swim with sea lions and dolphins, hike through volcanic terrain alongside giant tortoises and watch the skies for Galápagos hawks and Darwin’s finches. Trace the course of evolution itself as you cruise aboard one of these luxurious vessels, which we have carefully chosen for our journeys. For other vessel recommendations, please contact our Latin America destination specialist. YACHT LA PINTA Embark upon the ultimate luxurious Galápagos expedition adventure aboard Yacht La Pinta, a 207-foot yacht that accommodates 48 travelers. In addition to the elegant accommodations, you’ll enjoy world-class dining, personalized service and many other amenities. Expert naturalist guides enhance your experience of this remarkable archipelago with shipboard briefings and on-theground interpretation. Throughout your journey, indulge your spirit of adventure while traveling safely and comfortably through the islands that made Charles Darwin famous.
M/Y GRAND ODYSSEY Enjoy a unique blend of luxury, privacy and style aboard the Grand Odyssey, which features nine spacious suites all equipped with private bathroom, air-conditioning with independent controls, mini-bar, television and large panoramic windows that allow you to appreciate the beauty of the glittering seas and stunning, rugged islands. Savor your meals in the comfortable dining room, relax on a sun lounger in the solarium with shaded area, soak away your cares in the Jacuzzi and discuss the sightings of the day in the friendly saloon.
M/C OCEAN SPRAY The Mega-Catamaran Ocean Spray delivers top-notch performance and comfort for your cruise among the Galápagos Islands. Spot sea lions, blue-footed boobies, magnificent frigate birds and even dolphins from the huge sundeck. Then relax in the Jacuzzi or on the private balcony of your spacious cabin. With space for 16 travelers, the Ocean Spray’s speed, luxury, friendly and experienced crew, expert naturalist guides and fine international cuisine all make it a great choice for your Galápagos cruise adventure.
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Jaguar, Pantanal
The Cox & Kings Experience Fishing Piranhas, Pantanal
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Day 5: To the Amazon Venture into the heart of the Amazon and explore a remote archipelago of islands, lakes and canals. This evening, board a canoe to search for caiman by flashlight in the shallow waters near the riverbanks. Anavilhanas Lodge – 3 nights (B, D)
and watch the vibrant sunset over Siá Mariana Bay. (B, L, D)
Day 6: Amazon Take a guided hike through the forest and learn about medicinal plants, traditional sources of food and life in the jungle from your expert local guide. Return to your remote lodge by canoe. This afternoon, enjoy a special opportunity to swim with endangered Amazonian dolphins. (B, L, D)
Manaus
Day 7: Amazon Just before sunrise, venture out into the still cool jungle for some bird watching. Then take a fun and exciting class in the art of archery from local Waimiri-Atroari instructors. This afternoon, continue your immersion in local culture as you visit a nearby village. (B, L, D)
Amazon
Brazil: A Wildlife Safari Rio de Janeiro, Amazon, Pantanal & Iguassu Falls
13 D A Y S & 1 2 N I G H T S
Pantanal
Cuiabá Sao Paulo Rio de Janeiro
Iguassu Falls
Get up close and personal with some of Brazil’s most spectacular wild places on this fun, family-friendly journey. After exploring the beaches, urban forests and nightlife of cosmopolitan Rio, travel north to the great Amazon rainforest for three days of jungle immersion at a remote lodge near the banks of the great river. Then head to the marshlands of the Pantanal to spot capybaras, monkeys and a wide variety of birds before ending your adventure at the thundering cascades of magnificent Iguassu Falls. Day 1: Arrive Rio Upon arrival in Rio, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, ascend Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the city’s stunning natural setting and the bays. Savor a delicious dinner at one of the city’s most elegant restaurants. Hotel Windsor Atlantica or Copacabana Palace – 3 nights (D)
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Day 2: Rio Embark upon a morning walking tour of the historic center of the city. Discover the lovely colonial mansions, the São Bento Monastery, the imperial palace and Carioca Square. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the city on your own. (B) Day 3: Rio Today, embark on an exciting journey to Tijuca National Park and majestic Corcovado Hill, home
of the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. This evening, enjoy some Brazilian nightlife at one of the city’s hottest clubs. (B) Day 4: To Manaus This morning, fly north to Manaus. Embark on an afternoon tour of the city, including São Sebastião Square, the Palácio Rio Negro, the floating harbor, the bustling municipal market and the grand Opera House. Tropical Manaus – 1 night (B)
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Day 11: To Iguassu Falls Return to Cuiabá for your flight to Iguassu Falls via Sao Paulo. After checking in to your hotel, take a guided walking tour of the Brazilian side of the falls. If you like, ride an elevator up to the top of the falls for a bird’s-eye perspective of this natural wonder. Hotel das Cataratas – 2 nights (B) Day 12: Iguassu Falls Cross the border to see the falls from the Argentinean side, including a guided walk and a train that will take you to the thundering Devil’s Throat cascades. Then prepare to get drenched as you take a thrilling boat ride to the base of the falls. (B) Day 13: Depart Iguassu Falls Transfer to the airport this morning to catch your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • • • • •
Swim with Amazonian river dolphins Take a cable car to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio Experience sunrise and sunset in the jungle Search for caimans from a traditional canoe Take an archery lesson with native bows Spot giant otters and howler monkeys in the Pantanal Visit a remote jungle village Marvel at a nesting site for hundreds of white egrets Try your hand at piranha fishing Experience the majesty of thundering Iguassu Falls
Extensions • Salvador • Buenos Aires
Day 8: To the Pantanal Head back to Manaus for your flight to Cuiabá, on the edge of the Pantanal. Keep your eyes open for wildlife on the scenic drive to your comfortable lodge. Pousada Rio Mutum – 3 nights (B, D)
Iguassu Falls
Day 9: Pantanal Embark on a guided walk through the marshlands to see native wildlife and one of the largest concentrations of birdlife anywhere in the world. This afternoon, hit the river to search for giant otters, stingrays and huge schools of fish. Watch for howler monkeys and black vultures in the trees. Then hop aboard a horse for a ride through the forest. After dinner, venture into the jungle to spot nocturnal animals. (B, L, D) Day 10: Pantanal Pay a visit to a nesting site for wood storks and lovely white egrets. This afternoon, enjoy a trip on the Mutum River, stopping to fish for piranha Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Carnival Characters, Salvador
The Cox & Kings Experience Paraty, Brazil
Pelourinho, Salvador
city. Upon arrival, drive to the colonial gem of Ouro Preto, made famous by the frenetic Brazilian gold rush and its proximity to the mines. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once a center for the Brazilian independence movement. Check in to your historic hotel, which is housed in an opulent 19th-century mansion. Hotel Solar do Rosario – 3 nights (B)
concert of baroque music before eating lunch at one of the town’s most popular restaurants. This afternoon, fly to Rio and then drive to the colonial town of Paraty, founded in the 17th century as a hub for transporting gold from the nearby mines. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Pousada do Sandi – 2 nights (B, L)
Day 5: Ouro Preto Immerse yourself in the splendor of Ouro Preto, including the lavish architecture of the Church of Our Lady of Pilar, the beautiful San Francisco de Assisi church and the Opera House. Visit the Museum of Mines and delve into the history of the country in the Museum of Betrayal, which is housed in an atmospheric old prison. Sample some regional cuisine at a local restaurant before enjoying the afternoon at leisure to do some more exploring on your own. (B, L) Salvador
Brazil: Colonial Roots 10 D A Y S & 9 N I G H T S
Tiradentes & Paraty
Salvador, Ouro Preto,
Belo Horizonte Tiradentes Paraty
Ouro Preto Rio de Janeiro
Explore the history of the people who came to Brazil during the sugarcane boom and the gold rush. Begin your journey with an exploration of the colonial jewel of Salvador. Wander around the UNESCO World Heritage city of Ouro Preto with its grand mansions and lovely architecture. Go underground to discover the legendary Passagem gold mine. And in Paraty, take a hike through the lush forest and sample some of the local libations at a cachaça distillery. Day 1: Arrive Salvador Upon arrival in the vibrant colonial city of Salvador, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. This historic city offers a vibrant African-influenced culture and some of the finest beaches. Convento do Carmo – 3 nights Day 2: Salvador Embark upon a tour of the historic sections of the city. Walk through the cobblestone streets of
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the Pelourinho district, the city’s old town, which has been listed as a UNESCO site. Discover Sao Francisco church, the municipal square and the baroque cathedral — and search for colorful treasures at the Mercado Modelo. Savor a traditional Bahian lunch. This afternoon, visit the fascinating Afro-Brazilian Museum, which traces the influence of African culture on traditional and modern-day Brazil. Stop at the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, begun in the 17th century as a church for the African population of Salvador. (B, L)
Day 10: Depart Rio De Janeiro Transfer to the Rio airport to catch your onward flight. (B)
Extensions • Amazon • Iguassu Falls • Rio de Janeiro
Day 6: Ouro Preto Embark on a scenic drive to the charming town of Mariana; upon arrival, take a guided walk down its picturesque streets. Then go underground on an unforgettable exploration of the Passagem gold mine, including a visit to a subterranean lake and a lesson in panning for gold. Enjoy lunch before returning to Ouro Preto for an afternoon of leisure. (B, L)
Day 3: Salvador Enjoy a full day at leisure in the lovely seaside city of Salvador. This evening, savor a tasty Bahian buffet made up of traditional specialties. After dinner, sit back, relax and marvel at a spectacular exhibition of the dances of Bahia. (B, D)
Day 7: To Tiradentes Depart for a full-day excursion that begins in Congonhas do Campo where you can admire famed sculptor Aleijadinho’s fantastic Stations of the Cross. Continue to the gold rush city of São João Del Rey. Savor lunch in a local restaurant before departing for the 17th century mining town of Tiradentes. Pousada Villa Alegra – 1 night (B, L)
Day 4: To Belo Horizonte / Ouro Preto After breakfast, fly to Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais state and Brazil’s first planned
Day 8: To Paraty Explore the churches, museums and landmarks of the village of Tiradentes. Enjoy a delightful
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Day 9: Paraty Hike through the forest to arrive at a glittering waterfall and take a dip in a refreshing pool. Learn about the history of the gold trade, and then take a tour of a local distillery of cachaça, the national Brazilian liquor made from sugar cane. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before returning to the city for an afternoon walking tour. This evening is yours to continue your discovery of one of Brazil’s prettiest towns. (B, L)
• Hike through the forest to a waterfall with your guide • Savor a performance of the dances of Bahia • Bargain with vendors at the handicraft market in Salvador • Immerse yourself in the colonial splendor of Ouro Preto • Visit an underground lake and learn how to pan for gold in the Passagem mine • Marvel at Aleijadinho’s fantastic Stations of the Cross • Enjoy a performance of baroque music in Tiradentes • Take a tour of a cachaça distillery
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Sao Francisco
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Pedra Furada, Jericoacoara
The Cox & Kings Experience
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
Salvador, Brazil
natural pool, enjoy incredible views of the Chapada mountains and explore two local caves. (B)
Day 11: Parnaíba Take a speedboat tour through the delta, visiting Canary Island, Poldros Islands and a mangrove swamp. Stop along the way to swim on deserted beaches. This afternoon, relax on the gorgeous, remote beaches of Luis Correia. (B)
Day 5: Chapada Diamantina Embark on a drive to the famed Poço Encantado (enchanted well), which features a lovely lake inside a cave. Travel on to Mucuge, a small town in the middle of the park. After visiting a local conservation organization, marvel at the Tiburtino waterfall. If there’s time, explore the ghost town of Xique Xique de Igatu, once home to more than 15,000 people during the diamond rush. (B) Day 6: Chapada Diamantina Savor a day at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, many optional activities can be arranged. Why not take a guided hike to several nearby waterfalls, rivers or caves? (B) Lençóis Maranhenses
Contrasts of Northern Brazil
Sao Luis
Parnaíba
Jericoacoara Fortaleza
Salvador, Chapada Diamantina National Park, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park & Jericoacoara 14 D A Y S & 13 N I G H T S
Chapada Diamantina
Salvador
Discover the extensive natural and cultural wonders of Brazil’s impressive northern states. Begin your journey by soaking up the atmosphere in the gorgeous colonial city of Salvador de Bahia. Explore the cave systems, thundering waterfalls, placid pools and lush forests of Chapada Diamantina National Park. Walk atop the majestic sand dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and discover its beautiful desert lagoons. Then travel down the Parnaíba River before ending your journey with some R and R on the lovely beaches of idyllic Jericoacoara. Day 1: Arrive Salvador Upon arrival in the Colonia city of Salvador, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. This historic city offers a vibrant African-influenced culture and some of the finest beaches. This evening, enjoy a traditional Bahian buffet. After dinner, marvel at a spectacular exhibition of the dances of Bahia. Hotel Pestana Convento do Carmo – 2 nights (D)
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Day 2: Salvador Embark upon a tour of the historic sections of the city. Walk through the cobblestone streets of the Pelourinho district, the city’s old town, which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend some time in famed Pelourinho Square in the heart of the old city. Discover Sao Francisco church, the municipal square and the baroque cathedral — and search for treasures at the Mercado Modelo. (B)
Day 3: To Chapada Diamantina Depart early this morning for a scenic, full-day drive to Chapada Diamantina, Brazil’s largest national park. Upon arrival in Lençóis, known as the diamond city, check in to your hotel. Pousada Canto das Águas – 4 nights (B) Day 4: Chapada Diamantina Immerse yourself in the glorious natural surroundings of the national park. Swim in a large,
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Day 7: To Sao Luis Return to Salvador for your flight to Sao Luis, the friendly capital of Maranhão state, and gateway to the beaches and national parks of the northeast. Hotel Pestana Sao Luis – 1 night (B)
Day 12: To Jericoacoara After a leisurely morning, drive to Jericoacoara, crossing several rivers and seeing local villages along the way. Hotel Mosquito Blue – 2 nights (B) Day 13: Jericoacoara Soak up the idyllic scenery of one of the prettiest beach areas in Brazil. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters and just relax amid the natural splendor. Then, spend some time at the archaeological site of Pedra Furada. (B) Day 14: Depart Fortaleza Transfer to the Fortaleza airport this morning to catch your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • • •
Discover the spectacular dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park Savor a performance of the traditional dances of Bahia Bargain for handicrafts at the lively market in Salvador Marvel at the Blue Cave and the Poço Encantado in Chapada Diamantina Park Hike through the gorgeous forest in Chapada Diamantina Take a refreshing dip in a peaceful desert lagoon Explore the Parnaíba River delta by speedboat Kick back and relax on Jericoacoara’s idyllic white-sand beaches
Extensions • Amazon • Iguassu Falls • Rio de Janeiro • Fernando de Noronha
Natural Swimming Pool, Chapada Diamantina
Day 8: To Barreirinhas Drive to your lodge on the banks of the Preguiças River. Hotel Porto Preguiças Resort – 1 night (B) Day 9: To Lençóis Maranhenses National Park Embark in 4x4 vehicles to venture into the great dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Walk along the dunes and take some time to swim in the sky blue lagoons. After lunch (on your own), take a boat trip along the Preguiças River, stopping at a small village, a lighthouse and a pretty beach before arriving at your hotel. Pousada Porto Buriti – 1 night (B) Day 10: To Parnaíba Continue your journey, stopping at Rio Novo, a desert beach and a lake. Upon arrival in Parnaíba, enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Pousada dos Ventos – 2 nights (B) Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Extensions – Brazil
Paraty
Private Extensions – Brazil
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Buzios
The Pantanal
Amazon Ecopark Lodge
Amazon River Cruise
Anavilhanas
Day 1: Rio de Janeiro / Paraty Upon arrival in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Paraty, one of Brazil’s first planned urban projects, explore the narrow cobbled streets, which are arranged in channels to allow the seawater to wash the streets at high tide. You’ll see the highlights of the colonial section of town before returning to the hotel to freshen up. This evening, enjoy a cooking demonstration and dinner at the acclaimed Yara Roberts Academy of Cooking. Pousada do Sandi – 3 nights (D)
Day 1: Rio de Janeiro / Buzios Depart Rio for Buzios, known locally as the Brazilian St. Tropez. Upon arrival, embark on an open-air trolley tour of its beaches and hotspots. Casas Brancas Boutique Hotel & Spa or Insolito Boutique Hotel – 3 nights
Day 1: To the Pantanal Upon arrival in Cuiabá, head for the SouthWild Pantanal, an intimate ecolodge that sits on the banks of the wildlife-rich Pixaim River. SouthWild Ecolodge – 1 night (D)
Day 1: Manaus / Amazon From Manaus, board a boat for the half-hour trip to the Rio Tarumã, a tributary of the Rio Negro. Upon arrival at the Amazon Ecopark Lodge, settle in to your room and then gather for dinner and an evening canoe ride to search for caiman. Amazon Ecopark Lodge – 3 nights (D)
Day 1: Manaus / Embark Set sail from the port of Manaus this afternoon. Enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner this evening. Iberostar Grand Amazon – 4 nights (D)
Day 1: Manaus / Amazon Leave Manaus for your jungle lodge. Upon arrival, get situated in your room before embarking on a tour of the Anavilhanas islands in wooden canoes. This evening, go out on a nocturnal search for caiman. Anavilhanas Lodge – 3 nights (D)
Day 2: Paraty Embark on a schooner for a leisurely cruise on the Paraty Bay. Make several stops for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling — or just enjoy the food, drink and incredible views while on board. This evening, why not head out on the town? (B, L) Day 3: Paraty Travel to the Serra da Bocaina National Park, home to a gorgeous waterfall, an interpretive trail detailing the history of gold mining and a cachaça distillery. After lunch, take a garden tour before returning to Paraty. (B, L) Day 4: Depart Paraty Return to Rio for your onward flight. (B)
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Day 2: Buzios Board a schooner for a morning trip upon the crystal-clear waters of Buzios. Take a dip, do some snorkeling, try your hand at fishing or just enjoy some snacks and cool drinks as you cruise to one of the area’s incredible beaches. This evening, why not enjoy a night out on the town? (B) Day 3: Buzios Board a boat for a cruise to some of the highlights of the Arraial do Cabo area, including Farol Island, the lovely Blue Grotto and magnificent Forno Beach. Make a stop at São Mateus Fort and the historic center of Cabo Frio, dotted with elegant colonial houses from the early part of the 19th century. Do some shopping in town before heading back to Buzios for the evening. (B) Day 4: Depart Buzios Enjoy a morning at leisure before returning to Rio de Janeiro airport. (B)
6 DAYS & 5 NIGHTS
Days 2-4: The Pantanal The Pantanal is a seasonally flooded mosaic of savannahs and tropical forests that offers the finest wildlife viewing in the New World. Venture deep into its wild core in search of caimans, capybaras, giant otters and the majestic jaguar — the undisputed king of the Latin American jungle. Cruise the waters with your naturalist guide as you look for wildlife, spot some of the 400 species of native birds as you stroll on forested trails and take a dip in the cool waters of the Piquirí River. Jaguar Suites – 3 nights (B, L, D)
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 2: Amazon Travel downstream on the Rio Negro past the city of Manaus. You’ll see the worldfamous Amazonas Theater, the port and the neighborhoods of stilted houses along the riverbanks. Arrive at the spot where the Negro and Solimões rivers meet to form the Amazon. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. (B, L, D)
5 DAYS & 4 NIGHTS
Day 2: Jaraqui Stream & Tres Bocas Island Explore the Jaraqui region by boat or foot to learn about the flora and fauna of the Amazon. After lunch, visit the islands of Anavilhanas, including the dense jungle of Tres Bocas, home to toucans and macaws. (B, L, D) Day 3: Novo Airao & Cuieiras River Disembark to visit a riverfront village and look for pink river dolphins. This afternoon, meet the inhabitants of Cambebas, an indigenous village with a bustling market. (B, L, D)
Day 5: Return to SouthWild Pantanal Travel by river and road back to SouthWild Pantanal where you can spend the afternoon fishing for piranha or riding on horseback. SouthWild Ecolodge – 1 night (B, L, D)
Day 3: Amazon Visit an animal rehabilitation center known as Monkey Island. You’ll arrive at feeding time when you can watch the monkeys eat and cavort in the trees. Then join your expert guide in a canoe to visit some local homes and learn about the lives of Amazonian natives. (B, L, D)
Day 4: Ariau River & Praia Grande Take a pre-dawn excursion on the river. Do some fishing and search for monkeys near Praia Grande. This afternoon, take a dip in the Rio Negro before returning to your ship for a gala farewell dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 6: Depart the Pantanal After breakfast this morning, transfer to Cuiabá for your onward flight. (B)
Day 4: Depart the Amazon After a leisurely morning, head back to Manaus to connect with your onward flight. (B)
Day 5: Disembark See the incredible Meeting of the Waters at sunrise before disembarking in Manaus. (B)
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4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 2: Amazon Join your local guide to explore the Amazon rainforest. As you stroll through the primeval jungle, you’ll learn about native trees, medicinal plants and life in the forest. After lunch, travel to the Rio Negro for a unique opportunity to swim with pink river dolphins. (B, L, D) Day 3: Amazon Rise early to see the sunrise and do some bird watching at a nearby lake. After breakfast, embark in wooden canoes to try your hand at fishing for piranhas. This afternoon, visit some homes in a Tiririca community to learn about the traditional ways of life in the Amazon. (B, L, D) Day 4: Amazon Explore the waterways that wind through the flooded forest around your lodge before enjoying a final lunch in the jungle. Return to Manaus this afternoon. (B, L)
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Copacabana Beach
The Cox & Kings Experience
Iguazu Waterfall
Rio de Janeiro
complete with a traditional Argentinean BBQ. If you like, choose to explore the Buenos Aires Delta of the Parana River. This evening, head to the historic neighborhood of San Telmo for dinner and an authentic tango show. (B)
lunch at a famous café in Ipanema. It’s a great spot to sample the national dish of Brazil, feijoada, a hearty mix of stewed meats and sausages with rice, black beans and side dishes of kale and pão de queijo (delicious cheese bread balls). Then take the cogwheel railway up Corcovado Hill, home of the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. From the summit, admire the beaches, deep blue waters, mountains, forests and urban areas of Rio. (B, L)
Day 4: To Iguazú Fly north to Iguazú where you will be met and taken to your hotel. Take a guided walk through the upper falls area for panoramic views over one of the world’s great natural wonders. Of all the natural wonders that South America has to offer these gigantic waterfalls, which lie on the borders of Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil, are surely the most magnificent. Take the train to Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) for an unforgettable excursion along catwalks above the falls. Sheraton Iguazu – 2 nights (B)
Rio de Janeiro
The Pulse and Rhythms of Argentina & Brazil 9 DAYS & 8 NIGHTS
Buenos Aires, Iguazú & Rio de Janeiro
Iguazú falls
Buenos aires
Palermo; and elegant Recoleta, home to the cemetery where many of the country’s most famous sons and daughters (including Eva Perón) are laid to rest. (B)
Day 6: To Rio de Janeiro This morning, cross the border to Brazil. Walk along a system of catwalks, enjoying spectacular views of the thundering cascades; for a panoramic shot, take the elevator up to the top of the falls. This afternoon, fly to Rio. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure to experience Rio on your own. Copacabana Palace Hotel – 3 nights (B)
Day 3: Buenos Aires Enjoy the day at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, cross the Rio de la Plata to the charming colonial city of Colonia in Uruguay. Or spend the day at a gaucho at a nearby estancia,
Day 7: Rio Spend the day exploring the wonders of Rio. This morning, travel to Flamengo Park, and ascend Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car for panoramic views of the city and the bays. Savor
Discover the wonders of Argentina and Brazil on this classic journey. Start in the elegant city of Buenos Aires where you see the sights and savor a scintillating tango show. Then it’s on to the sub-tropical north for a visit to the thundering cascades of Iguazú Falls. End your travels in vibrant Rio, home to sun-kissed beaches, urban forests and one of the most vivacious cultures in the world. Along the way, enjoy time to explore these truly magical places at your own pace. Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, a city of grand architecture and European influences, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the vibrant and energetic capital city. Wander around and stroll the friendly streets, pick a classic souvenir, pay a visit to a museum or just soak up the atmosphere as you relax over a café con
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leche at a local coffee bar. Algodon Mansion – 3 nights Day 2: Buenos Aires Discover the highlights of the “Paris of South America,” including the Plaza de Mayo’s cathedral and the Casa Rosada presidential palace. Continue to the docklands of Puerto Madero; La Boca with its multicolored houses and soccer stadium; the parks, gardens and mansions of
Day 5: Iguazú National Park Venture into the tropical forest by Jeep, searching for colorful birds, wild animals and exotic vegetation. Disembark to walk an old Indian track to the river where you board a boat and head upstream toward the falls. Later this afternoon, walk along a former lumber road through the jungle to a beautiful waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip if you like. Return to your hotel for the evening. (B)
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Day 8: Rio Enjoy a full day at leisure to relax or experience more of Rio at your own pace. If you like, choose an optional Jeep tour of the favelas, a stroll through the botanical gardens, an exploration of the Tijuca urban rainforest or an excursion to the imperial city of Petrópolis. (B) Day 9: Depart Rio de Janeiro After a last day at leisure in Rio, head to the airport to connect to your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • • •
Hike through the jungle on an old Indian trail with your guide Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Buenos Aires Relish a festive dinner and tango show Take a thrilling boat trip to the base of Iguazú Falls Walk along the catwalks above Devil’s Throat falls Take a cable car to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio Ascend Corcovado Hill to see the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue Relish a traditional Brazilian lunch of feijoada
Extensions • Patagonia • Mendoza • Amazon • Machu Picchu
Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Osorno Volcano
The Cox & Kings Experience
Plaza de Mayo, Buenos Aires
La Boca
journey to the heart of the Argentinean Lake District. Hotel Llao Llao – 3 nights (B, L)
Day 11: To Rio de Janeiro Cross the border to Brazil. Enjoy a short walk along a system of catwalks that gets you up close and personal with the thundering cascades. After lunch, head to the airport for your flight to Rio de Janeiro. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Copacabana Palace Hotel – 2 nights (B, L)
Day 12: Rio de Janeiro Ascend to the summit of Corcovado Hill to see the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. After a traditional barbeque lunch, take a cable car up Sugar Loaf Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the city and the bays. Celebrate your journey this evening with a festive dinner and samba show. (B, D)
Day 5: Bariloche Enjoy an easy hike to the summit of Llao Llao Hill for panoramic views of the lake. This evening, dine at a local restaurant. (B, D) Day 6: Argentinean Lake District Venture into the mountains today for an unforgettable adventure. Walk to the cliffs at Brazo Tristeza from where you’ll enjoy magnificent panoramic views and a picnic lunch. This afternoon, embark on a kayak for a discovery of lovely Moreno Lake. (B, L) Day 7: To Buenos Aires Fly north to the “Paris of South America”. This evening, head to the historic neighborhood of San Telmo for a festive dinner and authentic tango show. Alvear Palace Hotel – 3 nights (B, D) Rio de Janeiro
Quintessential South America Santiago, Puerto Varas, Bariloche, Buenos Aires, Iguazú Falls & Rio de Janeiro
13 D A Y S & 1 2 N I G H T S
Iguazú falls
Santiago Puerto Varas Puerto Montt
Buenos aires Bariloche
Embark on this spectacular adventure through South America to explore its natural beauty, fascinating culture and cosmopolitan cities. See the sights in Santiago, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro. Discover the lovely lake districts of Chile and Argentina, the thundering cascades of Iguazú Falls and the sun-kissed beaches and forested mountains of Rio. Day 1: Arrive Santiago Upon arrival in Santiago, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. After some time to freshen up, see the very best of Santiago on an introductory tour of Chile’s capital city, including the cathedral, the pre-Columbian museum and San Cristobal Hill. Stop by the former home of the Chilean poet Pablo Neruda before enjoying dinner at one of the capital’s exclusive restaurants. La Reve – 2 nights (D)
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Day 2: Maipo Valley In the Maipo Valley, visit the acclaimed Santa Rita winery. Take a tour of the facilities, sample some of their renowned wines, enjoy a tasty lunch and stroll through the fascinating museum. Continue to Haras de Pirque winery, situated spectacularly in the foothills of the mighty Andes. Return to Santiago for an evening at leisure. (B, L) Day 3: To Puerto Montt / Puerto Varas Fly south to Puerto Montt and transfer to the
town of Puerto Varas, which is surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to walk around town and do some exploring at your own pace. Cumbres Patagonicas Hotel – 1 night (B) Day 4: To Bariloche Travel east along the shores of Lake Llanquihue, savoring the breath-taking views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. Board a catamaran to cross Lake Todos Los Santos. Continue your
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Day 8: Exploring Buenos Aires Join your private guide to discover the highlights of Buenos Aires, including the Plaza de Mayo’s cathedral and the Casa Rosada presidential palace. Continue to San Telmo; La Boca with its multicolor houses; the Barrio Norte neighborhood; and the parks of Palermo. (B)
Day 13: Depart Rio de Janeiro Enjoy the day at leisure before heading to the airport. (B)
• • • • • • • • •
Take a guided hike up the slope of Osorno volcano for panoramic views of Calbuco volcano and Lake Llanquihue Explore cosmopolitan Santiago Savor private tastings at acclaimed wineries Kayak in the Argentinean Lake District Relish dinner and tango show in Buenos Aires Experience the gaucho life on an estancia (ranch) Take a thrilling boat trip to the base of Iguazú Falls Ascend to the summit of Corcovado in Rio Thrill to a scintillating samba show
Extensions • Atacama Desert • Easter Island • Amazon River • Machu Picchu
Rio de Janeiro
Day 9: San Antonio de Areco Spend a day in the pampas learning about the lives and traditions of the gauchos. Go behind the scenes at a local silversmith shop. On the grounds of the estancia, savor a classic Argentinean barbeque of fine beef and wines, then relax and enjoy the rural ambience. If you like, take a horseback ride before returning to Buenos Aires for an evening at leisure. (B, L) Day 10: To Iguazú Falls Fly north to Iguazú. This afternoon, take a guided walk for panoramic views over one of the world’s great natural wonders. Then embark on a thrilling nautical adventure to the base of the falls. Sheraton Iguazú Hotel – 1 night (B, L, D) Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Iguazú National Park
The Cox & Kings Experience
Empanadas
Presidential Palace
This afternoon, embark on a thrilling nautical adventure to the base of the falls. (B)
enjoy magnificent panoramic views and a picnic lunch. This afternoon, spend some time on the pretty beaches of Moreno Lake before returning to your resort for a last evening at leisure in the Lake Country. (B, L)
Option: If you’re feeling adventurous, choose to rappel down the cliff instead of walking back down. On the way down, enjoy incredible views and the feeling of being suspended in midair.
Day 5: To Mendoza Fly west to the heart of Argentinean wine country in Mendoza where you will be met and taken to your hotel. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Why not take a stroll in this pleasant city and stop at a welcoming café for a glass of local Malbec? Entre Cielos – 3 nights (B) Day 6: Mendoza After breakfast, set off on a full-day exploration of some of the most important wineries of the region. Enjoy a special guided tasting, learn about the unique Argentinean terroir, sample some of the world’s best Malbecs and savor lunch in a scenic spot at one of the wineries. (B, L)
Iguazú
Essential Argentina 11 D A Y S & 10 N I G H T S
Mendoza & Bariloche
Buenos Aires, Iguazú,
Mendoza
Buenos Aires
Bariloche
Discover the wonders of Argentina, a vast country with beautiful landscapes and strong European influences. Start by exploring Buenos Aires where you see the sights and savor a scintillating tango show. Then it’s on to the sub-tropical north for a visit to the thundering cascades of Iguazú Falls. In Mendoza, the heart of Argentinean wine country, enjoy special visits to acclaimed wineries. End your travels in the midst of the spectacular natural beauty of the Lake District. Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to stroll the streets, pay a visit to a museum or relax over a café con leche. Park Hyatt – 2 nights Day 2: Buenos Aires Discover the highlights of the “Paris of South America”, including the Plaza de Mayo’s cathedral
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and the Casa Rosada presidential palace. Continue to the old neighborhood of San Telmo with its narrow, cobblestone streets; La Boca with its multicolor houses and soccer stadium; the elegant Barrio Norte neighborhood; and Palermo with its wonderful parks, gardens and magnificent mansions. This evening is dedicated to the heart and soul of Argentina – the Tango. Return to the bohemian and historic neighborhood of San Telmo for a festive dinner and authentic tango show in one of the city’s best clubs. (B, D)
Day 3: To Iguazú Fly north to Iguazú where you will be met and taken to your hotel. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Sheraton Iguazú – 2 nights (B) Day 4: Iguazú National Park Take a guided walk through the upper falls area for panoramic views over one of the world’s great natural wonders. Take the train to Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) for an unforgettable excursion along catwalks above the falls.
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Day 7: Mendoza Enjoy the day at leisure. If you like, take one of several optional excursions, including a guided city tour or a journey to mighty Mount Aconcagua combined with an easy, scenic hike. (B)
Day 11: Depart Buenos Aires Return to Buenos Aires by air to connect to your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • • •
Discover the natural beauty of the Argentinean Lake District on an unforgettable cruise on Lake Nahuel Huapi Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Buenos Aires Relish a festive dinner and tango show Take a thrilling boat trip to the base of Iguazú Falls Walk along the catwalks above Devil’s Throat falls Savor a private tasting at a winery near Mendoza Enjoy a day at leisure in Wine Country Marvel at the magnificent panoramic views from Brazo Tristeza
Extensions • El Calafate • Salta Winemaker, Argentina Lake Nahuel Huapi
Day 8: To Bariloche Fly south to Bariloche and the Argentinean Lake District. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Casco Art Hotel – 3 nights (B) Day 9: Bariloche Embark on a sailing voyage on spectacular Lake Nahuel Huapi. Set sail in the calm waters of the Campanario branch before traveling to Huemul and Gallinas islands. Stop at a natural port to admire the natural beauty of the area and toast your journey with a glass of Patagonian wine. Back at your resort, savor the evening at leisure. After dinner, why not take walk under the brilliant southern stars? (B, Snack) Day 10: Bariloche Venture into the mountains today on an unforgettable adventure. In Llao Llao park, walk to the cliffs at Brazo Tristeza from where you Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Grey Glacier, Patagonia
The Cox & Kings Experience
Torres del Paine National Park
Valley, Chile
to celebrate the commencement of your journey to “the uttermost part of the earth.” Stella Australis – 4 nights (B, L, D)
with its narrow, cobblestone streets; La Boca with its multicolored houses and soccer stadium; the elegant Barrio Norte neighborhood; and Palermo with its wonderful parks, gardens and magnificent mansions. This evening, return to San Telmo for a festive dinner and authentic tango show in one of the city’s best clubs. (B, D)
Day 6: Cruising Patagonia Cruise through Almirantazgo Sound to Alberto de Agostini National Park. Marvel at glaciers descending from the mountainside to the sea, keep your eyes open for elephant seals and take a hike through Magellanic forest to a remote beaver dam. Later, visit a colony of penguins or hike to a nearby glacier. (B, L, D) Day 7: Cruising Patagonia Sail through the Beagle Channel and disembark near Pia fjord for a hike to the magnificent Pia glacier. Back on board, gaze at the spectacular scenery of “Glacier Alley.” (B, L, D)
Chile & Argentina: Patagonia & Fjords Santiago, Punta Arenas, Patagonia & Buenos Aires
Santiago
Buenos Aires
1 2 D A Y S & 11 N I G H T S
Torres del Paine Punta Arenas
Ushuaia
Discover the heart of Patagonia on this incredible journey through one of the world’s greatest wilderness regions. Begin your adventure in Chile’s cosmopolitan capital before heading south to experience the glory of Torres del Paine National Park. Then board your comfortable ship for a four-night cruise through the Beagle Channel to the Cape of Good Hope. After marveling at icebergs and visiting a colony of penguins, fly north to Buenos Aires. Day 1: Arrive Santiago, Chile Upon arrival in Santiago, Chile, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Lastarria Boutique Hotel – 1 night Day 2: To Punta Arenas After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your fight to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel, located on
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the Señoret channel in the southernmost part of Chile. The Singular Patagonia – 3 nights (B, D) Days 3 & 4: Patagonia Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Patagonia for two full days. Venture into Torres del Paine National Park to visit Lago Grey and its Grey Glacier that calves huge, intensely colored icebergs into the lake. Explore pristine landscapes that once were home to the prehistoric horse, the giant sloth and the saber-tooth tiger. As you
discover on foot, horseback or by kayak, keep your eyes open for the majestic condor soaring between isolated peaks and the sharp-taloned eagle hunting its prey. (B, L, D) Day 5: Cruising Patagonia After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas dock to begin your cruise. Sail through the Strait of Magellan to explore one of the most breathtaking wilderness regions in the world. This evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail reception
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Day 8: Cruising Patagonia Sail through Murray Channel and Nassau Bay to reach Cape Horn National Park, where you will disembark (weather permitting) to discover the land at the end of the earth. Go ashore at historic Wulaia Bay, originally the site of one of the region’s largest settlements of the indigenous Yamana people. Charles Darwin also landed there during his voyage on the HMS Beagle. Walk through a lush forest to reach a panoramic viewpoint over the furious southern seas. (B, L, D)
Day 11: Buenos Aires Spend a day in the pampas learning about the lives and traditions of the gauchos. Go behind the scenes at a local silversmith shop. On the grounds of the estancia, savor a classic Argentinean barbeque of fine beef and wines, then relax and enjoy the rural ambience. If you like, take a horseback or carriage ride. (B, L) Day 12: Depart Buenos Aires After breakfast, enjoy the morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • •
Hike past glittering lakes in Torres del Paine National Park Spend three days and nights cruising through remote Tierra del Fuego aboard the Stella Australis Cruise through the Dramatic Beagle and Murray Channels Watch for massive Icebergs and Glaciers Visit large colonies of penguins and search for elephant seals Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Buenos Aires Experience the life of a gaucho on an estancia in the pampas
Extensions • Iguazu Falls • Atacama • Easter Island
Patagonia, Argentina
Day 9: To Buenos Aires Arrive in Ushuaia, where you disembark and transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in Argentina’s elegant capital. Sofitel Buenos Aires – 3 nights (B) Day 10: Buenos Aires Embark upon a tour of the “Paris of South America,” including the Plaza de Mayo’s cathedral and the Casa Rosada presidential palace. Continue to the neighborhood of San Telmo Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Lake Todos
The Cox & Kings Experience
Guanaco
Torres del Paine
presentation of Patagonian specialties, such as Salmon Carpaccio and Chilean Bass simmered in local herbs. Cabañas del Logo – 2 nights (B, D)
in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to do some exploring of Santiago at your own pace. Why not celebrate your journey with a festive dinner at one of the city’s renowned seafood restaurants? San Cristobal Tower – 1 night (B)
Day 4: Lake District Embark upon a boat trip to the beautiful island of Peulla in Todos los Santos Lake. If the weather is fair, admire the snow-capped Osorno volcano as you cross the clear waters of the lake. Enjoy some time to soak up the atmosphere on the island before returning to Puerto Varas this afternoon. (B)
Chile: Majestic Patagonia Santiago, Maipo Valley, Lake District & Torres del Paine National Park 10 D A Y S & 9 N I G H T S
Day 5: To Punta Arenas / Isla Magdalena / Puerto Natales Head back to Puerto Montt for your flight to Punta Arenas, a far southern city located on the Strait of Magellan. Upon arrival, you will embark on a nautical journey to visit the huge colony of Magellanic penguins on Isla Magdalena. Return to Punta Arenas and continue north to your hotel. Tierra Patagonia – 4 nights (B, D) Maipo Valley
Torres del Paine Punta Arenas
Extraordinarily beautiful, Chile boasts some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. On this journey, explore vibrant Santiago, hike through the beautiful Maipo Valley, cruise on Lake Todos los Santos for views of the Osorno volcano, visit a colony of penguins and discover the glacial panoramas of Torres del Paine National Park where you can hike across Lava fields, admires Icy peaks, and experience one of the last untouched wildernesses in the world. Day 1: Arrive Santiago Upon arrival in Santiago, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and embark upon a city tour, from the history of the colonial neighborhoods to the modernity of the financial center. See the historic university area, the government palaces and the lovely parks. Then ascend San Cristobal Hill for panoramic views. End your day with a visit to the vibrant Bellavista neighborhood. San Cristobal Tower – 2 nights
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Day 2: Maipo Valley After breakfast, depart for the beautiful Maipo Valley, one of the most scenic areas of central Chile. Upon arrival, begin your hike by climbing up to a 300-acre plateau. Walk on to reach a viewpoint where you stop for a break and to enjoy the sights. Continue your trek into a nature sanctuary that’s home to the famed Waterfall of the Spirits. During the summer, enjoy a refreshing dip in one of the pools at the base of the falls. At
the end of your hike, savor a tasty meal at a local restaurant. After lunch, head back to your hotel to enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. (B, L) Day 3: To Puerto Montt / Puerto Varas Fly south to Puerto Montt, and transfer to the town of Puerto Varas, surrounded by shimmering lakes and snow-capped volcanoes. Drive through the charming streets on your way to one of the town’s best restaurants, famed for its magnificent
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See the sights in Santiago Hike through a nature preserve in the Maipo Valley Indulge yourself at one of the best gourmet restaurants in Puerto Varas Cruise in the shadow of a volcano on Lake Todos los Santos Sail to the island of Peulla Visit a colony of penguins on Isla Magdalena Hike along forested trails in Torres del Paine National Park Watch for icebergs calved from the Grey Glacier Search the southern skies for the great condor
Extensions • Chilean Fjords Cruise • Falkland Islands • Antarctica Governmental Palace, Santiago
Santiago
Puerto Varas Puerto Montt
Isla Magdalena
Day 10: Depart Santiago Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • • • •
Days 6 – 8: Patagonia Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Patagonia for three full days. Rise each morning to unforgettable views of the Towers and the Torres Massif of Torres del Paine National Park. Venture into the park to visit Lago Grey and its Grey Glacier that calves huge, intensely colored icebergs into the lake. Embark on half- or fullday hikes to reach the most beautiful viewpoints in the national park, such as Lake Toro and the base of the Towers. You can also hike through pristine landscapes that once were home to extinct megafauna, such as the prehistoric horse, the giant sloth and the saber-tooth tiger. As you explore, keep your eyes open for the majestic condor soaring between isolated peaks and the sharp-taloned eagle hunting its prey. (B, L, D)
Grey Lake, Chile
Day 9: To Santiago Enjoy a last few hours amidst the grandeur of Patagonia as you transfer back to Punta Arenas for your flight to Santiago. Upon arrival, check Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Extensions – Argentina
Salta
Iberá Marshes 4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Bariloche
El Calafate
Puerto Madryn
Day 1: Arrive Salta Upon arrival, enjoy a chairlift ride to the top of San Bernardo Hill and a visit to a craft market. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner. Legado Mítico or House of Jasmines – 1 night (D)
Day 1: Arrive Posadas / Aguape Lodge Welcome to the Iberá Marshes, the largest protected area in Argentina. Upon arrival, transfer to your lodge in 4x4 vehicles and get settled in your room. Posada Aguape – 3 nights (D) Day 2: Iberá Marshes Begin your day with a boat excursion in search of capybaras, alligators, marsh deer, otters and some of the 350 species of birds that inhabit the area. This afternoon, take a guided walk through the forest where you may come upon howler monkeys. If you like, borrow one of the bikes at the lodge and pedal to the charming town of Colonia Carlos Pellegrini. (B, L, D)
Day 1: Arrrive Bariloche Upon arrival in Bariloche, meet your local guide and check in to your hotel. This afternoon, take a scenic drive to acquaint yourself with the forests, lakes and mountains that surround the town. Take a chairlift ride to the summit of Campanario Hill for panoramic views. End your journey on the Llao Llao Peninsula at your elegant hotel. After some time to freshen up, relish a welcome dinner. Casco Art Hotel or Llao Llao Hotel – 3 nights (D)
Day 1: Arrive El Calafate Upon arrival, you’ll be met and taken to your lodge. This afternoon, visit an interactive, multimedia museum dedicated to the glaciers of Patagonia. Eolo Lodge – 3 nights (D)
Day 2: To Purmamarca Spend the day exploring Quebrada de Humahuaca. After a picnic lunch, visit to the Salinas Grandes salt beds and the village of Purmamarca. La Comarca or Manantial del Silencio – 1 night (B, L)
Day 1: Arrive Mendoza Upon arrival in Mendoza, check in to your hotel before heading out to discover the culture and history of the town. See the oldest part of the city, the ruins of San Francisco Church, the Plaza Independencia and the Hill of Glory. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local gourmet restaurant. Entre Cielos or Cavas Wine Lodge – 3 nights (D)
Day 1: Arrive Puerto Madryn Fly south from Buenos Aires to Argentinean Patagonia. Upon arrival, transfer to the Punta Tombo Reserve, home to the most penguins in the world outside Antarctica. Continue to the Welsh town of Gaiman, a farming village where you are invited to a traditional tea. End your day’s journey in Puerto Madryn. Territorio Hotel – 1 night (L, D)
5 DAYS & 4 NIGHTS
Day 3: To Salta Immerse yourself in the cultural life of the Northwest in the local community of Hornaditas before returning to Salta this evening. Legado Mítico or House of Jasmines – 1 night (B, L) Day 4: To Cafayate Discover the Calchaquies Valley, including Los Cardones National Park, the beautiful colonial village of Cachi and the surreal landscape of Quebrada de las Flechas before arriving in Cafayate. Patios de Cafayate hotel – 1 night (B, L) Day 5: Depart Salta Visit a craft market and a local winery. After lunch, head back to the Salta airport. (B, L)
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Mendoza
Private Extensions – Argentina
Day 2: Mendoza Spend a full day exploring the Uco Valley and visiting two wineries for tours, tastings and lunch. In the afternoon, return Mendoza. (B, L, D)
Day 3: Iberá Marshes After breakfast, embark on a wildlife-watching excursion on the Miriñay River, an excellent birdwatching area. This afternoon, go on a guided hike or just relax at the lodge. If you like, go out on a nocturnal exploration after dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 3: Mendoza Follow your heart today as you choose your own adventure. Visit more local wineries on a horseback excursion, hit the water on a rafting adventure or spend some time pampering yourself in the spa. This evening, dine in style at the elegant restaurant of acclaimed Argentinean chef Francis Mallman. (B, L, D)
Day 4: Depart Iberá Marshes This morning, take a canoe trip with a local guide or hop aboard a motorboat in search of more wildlife. After lunch, return to Posadas for your onward flight. (B, L)
Day 4: Depart Mendoza On your last day in Mendoza, visit Zuccardi Winery for a culinary class accompanied by a wine tasting. This afternoon, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B, L)
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Day 2: Bariloche Enjoy the morning at leisure before departing for Villa la Angostura, a charming little town in the heart of Lake Nahuel Huapi National Park. Explore the town, take a stroll beside the lake and return to Bariloche along National Route 231, which offers incredible views. (B, D) Day 3: Bariloche Embark via mountain bike to explore some of the most scenic spots of Bariloche. You’ll pedal along sparsely trafficked roads, by sparkling streams and evergreen forest. This easy cycling adventure is great for riders of all skill levels. (B) Day 4: Depart Bariloche Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 2: El Calafate Depart El Calafate in the morning on your way to the magnificent Perito Moreno glacier. Board a boat to cross Brazo Rico. On the other side, strap on your crampons and take a walk on the ice itself. Toast your accomplishment with a glass of whisky and glacier ice! (B, L, D) Day 3: El Calafate Board a ship and head northwest from Paraje Punta Bandera. Soon, you’ll come upon a series of ice floes, as well as Upsala glacier in the distance. Enjoy a gourmet lunch on the ship as you approach the Spegazzini glacier. After some time to soak up the stunning natural atmosphere, head back to El Calafate. (B, L, D) Day 4: El Calafate Ride a chairlift to the summit of Huyliche Hill. Embark on a 4x4 journey through the remote landscape where you may see condors. After your adventure, transfer to the airport.
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 2: To Punta Delgada Depart Puerto Madryn for a two-day exploration of the spectacular Peninsula Valdés. Your first stop is tiny Puerto Píramide where you will board a whale-watching boat and head out into the ocean. Back on dry land, travel south, before arriving at Punta Delgada, where you may see elephant seals. Faro Punta Delgada – 1 night (B) Day 3: To Puerto Madryn Discover the protected area of Caleta Valdés. In addition to striking coastal landscapes, it’s home to elephant seals, guanacos, rheas, foxes, armadillos and wild hares. Stop for lunch at a traditional estancia. Territorio Hotel – 1 night (B, L) Day 4: Depart Puerto Madryn Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
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Private Extensions – Chile
Private Extensions – Chile
Patagonia
The Atacama Desert
The Casablanca Valley
Easter Island
Southern Chile
Chiloé Island
Day 1: Arrive Punta Arenas Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Torres del Paine National Park, a region of turquoisecolored lakes, ancient forests and spectacular mountain peaks. Explora Patagonia or Tierra Patagonia or Awasi or Singular Hotel – 3 nights (D)
Day 1: Arrive San Pedro de Atacama Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. This afternoon, get a taste for the austere beauty of the desert as you explore the Salt Mountain Range and Moon Valley. Explora Atacama or Tierra Atacama or Awasi or Alto Atacama – 3 nights (D)
Day 1: Arrive Santiago / Casablanca Upon arrival in Chile’s capital, transfer to your hotel in the Casablanca Valley. Your hotel is part of the Matetic winery, a state-of-the-art winemaking facility constructed to complement the natural beauty of the valley. Hotel Casona Matetic – 2 nights (D)
Day 1: Arrive Easter Island Arrive in remote Easter Island, a small triangle of land in the immensity of the Pacific. Transfer to your hotel in time for dinner. Explora Rapa Nui or Hanga Roa or Hare Noi – 4 nights (D)
Day 1: Arrive Temuco / Huilo Huilo Reserve Upon arrival in Temuco, you will be met and taken to the incredible Huilo Huilo Reserve, which is set in the middle of more than 245,000 acres of magnificent Patagonian scenery. Nothofagus Hotel or Nawelpi Lodge – 3 nights (D)
Day 1: Santiago / Chiloé Island Upon arrival in Castro, you will be transferred to your hotel. Then, travel to Puñihuil. At the harbor, board a small boat to visit three barren islands where Magellanic and Humboldt penguins live and even nest together. After, continue to your hotel for dinner. Hotel Quilquico – 3 nights (D)
Day 2: Torres Del Paine The day is yours. Take a guided hike through the heart of the park, visiting Salto Grande (big waterfall) and the shores of Lake Nordenskjöld en route to an incredible viewpoint of the Torres del Paine massif. This afternoon, why not take a horseback excursion? Ride through ancient lenga forest, stop at a panoramic lookout and relax at the Hosteria Lazo with a hot drink. (B, L, D)
Day 2: San Pedro de Atacama Customize your day as you like. Pay a visit to the highland lagoons of Miscanti and Miñiques, marvel at the extraordinary colors of the landscape and enjoy lunch in a small restaurant, which supports the local community. (B, L, D)
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 3: Torres Del Paine Again, enjoy your choice of options today. Begin the morning with a 3.5-mile round-trip hike that yields some impressive views and takes you off the beaten path. This afternoon, take a trip to Valle La Porfiada, a private area of plains accessible only to an exclusive few. (B, L, D)
Day 3: San Pedro de Atacama The day is yours at leisure. Climb to an altitude of 14,190 feet to admire the fantastic El Tatio Geysers as the sun rises. Enjoy breakfast and search for families of vicuñas, foxes and even Andean ostriches. Stop in the small town of Machuca before returning to the hotel. And soak away the cares of the world in the Puritama hot springs, hidden at the bottom of a steep gorge. (B, L, D)
Day 4: Depart Torres Del Paine Transfer from your hotel to Punta Arenas for your onward flight. (B)
Day 4: Depart San Pedro de Atacama Transfer from your hotel to the Calama airport for your onward flight. (B)
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3 DAYS & 2 NIGHTS
Day 2: Casablanca Begin your day with an excursion to explore the valley by horseback, bike, foot or van. Return to your hotel for a small-plate lunch served a selection of Matetic wines. This afternoon, take a guided tour of the winery followed by a tasting. Continue to a class on constructing the perfect pisco sour. After some time to freshen up, gather for a festive dinner at the winery’s restaurant. (B, L, D) *If you’d like to venture farther afield, you can choose to travel to Viña del Mar, Valparaiso, or Isla Negra this morning for an additional fee. Day 3: Depart Casablanca After breakfast this morning, say adiós to Casablanca and return to Santiago for your onward flight. If you’d rather continue your trip, surmount the Andes on your way to the Argentinean winemaking capital of Mendoza. (B)
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5 DAYS & 4 NIGHTS
Day 2: Easter Island Your time on Easter Island is yours to customize as you wish. This morning, perhaps visit Rano Raraku, the quarry from which the enigmatic moai were carved. In the afternoon, take a scenic bike along the south coast of the island. (B, L, D) Day 3: Easter Island In Tongariki, marvel at a ceremonial platform holding 15 moai. This afternoon, don mask and fins for a snorkeling expedition. (B, L, D) Day 4: Easter Island Walk along a spectacular cliff-side trail to arrive at the edge of the Rano Kau crater. Visit the ceremonial site of Orongo where you will learn about the mysterious cult of the Birdman. This afternoon, bike to Ahu Akivi, a platform with seven moai. (B, L, D) Day 5: Depart Easter Island Transfer from your hotel to the airport. (B)
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 2: Huilo Huilo Reserve This morning, take a guided walk along the Fuy River, which flows through a petrified lava canyon through the forest. Gaze in wonder at crystalline waterfalls and learn about the endemic trees that make up the southern forest. After lunch, discover the unique culture and traditions of the Mapuche people. (B, L, D) Day 3: Huilo Huilo Reserve From Marina del Fuy paddle the clear waters of northern bank of Lake Pirehueico aboard a kayak. Ascend into the canopy for a thrilling zipline adventure among the treetops. Then cross the lake to indulge yourself in relaxing thermal waters surrounded by native ferns and ancient trees. (B, L, D) Day 4: Depart Huilo Huilo Reserve / Temuco Transfer to Temuco airport for your onward flight. (B)
4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
Day 2: Chiloé Explore Castro, the capital of Chiloé. See some of the typical stilted wooden houses that stand on the shore or in the water. Perhaps enjoy a typical Chiloé lunch of curanto, a tasty stew of seafood, smoked meat, sausage, chicken and local potatoes. This afternoon, spend some time discovering the scenic beauty of Chiloé National Park. (B, L, D) Day 3: Chiloé Visit the church in Dalcahu, as well as the town’s market, famous for its handicrafts. Then board a boat to travel to Quinchao Island to see the most impressive of Chiloé’s 16 UNESCO World Heritage wooden churches in Achao. (B, L, D) Day 4: Chiloé, Castro / Santiago Transfer from your hotel to the airport in Castro for your onward flight. (B)
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Non-Exclusive Luxury Cruise Journey
Non-Exclusive Luxury Cruise Journey
Penguins, Antarctica
The Cox & Kings Experience Todos Los Santos Lake
King George Island, Antarctica
island before returning to Puerto Varas this afternoon. (B)
visit an abandoned whaling station and a derelict British base. If conditions permit, sail through the iceberg-filled Lemaire Channel at 65° south. Enjoy several daily landings and Zodiac cruises, lectures by experts in Antarctica and delicious meals. (B, L, D)
Day 5: To Punta Arenas This morning, head to Puerto Montt airport for your flight to Punta Arenas, located in Chile’s far south on the Strait of Magellan. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and receive a briefing from expedition staff about the ship’s protocols, the guidelines for travel in Antarctica and the best ways to embark and disembark the Zodiacs, which will take you on daily expeditions. This evening, savor a delicious traditional Patagonian dinner at a local restaurant. Hotel Rey Don Felipe – 1 night (B, D)
Antarctica Fly/Sail: Extreme Impressions of Nature Huilo Huilo Reserve, Chilean Lake District, Antarctica & Santiago
1 2 D A Y S & 11 N I G H T S
Santiago Huilo Huilo Reserve Puerto Varas Puerto Montt Torres del Paine
Drake Passage
Punta Arenas
King George Island
Immerse yourself in the vast wilderness and spectacular and dramatic wonders of the icy continent of Antarctica. After you explore Chilean Patagonia, fly over the Drake Passage to board your comfortable expedition ship in the South Shetland Islands. From there, cruise farther south past glittering icebergs and white mountains, accompanied by whales, seals, penguins and the famed wandering albatross, on your unforgettable journey to Antarctica. Day 1: Arrive Santiago / Temuco / Huilo Huilo Reserve Upon arrival in Santiago, fly to Temuco where you will be met and taken to the incredible Huilo Huilo Reserve. This afternoon, enjoy a guided walk along the Fuy River. Nothofagus Hotel – 2 nights (D) Day 2: Huilo Huilo Reserve Discover the unique culture and traditions of the
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local Mapuche people. Paddle the clear waters of northern bank of Lake Pirehueico aboard a kayak. Ascend into the canopy for a thrilling zipline adventure. Then cross the lake to indulge yourself in relaxing thermal waters. (B, L, D) Day 3: To Puerto Varas Head south to Puerto Varas, stopping to explore a few small villages that are home to historic churches, beautiful gardens and a museum that
highlights the history of the area’s first settlers. Continue along the shores of Chile’s largest lake until you reach Puerto Varas. Casa Molino – 2 nights (B, D) Day 4: Lake District Embark upon a boat trip to the island of Peulla in Todos los Santos Lake. If the weather is fair, admire the snow-capped Osorno volcano. Enjoy some time to soak up the atmosphere on the
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Day 6: To King George Island Fly over the waters of the Drake Passage on your way to one of the most remote places on earth, the coldest, highest, windiest, driest, and most inhospitable continent — Antarctica. Upon arrival in the South Shetland Islands, explore the area where the Chilean and Russian naval bases are located. Then head to the beach at Fildes Bay to board a Zodiac for the journey to your expedition ship, which is anchored in the harbor. M/V Ocean Nova – 5 nights (B, L, D) Days 7 – 10: Antarctica While cruising between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sail along ice-filled fjords and between spectacular icebergs. Along the way, relish the company of sea birds, penguins, seals and whales. On your journey south, visit some of the most magnificent spots in the white continent, including Livingston Island with its stunning, icy landscapes; Port Lockroy, which provides a fascinating peek into the life on an Antarctic base in the 1950s; Petermann Island, a great spot for iceberg and whale spotting; Paradise Bay, which offers a rare opportunity for a mainland landing; Cuverville Island, home to the largest known colony of Gentoo penguins in the Antarctic Peninsula; and Deception Island, where you can
Day 11: To Punta Arenas / Santiago Return to King George Island for your flight back to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, you will connect with your flight to Santiago. Upon arrival in Santiago, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Time to relax, before you are treated to a wonderful farewell dinner this evening. Lastarria Boutique Hotel – 1 night (B, D) Day 12: Depart Santiago Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • • • •
Explore the Huilo Huilo biological reserve Embark on a zip-line journey through the treetops Immerse yourself in the Mapuche culture Kayak the waters of Lake Pirehueico Discover the lovely landscapes of Peulla Island Follow in the footsteps of polar explorers on the icy continent of Antarctica Save time and fly over the Drake Passage Marvel at the mountainous scenery and floating icebergs Visit colonies of King and Gentoo Penguins
Extensions • Easter Island • Chilean Wine Country
Gentoo Penguins, Antarctica
M/V Ocean Nova
M/V Ocean Nova Built in Denmark in 1992 for polar navigation, the Ocean Nova was refurbished in 2006 to offer comfortable cabins, a dining room and a glass-walled observation lounge on the top deck. In between excursions, enjoy a drink in the bar, read up on polar history in the library or work out in the exercise room. Staffed by Danish officers who are experts in polar navigation, the Ocean Nova is a classic expedition ship ready for the rigors of the southern seas.
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Non-Exclusive Escorted Cruise Journey
Non-Exclusive Escorted Cruise Journey
Petermann Island, Antarctica
The Cox & Kings Experience
Ushuaia National Park, Argentina
Port Lockroy, Antarctica
Days 6 – 9: Antarctica As you explore Antarctica, walk in the footsteps of the great explorers and marvel at one of the last untouched places on earth. (B, L, D)
Port Lockroy Port Lockroy offers a fascinating peek into life on an Antarctic base in the 1950s. The nesting Gentoo penguins surrounding the main building have become accustomed to human visitors.
Here are some of the spots you may explore: Deception Island, South Shetland Islands The harbor inside this volcanic island includes Whalers Bay, where you can visit an abandoned whaling station and a derelict British base. Half Moon Island, South Shetland Islands Half Moon’s cliffs are home to a large colony of chinstrap penguins as well as Antarctic terns, kelp gulls, snowy sheathbills and Wilson’s storm petrels. Yankee Harbor, South Shetland Islands Yankee Harbor boasts a Gentoo penguin colony and a nesting area for predatory skuas.
Antarctica: The Last Untouched Continent Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, Drake Passage & Antarctica 1 2 D A Y S & 11 N I G H T S
Buenos Aires
Ushuaia
Drake Passage
Antarctica
Experience the planet’s last unspoiled wilderness from the comfort and safety of the most sophisticated expedition cruising vessel ever constructed. Your journey will take you across the Drake Passage to the magnificent landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula and its abundant summer wildlife of seals, penguins, and whales. Before your cruise journey begins, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires Upon arrival in vibrant Buenos Aires, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Legado Mitico – 2 nights Day 2: Buenos Aires Discover the highlights of the “Paris of South America,” including the swank Recoleta neighborhood, the cobblestone streets of San Telmo and the multicolored houses of La Boca.
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At night, delve into the history of the tango during a dinner and performance of Argentina’s national dance. (B, D) Day 3: To Ushuaia / Embark M/S Fram This morning, fly to the southernmost city in the world. Upon arrival, visit Ushuaia National Park followed by lunch. This evening, board your ship and sail through the Beagle Channel as you set a course for Antarctica. M/S Fram – 9 nights (B, L, D)
Days 4 & 5: The Drake Passage Sail through the fabled Drake Passage, where the Atlantic and Pacific meet the Great Southern Ocean to create the Antarctic Convergence. As you cruise through this remote region, why not attend some of the on-board lectures to learn more about the wonders of Antarctica? And don’t forget to spend some time on deck or in the glass-walled observatory to watch the migratory birds, and the towering swells. (B, L, D)
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Cuverville Island Cuverville Island boasts the largest known colony of Gentoo penguins in the Antarctic Peninsula. The narrow Errera Channel offers a spectacular passage as icebergs become trapped and grounded on its shallow bottom. Neko Harbor A favored feeding ground for shy Minke whales, the harbor is perfectly situated to appreciate the grandeur of Andvord Bay and Antarctic scenery. Paradise Harbor Paradise Harbor offers a rare opportunity for a mainland landing, as well as Argentinean and Chilean naval bases, penguin colonies, and some of the finest vistas the Antarctic Peninsula has to offer. Lemaire Channel This seven-mile-wide channel is one of the most beautiful passages in Antarctica, at once sublime and imposing, inviting and inhospitable. Petermann Island Set in the picturesque Penola Channel, Petermann Island is a great spot for iceberg and whale spotting, and boasts spectacular views of the icy surroundings.
Wilhelmina Bay Marvel at the dramatic scenery including mountains, high glaciers and massive icebergs around Wilhelmina Bay. Antarctic Sound Dubbed “Iceberg Alley”, the sound is a startling assortment of floating ice, and is also home to an estimated half million Adélie penguins as well as Gentoo penguins, leopard seals and killer whales. Brown Bluff Adélie penguins, Gentoo penguins, kelp gulls, and Cape petrels can be found breeding at the foot of this volcanic cliff.
• • • • • •
Accompany wandering albatross and storm petrels on their journey through the Drake Passage Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Buenos Aires Discover the dramatic waterfalls, mountains and glaciers of Tierra del Fuego National Park Cruise to Antarctica on the newest and most sophisticated ship Marvel at massive floating icebergs Follow in the footsteps of polar explorers as you land on the icy continent of Antarctica for a close-up look at local penguin colonies
Extensions • Torres del Paine National Park • Iguazú Falls • Mendoza
Days 10 & 11: The Drake Passage Sail north to return through the Drake Passage. During your voyage back to Argentina, attend lectures, search for wildlife and share stories of your time in the far south. (B, L, D)
Beagle Channel
Day 12: Disembark in Ushuaia / To Buenos Aires Upon return to Tierra del Fuego, disembark in Ushuaia and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Buenos Aires. (B) M/S FRAM Named after the ship used by Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen, the M/S Fram was built in 2007. The decor includes original artwork and interiors inspired by the Polar Regions, with a main reception area, two restaurants, a lecture hall and an observation lounge. When it’s time to relax, work out in the gym, warm up in the sauna and the heated outdoor Jacuzzis. Keep an eye out for artifacts from the original Fram, which are displayed throughout the ship.
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Icebreaker on Antarctica
Antarctica Ships Mammoth icebergs. Great swaths of rugged glaciers, glinting ice-blue in the morning light. Colonies of penguins chatter, while walruses doze on the drifting sea ice. Travel to Antarctica to experience Earth’s last true wilderness for yourself. Aboard one of these comfortable expedition ships, cruise past glittering icebergs and towering white peaks, accompanied by whales, seals and the famed wandering albatross. M/V OCEAN NOVA One of the most fuel-efficient vessels operating in the polar regions, Ocean Nova was built in Denmark in 1992 to navigate the icy waters of the west coast of Greenland. In 2006, she was completely refurbished as a comfortable and capable expedition ship. Ocean Nova accommodates 68 passengers in comfortable cabins, each with a view of the sea and private facilities. There’s a spectacular observation lounge, a friendly bar, a good polar library, ample outside deck space and a viewing platform above the bridge. The newest addition to the ship is a gym with a selection of modern exercise equipment. The Ocean Nova offers unreserved seating, buffet-style breakfast and table-service lunch and dinner with main course choices from a changing menu. The lounge and bar are open all day. Ready to explore? Hop aboard one of the rugged Zodiac boats that are perfectly suited for getting on and off the ship.
M/S FRAM Named after the ship used by famous Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen, the M/S Fram was built in 2007 with one goal in mind — to bring travelers closer to spectacular landscapes and wildlife experiences. Specifically designed for sailing in polar waters, the M/S Fram was held to the highest safety standards and is the optimal size for maneuverability and comfort. With space for only 276 guests, you are sure to get to know many of your fellow travellers. The decor includes original artwork and superbly appointed interiors inspired by the polar regions, with a main reception area, two restaurants, a lecture hall and a glass-enclosed observation lounge. When it’s time to relax, work out in the gym, warm up in the sauna and watch the towering icebergs drift from your seat in the bubbling outdoor Jacuzzis. Keep an eye out for artifacts from the original Fram, which are displayed throughout the ship.
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Plaza Mayor, Villa de Leyva
The Cox & Kings Experience
Cartagena
Palenqueras, Colombia
Upon arrival, visit the fossil remains of a marine reptile more than 120 million years old at a local museum. Hotel La Posada de San Antonio – 1 night (B, L)
nearby home with a beautiful view of the water. Savor the fruits of your labor as you watch a dance performance before taking some time to relax on the beach. This afternoon, head to the monastery and church of La Popa for panoramic views of the city and the sea. Visit the fortress of San Felipe, the old city, and the artisan’s market of Las Bóvedas. (B, L)
Day 4: To Bogotá / Armenia Return to Bogotá, stopping at a 15th-century convent along the way. Back in Bogotá, catch your flight west to Armenia. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure to enjoy its amenities. Hotel Hacienda San José – 3 nights (B)
Cartagena
Treasures of Colombia Bogotá, Villa de Leyva, Coffee Region, Cartagena & Rosario Islands
Villa de Leyva Valle del Cocora Armenia
Bogotá
From the snowcapped peaks of the Andes to the tropical Caribbean coast, Colombia enchants with an incredible variety of natural and cultural wonders. Begin your journey in Bogotá, with its fine historic center. Then traverse the ruggedly beautiful coffee country before ending in the colonial port of Cartagena. Along the way, discover a unique salt mine, visit local markets with an expert chef, and relax on one of the continent’s most blissful beaches.
Day 2: Bogotá Embark upon a morning tour of the charming neighborhood of La Candelaria, the historic center
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of the city. Discover the lovely colonial mansions, the Plaza de Bolivar, the grand cathedral and the capital building. Then marvel at the fantastic collection of art in Museo Botero, including pieces by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Discover the incredible variety of precious artifacts at the acclaimed Museo del Oro. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before taking an evening tour that ends with a cable car ride to the summit of Santuario de Monserrate for panoramic views and a festive dinner. (B, D)
Day 10: Depart Cartagena Return to Bogotá this morning to catch your onward flight. (B)
Delve into the art and science of coffee production at a hacienda Explore the world-famous Museo de Oro in Bogotá Take a cable car to Santuario de Monserrate for dinner Go underground to explore the salt cathedral at Zipaquirá Experience charming Villa de Leyva Travel through Colombia’s coffee country Visit popular markets in Cartagena with an expert chef Prepare lunch from local ingredients at a fun cooking class Relax on the gorgeous Rosario Islands
Extensions • Tayrona National Park • Medellín
Castillo San Felipe
10 D A Y S & 9 N I G H T S
Day 1: Arrive Bogotá Upon arrival in the mountain capital of Bogotá, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure to relax or explore the city. Sofitel Victoria Regio – 2 nights
Day 5: Valle del Cocora Depart for the verdant valley of Cocora to admire the Quindian wax palm, the national tree of Colombia, which can grow to a height of almost 200 feet. Hike or ride a horse through the spectacular terrain before crossing the Rio Quindio to enjoy lunch at a local trout farm. This afternoon, browse for handicrafts at colorful markets and marvel at the colonial architecture of Salento and Filandia. (B, L)
Day 9: Rosario Islands Embark on a full-day exploration of the Archipiélago del Rosario, a national park ringed by coral reefs and clear, blue waters. Relax and enjoy the sea air, beautiful coral reefs and the abundant marine life including sharks and dolphins. Do some snorkeling and enjoy lunch before returning to the city this afternoon. (B, L)
• • • • • • • • •
Day 3: To Villa de Leyva Travel through the Sabana de Bogotá, home to the country’s rose and carnation cultivation industry, before arriving at the salt mines of Zipaquirá. Descend into the earth to tour the ancient mines, in which an entire cathedral (complete with the world’s largest cross made of salt) has been carved from the deposits. This afternoon, continue to Villa de Leyva, a colonial jewel with an enormous plaza surrounded by Spanish-style houses and cobblestone streets.
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Day 6: Coffee Plantations Spend the morning exploring the coffee plantations that cling to the steep hills. Meet with a hacienda owner to learn about the process of growing, harvesting, drying and roasting Colombia’s famed coffee beans. The afternoon is yours at leisure to do some more exploring on your own or just relax with a cup of some of the world’s best coffee. (B) Day 7: To Cartagena After breakfast, fly via Bogotá to the charming city of Cartagena on the Caribbean coast. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. Sofitel Santa Clara – 3 nights (B) Day 8: Cartagena Begin this unforgettable day by visiting, exploring and sampling the produce at the markets with an expert local chef. Pick up the ingredients you need for lunch and enjoy a cooking class in a Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Spanish Colonial House
The Cox & Kings Experience
Colombia: Mystery, History & Adventure Bogotá, Villa de Leyva, Medellín, Cartagena, Rosario Islands & Tayrona National Park 13 D A Y S & 1 2 N I G H T S
Tayrona National Park
Santa Marta
Cartagena
MedellÍn
Day 2: Bogotá Embark upon a morning tour of La Candelaria, the historic center of the city. Discover the lovely colonial mansions, the Plaza de Bolivar, the grand
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cathedral and the capital building. Then marvel at the fantastic collection of art in Museo Botero and the acclaimed Museo del Oro. After lunch, ride the cable car to the summit of Santuario de Monserrate. Then drive through the city before ending your travels in the lovely district of Usaquén for some time at leisure. (B, D) Day 3: To Villa de Leyva Travel through the Sabana de Bogotá, home
Plaza Botero
Day 4: Villa de Leyva This morning, visit the fossil remains of a marine reptile more than 120 million years old at a local museum. Stop to explore a 15th-century convent and a ceramics workshop before returning to Villa de Leyva. (B)
Day 9: Rosario Islands Embark on a full-day exploration of the Archipiélago del Rosario, a national park ringed by coral reefs and clear, blue waters. Do some snorkeling and enjoy lunch before returning to the city this afternoon. (B, L)
Day 5: To Medellín Return to Bogotá, stopping to discover the lovely Laguna de Guatavita, the source of the legend of El Dorado. Spend some time soaking up the atmosphere before continuing to the Bogotá airport for your flight to Medellín. Charlee – 2 nights (B, L)
Day 10: To Tayrona National Park Depart Cartagena for the scenic drive to Tayrona National Park. Upon arrival, check in to your comfortable eco-lodge and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Ecohabs – 3 nights (B)
Day 6: Medellín Join your local guide to discover the urban renaissance of Medellín. Visit the collection of sculptures by Fernando Botero in La Plazoleta as well as the suburb of Santo Domingo Savio, which is connected to the central city by cable car. Here you can find the Biblioteca España Park, a stirring symbol of the urban regeneration that has transformed the social and cultural landscape of the city. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. (B)
Days 11 & 12: Tayrona National Park Savor two full days to relax on the beaches and explore the jungles of this splendid national park. Soak up some rays on the pristine beaches and hike the trails in the lush rainforest. (B) Day 13: Depart Santa Marta Transfer to Santa Marta this morning to catch your onward flight. (B)
Go underground to explore the salt cathedral at Zipaquirá Explore the Museo de Oro in Bogotá Take a cable car to Santuario de Monserrate Stroll the streets of Villa de Leyva Delve into the art of social regeneration in Medellín Visit popular markets in Cartagena with an expert chef Prepare lunch from local ingredients at a fun cooking class Swim, snorkel and relax on the Rosario Islands Discover the beaches and jungles of Tayrona
Extensions • Mompox • Popoyan
Plaza de Bolivar, Bogotá
Villa de Leyva Bogotá
Explore the treasures of Colombia. Travel from the historic heart of Bogotá and the contemporary flair of Medellín to the colonial port of Cartagena and the beautiful Tayrona National Park. As you discover this vibrant country, wander through local markets with an expert chef, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, hike through pristine rainforest, indulge your senses in colonial towns and visit the source of the legend of El Dorado. Every step of the way, you’ll be amazed at the warmth and friendliness of this diverse country. Day 1: Arrive Bogotá Upon arrival in Bogotá, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Sofitel Victoria Regio – 2 nights
La Piscina Beach
• • • • • • • • •
to the country’s rose and carnation cultivation industry, before arriving at the salt mines of Zipaquirá. Descend into the earth to tour the ancient mines, in which an entire cathedral has been carved from the salt deposits. This afternoon, continue to Villa de Leyva, a colonial jewel with an enormous plaza surrounded by Spanish-style houses, lovely balconies with a Moorish influence and cobblestone streets. Hotel La Posada de San Antonio – 2 nights (B)
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Day 7: To Cartagena After breakfast, fly to Cartagena. On arrival, check in to your hotel. Hotel Casa San Agustin – 3 nights (B) Day 8: Cartagena Begin this unforgettable day by visiting, exploring and sampling the produce at the markets with an expert local chef. Pick up the ingredients you need for lunch and enjoy a cooking class in a nearby home with a beautiful view of the water. Savor the fruits of your labor as you watch a dance performance before taking some time to relax on the beach. This afternoon, head to the monastery and church of La Popa for panoramic views of the city and the sea. Visit the fortress of San Felipe, the old city, and the handicraft market of Las Bóvedas. (B, L) Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Unspoiled. Uncommon. Unforgettable. Nicaragua offers memorable experiences for every traveler: beaches on both the Pacific Coast and Caribbean Sea, eco-luxury resorts, fascinating colonial cities, volcanoes, islands, rain forests and much more. There are many adventures to be had in Nicaragua. A short hop from the U.S. and Canada, Nicaragua offers travelers a wide variety of authentic travel experiences – creating an unforgettable getaway.
Discover your new Central American destination at www.VisitNicaragua.us
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Private Journey
Private Journey
The Cox & Kings Experience
Patzcuaro, Mexico
Colonial Mexico Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Patzcuaro & Morelia
11 D A Y S & 10 N I G H T S
Dolores Hidalgo Guanajuato
San Miguel de Allende
Morelia Patzcuaro Mexico City
On this unforgettable journey, immerse yourself in the beauty of colonial Mexico. From the grand architecture of Mexico City and Teotihuacan and the colonial charm of Puebla to the Silver Age cities of San Miguelde Allende, Guanajuato, Patzcuaro and Morelia, wonders await you at every turn. Along the way, explore local markets, try your hand at traditional Mexican cuisine and dine at the chef’s table in renowned restaurants. Day 1: Arrive Mexico City Upon arrival in Mexico City, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. A magical harmony of old and modern, Mexico City is a vibrant destination offering a plethora of exciting attractions - museums, archaeological sites, historical buildings and bustling markets. Take the rest of the day to explore on your own, do some shopping or relax and enjoy the spa. This evening, dine at Dulce Patria (Sweet
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Motherland), one of the best restaurants in the country. Las Alcobas – 3 nights (D) Day 2: Mexico City Embark on a day of culinary exploration with celebrity chef Patricia Quintana, the first lady of Mexican gastronomy, who will guide you through the market, instruct you in the finer points of Mexican cuisine and help you design and cook a delicious three-course meal. This afternoon, take a privately guided tour of Mexico City’s historic
center, the oldest part of the city that contains some of the most appreciated cultural treasures of the country. (B, L) Day 3: Mexico City Embark on a full-day exploration of the fascinating cities of Puebla and Cholula. Marvel at the colonial architecture and savor the relaxed hospitality of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Puebla. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to see the great pyramid of Cholula. (B, L)
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Cholula in Puebla, Mexico
Patzcuaro Lake, Mexico
Day 4: To San Miguel de Allende Discover the secrets of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Teotihuacan, once the largest city in the Americas. As you walk along the Avenue of the Dead with your expert guide, visit the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon and learn about the history and culture of this lost civilization. This afternoon, arrive in the lovely artists’ enclave of San Miguel Allende. Casa de Sierra Nevada – 2 nights (B)
Day 9: Patzcuaro Delve into the indigenous culture today on a visit to the island of Janitzio and the village of Santa Clara del Cobre. Shop for crafts at a vibrant local market, take a short hike through the beautiful hills and enjoy a traditional lunch of delectable Tarascan fare. (B, L)
Day 5: San Miguel de Allende Delve into the mysteries and delights of Mexican cuisine during a cooking class held in a magnificent 18th-century mansion in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, take a privately guided tour of the city’s architectural sites (including the famed Parroquita de San Miguel Arcángel) intermingled with history and myths about how the movement for independence and the influx of international artists influenced this high-desert town. (B, L) Day 6: To Dolores Hidalgo / Guanajuato After breakfast, depart for Dolores Hidalgo, birthplace of the Mexican revolution. Then continue to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Guanajuato, once home to some of the richest silver mines in the world. After an afternoon free to explore the winding streets and subterranean passages of the city, dine at the Chef’s Table at Bricio Dominguez’s renowned Jardin de los Milagros. Villa Maria Cristina – 2 nights (B, D)
Day 10: To Morelia After a leisurely morning, travel onward to the colonial city of Morelia. This afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the center of the city, including the incredible 18th-century aqueduct. Return to your hotel to freshen up for your festive farewell dinner at Los Mirasoles, housed in a 17th century mansion. Hotel Villa Montana – 1 night (B, D) Day 11: Depart Morelia Spend the morning doing a bit of exploring on your own before heading to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • •
Cook and dine with expert Mexican chefs in renowned restaurants in Mexico City, Guanajuato and Morelia Admire the grand pyramids of the Sun and the Moon in Teotihuacan Explore the colonial city of Puebla and see the incredible Cholula pyramid Discover San Miguel de Allende, renowned for its rich history and architecture Visit the mummy museum and the house of Diego Rivera in Guanajuato Marvel at the breathtaking views over Lake Patzcuaro Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the colonial gem of Morelia
Extensions • Oaxaca • Riviera Maya
Guanajuato City
Day 7: Guanajuato Enjoy a full-day guided exploration of this gorgeous Silver Age city, including the central plaza, museum of mummies, the grand Juarez Theater, the museum and house of Diego Rivera and more. (B) Day 8: To Patzcuaro Head off the beaten path today as you ascend into the highlands en route to the gorgeous colonial gem of Patzcuaro. Upon arrival, check in and take a tour of the city center before enjoying an evening at leisure. Casa De La Real Aduana – 2 nights (B) Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Mayan Tikal Ruins, Guatemala
The Cox & Kings Experience
Mexico & Guatemala: Following the Footsteps of the Mayans
Palenque Tikal Tuxtla
San Cristobal de Las Casas
Guatemala City
San Cristóbal de las Casas, Palenque, Tikal & Antigua 9 DAYS & 8 NIGHTS
Antigua
Experience the glories of the Mayan empire on this unique journey through the historic, cultural and natural wonders of Mexico and Guatemala. After an idyllic few days in the misty highlands near San Cristóbal de las Casas, descend to explore Palenque, Yaxchitlán and Bonampak. Cross the border to the magnificent city of Tikal before ending your journey in the Spanish colonial capital of Central America. Day 1: Arrive Tuxtla After lunch in Tuxtla, travel overland to Chiapa de Corzo and the Sumidero Canyon. Board a private boat and pass beneath the majestic rock walls, soaring thousands of feet into the sky. Scan the waters for the endangered American crocodile and the treetops for spider monkeys, while cormorants glide above. Continue to the highland cultural center of San Cristóbal de las Casas to check into your boutique hotel. Hotel Bo – 2 nights
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Day 2: San Cristobal de Las Casas After breakfast today, embark on a cultural walking journey through the Chiapan countryside, home to whispering pine forests, indigenous villages and lovely mountain vistas. In San Lorenzo Zinacantan, learn more about the Maya, visit some local homes and sample some homemade liquor. Return to San Cristóbal de las Casas this afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure. (B)
Day 3: To Palenque Descend from the alpine forests of the Southern Sierra Madre to the steamy lowland jungles of Palenque. Home to incredible Mayan ruins, as well as labyrinthine tunnels and underground river systems, Palenque is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico. Upon arrival this afternoon, check in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure to relax or explore on your own. Quinta Chanabnal – 2 nights (B)
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Wooden Animal Masks
Lago Peten Itza, Guatemala
Day 4: Palenque Spend the day on a privately guided exploration of the stunning archeological site of Palenque, including the Templo de las Inscripciones, one of the most renowned burial monuments in the Americas. Nestled deep in jungles at the foot of the Sierra Madre del Sur, Palenque’s setting is as memorable as the site is important for the light it sheds on Mayan traditions, rituals, ceremonies, and spirituality. (B, L)
courts tell of a rich and powerful history when Tikal’s population reached almost 100,000. After your guided tour, soar above the jungle on a scenic flight to Guatemala City and onward to historic Antigua. Meson Panza Verde – 2 nights (B)
Day 5: To Tikal Set out early to the Mayan site of Yaxchitlán, which is renowned for its ornamented building facades, roof combs and impressive stone lintels that depict battles and ceremonial events. This ancient city’s unique position on the mighty Usumacinta River allowed it to control trade throughout the region, making it one of the most important sites in the Mayan world. On the way back to Palenque, stop at another well-guarded secret of the Lacandón forest, Bonampak, which is famous for its astonishing frescoes inside the modest-looking Templo de las Pinturas. After some time to take in these astonishing illustrations, cross the river into Guatemala and travel onward to Tikal. La Lancha Resort – 2 nights (B)
Day 8: Antigua The World Heritage Site of Antigua Guatemala was the colonial Spanish capital of Central America. Today, you will accompany your local guide for a walking tour of its cobbled streets, lovely gardens and welcoming cafes and shops. Your boutique hotel is located right in the heart of the city. Why not celebrate the last night of your journey by strolling to one of the city’s fine restaurants for a celebratory dinner. (B) Day 9: To Guatemala City Bid farewell to Guatemala as you transfer to the Guatemala City airport to catch your onward flight. (B)
• Search for endangered American crocodiles and spider monkeys as you cruise through the scenic Sumidero Canyon • Take a walk through the forests of the Chiapan countryside • Visit the historic city of San Lorenzo Sinacantan • See the incredible Templo de las Inscripciones as you discover the jungle ruins of Palenque • Wander around the ruins of Yaxchitlán, one of the Mayan empire’s greatest cities • Marvel at the frescoes in the Temple of Las Pinturas • Explore the grand site of Tikal, the epicenter of Mayan spirituality • Embark on a lively walking tour of the colonial city of Antigua
Antigua
Day 6: Tikal After a leisurely morning spent enjoying the amenities of your jungle lodge, explore Lago Petén Itzá and its lakeshore villages aboard a boat this afternoon. Make stops at the quaint village of El Remate, which is known for its wood carvers, as well as the island town of Flores. Sample Guatemalteca cuisine and shop for colorful textiles from local vendors. (B) Day 7: To Antigua Buried deep within the rainforest, the ruins of Tikal include more than 3,000 moss-draped temples, houses and plazas. Perhaps the most visually stunning and impressive of all Mayan sites, Tikal’s five monolithic temples pierce the jungle canopy, and its ancient plazas, stelae and ball Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Ambergris Caye, Belize
Private Journey
Mayan Observatory
Guatemala & Belize: Mayan Treasures & Coral Reefs
Tikal
Cayo District Guatemala City
12 D A Y S & 11 N I G H T S Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Tikal, Belize’s Cayo District & Ambergis Caye
Take in the highlights of Guatemala and the tropical paradise of Belize on this varied and exciting Central America journey. Discover the colonial city of Antigua, beautiful Lake Atitlán and the Mayan sites of Tikal and Caracol before relaxing on a blissful beach near the world’s second largest coral reef. Day 1: Arrive Guatemala City / Antigua Upon arrival, transfer to the colonial city of Antigua. El Convento – 1 night
Day 6: To Tikal From Guatemala City, fly to Flores. Nitun Ecolodge – 1 night (B)
Day 2: To Lake Atitlán Explore the market of Comalapa before continuing to Lake Atitlán. Casa Palopo – 2 nights (B)
Day 7: To Belize Visit the Mayan ruins of Xunatunich. Chaa Creek – 2 nights (B)
Lake AtitlÁn Antigua
The Cox & Kings Experience
Day 3: Lake Atitlán Embark on a boat ride across the lake to the village of Santiago to learn about the spiritual beliefs of the T’zutujil Maya. (B) Day 4: To Antigua Return to Antigua and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. El Convento – 2 nights (B) Day 5: Antigua Immerse yourself in the process of roasting, grinding and preparing your own cup of coffee at a coffee plantation. (B)
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Day 8: Caracol Traverse the Mountain Pine Ridge Park on your way to Caracol, the largest Mayan site in Belize. (B) Day 9: To Ambergris Caye Travel to Belize City for your flight to Ambergris Caye. The Phoenix Resort – 3 nights (B) Days 10 & 11: Ambergris Caye Relax on the beach, visit the luxurious spa or go windsurfing, snorkeling, diving or fishing. (B) Day 12: Depart Belize Return to Belize to catch your onward flight. (B)
Belize City
• Roast, grind and prepare your own coffee • Explore the wonders of colonial Antigua • Visit traditional markets and bargain for handicrafts • Cruise across Lake Atitlán to learn about traditional Mayan spirituality • Discover the spectacular Mayan ruins of Tikal and Caracol • Admire the verdant landscapes of Mountain Pine Ridge Park • Kick back on the blissful white-sand beaches of Ambergris Caye
Extensions
• Costa Rica • Panama
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Private Journey
Private Journey
The Cox & Kings Experience
Manuel Antonio National Park
Super Cable, Costa Rica
Day 5: Tortuguero Embark on an exploration of the canals and lagoons of Tortuguero National Park. Return to the lodge for lunch and a free afternoon. (B, L, D)
golden shores of the Pacific Ocean, check in to your luxurious seaside resort. Parador Resort – 3 nights (B)
Option: If you’re here between July and September, choose to take an evening tour to watch the sea turtles come ashore. Day 6: To Arenal This morning, travel toward the northern lowlands, stopping en route for lunch. Upon arrival in the village of La Fortuna, admire the impressive views of the mighty Arenal Volcano. This evening, soak away the cares of the road at a local hot springs. Arenal Springs – 2 nights (B, L, D)
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Tortuguero
Arenal
Costa Rica: Coast to Coast
Monteverde Cloud Forest San José
San José, South Caribbean, Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde & Manuel Antonio
13 D A Y S & 1 2 N I G H T S
Puerto Viejo del Limón
Manuel Antonio
Located between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. Experience diverse and vibrant landscapes on this unforgettable private journey that takes you from the South Caribbean white-sand beaches of Puerto de Limón to the beautiful Pacific Ocean coastline of Manuel Antonio National Park. Along the way, visit rural villages and farms, explore the canopy of the cloud forest and soak in a hot spring near the towering Arenal Volcano. Day 1: Arrive San José, Costa Rica Upon arrival in San José, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Hotel Indigo – 1 night
its cultural allure, stunning white-sand beaches, tropical vegetation and its proximity to national parks. Shawandha Lodge – 2 nights (B, L)
Day 2: To Puerto Viejo del Limón Depart this morning for Costa Rica’s blissful southern Caribbean Coast. On the way, stop to explore the lush Veragua Rainforest. End the day on the shores of the Caribbean in the small village of Puerto Viejo de Limón, renowned for
Day 3: Puerto Viejo del Limón This morning, discover the wonders of Cahuita National Park. Do some snorkeling along the vibrant coral reef before walking through the rainforest to spot howler and white-faced monkeys, lizards, tropical birds and more. (B, L)
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Day 4: To Tortuguero Bid farewell to the south Caribbean and head north where boats will take you to your jungle lodge through some stunning patches of rainforests. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch and then visit the village of Tortuguero to get a glimpse into the lives of the local people and learn about conservation efforts to protect the endangered sea turtles that lay their eggs here each year. Laguna Lodge – 2 nights (B, L, D)
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Day 7: Arenal Volcano Spend the morning exploring the Arenal Volcano National Park where your guide will introduce you to the history of the mountain as well as the local flora and fauna. Return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are a variety of optional tours available. (B)
Day 11: Manuel Antonio National Park After breakfast, embark on a cruise to discover the beauty of the Quepos Coast. While on board, watch for the schools of dolphins that often accompany the yacht. Return to your resort this afternoon for an evening at leisure. (B, L) Day 12: Manuel Antonio National Park This morning, depart on a guided hike to savor the charms of Manuel Antonio National Park, with its white-sand beaches, placid waters and abundant wildlife. Then spend some time enjoying the amenities of your resort or relaxing on the beach. (B) Day 13: To San José / Depart This morning, return to San José to catch your onward flight. (B)
• • • • • • • •
Visit the idyllic South Caribbean Coast Tour an animal conservation project in the Veragua Rainforest Admire the views of one of the world’s most active volcanoes Explore the rainforest at night in search of nocturnal animals Ascend into the forest canopy for an unforgettable aerial tour Take a dip in a jungle hot spring Snorkel in the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean Search for monkeys and sloths in the forests of Manuel Antonio National Park
Extensions • Bocas Del Toro, Panama
Canopy Walkway Monteverde
Day 8: To Monteverde Cloud Forest Cross Arenal Lake by boat, keeping your eyes open for the great number of aquatic birds that call this area home. Continue to the famed Monteverde Cloud Forest where this evening, you can take an unforgettable walk through the nocturnal forest. Monteverde Lodge – 2 nights (B) Day 9: Monteverde Cloud Forest Ascend to the heights of the forest on this morning’s tour of the canopy, which gives you a bird’s-eye perspective on life in the jungle. This afternoon, visit a local, family-run farm where you explore various plantations, a fish farm and a shop where sugar cane is turned into sugar. (B) Day 10: To Manuel Antonio National Park Travel from the mountains to the gorgeous beach of Manuel Antonio. Upon arrival on the Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Private Journey
Cathedral, Granada
The Cox & Kings Experience
Undiscovered Nicaragua 11 D A Y S & 10 N I G H T S
Guacalito de la Isla
Managua, León, Granada &
León
Managua Jicaro Island Masaya Volcano Granada Guacalito de la Isla
San Jorge
Go off the beaten track to discover the magic of little-visited Nicaragua. From the colonial wonders of León and the grand architecture of Granada, to the splendor of the Jicaro ecolodge and Manzanillo Beach on the Pacific Coast, Nicaragua enchants with a bevy of natural and cultural delights. Along the way, cruise around the lovely islands of Lake Nicaragua and explore the forest canopy in Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve. Day 1: Arrive Managua Upon arrival in Managua, you will be met by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Hotel Casa Naranja – 1 night Day 2: To León Leave the capital en route to the colonial splendor of León, which was founded as the first capital of the country in 1524. Home to the largest cathedral in Central America as well
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as several other colonial churches, León is a colorful and artistic city steeped in a revolutionary past. Upon arrival, pay a visit to a museum honoring the famed Nicaraguan poet Rubén Darío as well as one of the best private art galleries in Latin America. End your day with a visit to the boiling volcanic mud fields of San Jacinto, which look out onto the impressive chain of volcanoes that bisects the country. Hotel el Convento – 2 nights (B, L)
Day 3: León Enjoy the day at leisure. Why not begin with a visit to the city’s cathedral, the largest religious building in Central America? Then spend some time exploring the quaint streets. Stop into one of the town’s art galleries, enjoy a cup of coffee at a café and meet some of the friendly locals. (B) Day 4: To Granada En route to Granada, stop to visit the ruins of
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Cathedral of León
Church, Nicaragua
León Viejo (Old León), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the spectacular view of the Momotombo volcano and Lake Xolotlan. Upon arrival in Nicaragua’s Granada — the third oldest city in the Western Hemisphere — board your carriage for a stately tour around the city, which concludes at the central plaza. Then indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to a cacao factory to learn how chocolate is made. Roast, winnow, grind, mix, conch, refine and mold chocolate — and leave the workshop with a sample of your own creation. Hotel Plaza Colon – 2 nights (B, L)
Days 8 & 9: Guacalito de la Isla Relish two days of leisure in your luxury boutique resort. Kick back on the beach, indulge your every whim in the spa, play the 18-hole golf course or hike forested trails in search of monkeys. (B)
Day 5: Granada Head out of town to discover the wonders of the Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve, home to one of the most pristine areas of tropical cloud forest remaining in Nicaragua. During your day here, ascend to the treetops for an unforgettable canopy tour where you can ride the zip-line from one platform to another. You’ll also have some time to hike along some of the nature trails in the reserve. As you explore, keep your eyes open for howler monkeys, tropical birds and the many different kinds of orchids found here. (B, L)
Day 10: To Managua Enjoy a leisurely morning beside the sea and soak up the tropical atmosphere before returning to Managua. Hotel Casa Naranja – 1 night (B) Day 11: Depart Managua Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
• Stroll through the friendly city of León • Shop for treasures at the Masaya market • Cruise the waters of Lake Nicaragua • Discover the colonial legacy of Granada • Thrill to a zip-line excursion in the cloud forest canopy • Take a ferry to Ometepe Island to admire the volcanoes • Spend a blissful night at the Jicaro ecolodge • Search for howler monkeys on the Mombacho Volcano trails • Enjoy some rest and relaxation on Manzanillo Beach
Extensions • Guanacaste, Costa Rica National Palace Managua, Nicaragua La Recoleccion Church
Day 6: Masaya Volcano & Nicaragua Lake Begin your day with a visit to Nicaragua’s first national park, which surrounds the Masaya volcano. After an orientation at the interpretive center, travel to the summit of the volcano to see the crater. Descend to browse the wares at the Masaya arts and crafts market. This afternoon, return to Granada and board your boat to Jicaro Island. Upon arrival, spend some time relaxing or begin your exploration of the island. Jicaro Island Ecolodge – 1 night (B, L) Day 7: To Guacalito de la Isla Enjoy a morning at leisure before boarding the ferry back to San Jorge. Upon arrival, you’ll be taken directly to the golden shores of Manzanillo Beach at Guacalito de la Isla, a 1,670-acre private beach community on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast. Mukul Resort – 3 nights (B, L) Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758
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Private Journey
Girl in Traditional Dress, Panama
Embera Drua Village, Panama
Panama: Land of Diversity
San Blas
Boquete
Panama City, San Blas Islands, Panama Highlands, Boquete & Gamboa Rainforest 11 D A Y S & 10 N I G H T S
Discover Panama’s luxuriant jungles, indigenous cultures, colonial towns and idyllic islands on this captivating journey. Explore the San Blas archipelago, the highlands near Boquete and the rainforest of Chagres National Park. Along the way, cruise the Panama Canal, snorkel with colorful tropical fish and explore the cloud forest canopy.
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David
The Cox & Kings Experience
Day 1: Arrive Panama City Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Las Clementinas – 2 nights
canopy tour through the cloud forest. Later, head to the coast for a boat trip to the island of Boca Brava. Cala Mia Boutique Hotel – 2 nights (B)
Day 2: Panama Canal Embark on a cruise of the Panama Canal. (B, L)
Day 7: Cala Mia Savor a day at leisure in this tropical paradise. (B)
Day 3: To San Blas Archipelago Fly to San Blas and take a boat to your lodge. Relax on the beach or visit the local Kuna tribe. Akwadup Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D)
Day 8: To Gamboa Rainforest Resort Return to Panama City en route to the rainforest. Gamboa Rainforest Resort – 3 nights (B)
Day 9: The Rainforest Set out on a boat trip and hike through the forest. Or discover the natural history of the largest forested island in the area. (B)
Day 4: To Panama City / Boquete Return to the capital for a tour of Casco Antiguo. Then fly to David and on to Boquete. Los Establos Mountain Lodge – 2 nights (B)
Day 5: Highlands Enjoy a day at leisure. Why not take an optional hike or white-water rafting trip. (B, Box Lunch)
Day 10: Chagres National Park Travel by dugout canoe to the village of Embera Drua to learn about life in the rainforest. (B, L)
Day 6: Highlands / Gulf of Chiriquí Visit a local coffee plantation or take a zip-line
Day 11: Depart Panama City Return to Panama City for your onward flight. (B)
Panama
• • • • • • •
Visit indigenous villages by dugout canoe and learn about traditional ways of life in the rainforest Explore the colonial heart of Panama City Experience the mighty Panama Canal on an unforgettable cruise Visit with the local Kuna tribe Search for the elusive resplendent quetzals in the glorious cloud forest Indulge yourself on an idyllic tropical beach Hike through the rainforest and learn about the natural history of the jungle
Extensions • Buenaventura
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Perito Moreno Glacier
Travel in Latin America At Cox & Kings we believe that a good holiday is not luck but judgment. We have compiled the following advice to outline the nature of travel in Latin America and to help you prepare for your holiday. Even with the most meticulous planning, however, minor problems can occur and, while our local representatives are always on hand to rectify such occurrences, we do request that you have a patient and broadminded approach to traveling in Latin America. Flights Internal Flights / Delays / Insurance: Many countries within Latin America have their own air pass and, wherever possible, our programs will be constructed with the appropriate air pass, which will minimize the costs of the internal flight. Please note that the majority of air passes have restrictions; therefore if you require an itinerary with full flexibility, please contact your tour consultant who will advise the additional cost to provide you with a more flexible ticket. Please also note that in certain cases we may not be able to book internal flights under an air pass. In this event a supplement may be payable. Because of increased air traffic, government restrictions and/or changing weather conditions, flight delays have become more commonplace. These delays can cause problems with your holiday arrangements, and additional costs may well be involved. This may be in the form of added accommodation costs, transfers and/or onward tickets. If this should occur, everything possible will be done to minimize the inconvenience. Cox & Kings will endeavor to ensure that arrangements go as smoothly as possible. As services are paid for in advance any services missed due to delays and/or schedule changes are non-refundable. Please also bear in mind that many international flight tickets are non-changeable and non-refundable. The insurance policy offered by Cox & Kings is designed to mitigate the costs and effects of such delays in certain circumstances and we strongly advise that you are insured against such eventualities. Flight Amendments: Flights on these programs are in general quoted separately and use special airfare. These have certain conditions, which normally restrict changes of date, route and airline. Any such change made after a ticket has been issued will normally necessitate the purchase of a new ticket at the passenger’s expense. Airport Departure Taxes: Most cities in Latin America levy a departure tax for passengers departing on international flights, which have to be paid in local currency or the equivalent in US dollars. Other cities within a country may also levy a small charge for departures on domestic flights. Occasionally, taxes may be included on your ticket and we will advise you accordingly. Since there is no standard charge between countries, and taxes are subject to change, it is not possible to list the taxes in this brochure. We will advise you of the current charge with your final documents, and our local agents will confirm the amount payable on arrival. Please ensure you keep enough local currency or US dollars to cover these taxes.
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particularly, conditions are very dusty and / or bumpy, and the road journeys tend to be quite strenuous. Road conditions change throughout the year and heavy rain and extreme weather patterns can affect journey times. Types of vehicles vary according to the country visited and the numbers on a tour: on escorted groups, transport will usually be in the form of a European-style coach or, for smaller groups, may be by mini-bus. On individual journeys, transport will generally be by sedan car. In destinations where conditions require it, off road driving will be in 4 x 4 vehicles. Early Starts During some itineraries, it may be necessary to depart for excursions or transfers to the airport very early in the morning, sometimes before dawn. This is normally either due to the flight schedules within Latin America, or in order for us to maximize the opportunities for sightseeing during your tour. A number of flights to Latin America arrive / depart early in the morning and, while we will endeavor to schedule your tour with a flight which arrives / departs at a reasonable time, sometimes there is little or no alternative and early check-in / check-out times may be required. Accommodation Accommodation standards vary dramatically throughout Latin America. In the larger cities, the hotels we use are fully modernized and have excellent facilities, unless you choose to opt for the more colonial style property, where facilities may be limited. In some smaller cities and more remote areas, we try to offer the best hotels available. However, these may be quite simple - sometimes small colonial-style properties, in which rooms may vary in size - and often have relatively basic facilities. Please note, all rooms reserved on your tour are standard; however, if you wish to upgrade your room (e.g. to a lake or falls view, deluxe or suite etc.), please speak to your tour consultant, who will be able to advise you about the options and the applicable supplements. Check-in & Check-out Times: For all group and individual tours, hotel checkin / out time is normally 3:00 pm, but this does vary between hotels. Jungle Lodges & Remote Areas: Accommodation in some wildlife lodges in the Amazon rainforest, are not comparable to the better properties found in parts of Africa and Asia. Accommodation is often reached via narrow and unpaved roads, or by boat, and can be a long way from other civilization. Even when you travel off the beaten track with Cox & Kings, you can be sure that your accommodation is the best available; however sometimes the best hotel may be the only hotel, which may be very modest. In these cases, we feel that the inconvenience of such accommodation is outweighed by the experience of staying in these more remote areas. Meals
Road Travel
Meals included in the journeys are indicated in the itineraries at the end of each day with codes: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L) and Dinner (D).
Generally, road travel in Latin America is reasonably good, however conditions vary greatly between the modern capital cities and the more remote areas. When traveling off the beaten track, roads are frequently narrow, bumpy, pot-holed and have stretches which are not paved, or which are under reconstruction. In Costa Rica, northern Chile and Bolivia
Type of travel is indicated in the maps at the beginning of each itinerary with symbols: Surface Travel ( ), Air Travel ( ), Train Travel ( ), Cruise Travel ( ).
Maps
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Latin America Fact File ARGENTINA
BELIZE
Capital: Buenos Aires Currency: Peso Official Language(s): Spanish Visa or Fees: No Visa required. A $160 reciprocity fee is due. This fee is paid once and is valid for the life of the passport.
Capital: Belize City Currency: Belizean dollar Official Language(s): English
Argentina is a land of stunning natural beauty, from the wild windswept fjords of Tierra del Fuego to the high plateau landscapes of the north. As well as lively cities and fantastic food and wine, Argentina offers two of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders in Iguazú Falls and the Perito Moreno Glacier. What To See The energetic capital of Buenos Aires is a fantastic place to wander around and soak up the atmosphere, catch an impromptu tango session, enjoy superb steaks in some of its many fine restaurants and sample the lively nightlife. The plains of Patagonia can be divided into coastal Patagonia and inland Patagonia. In Inland Patagonia, at the foot of the Andes, lies Los Glacieres National Park with the Perito Moreno Glacier, an inspiring sight. Coastal Patagonia’s Peninsula Valdes offers excellent wildlife viewing, including the world’s largest penguin colony at Punta Tombo Reserve, and opportunities to see southern right whales, sea lions, elephant seals, guanacos and maras (Patagonian hares). Further north around the town of Bariloche, lies the Lake District, a region of beautiful forests, lakes and mountains and a great place for outdoor activities. The wine-producing town of Mendoza is a stylish city which enjoys a stunning location in the foothills of the Andes. It is possible to visit a number of the city’s world-class vineyards. When To Go Argentina’s seasons are reversed from the northern hemispheres. The best times to visit Buenos Aires are in spring and autumn. Mendoza and the Lake District are spectacular in autumn, when the leaves on the trees turn red and brown. For Patagonia, the best time to go is during the summer months (winter in US), as many services are unavailable in the winter.
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A British colony until 1981, Belize has a laid-back feel that has more in common with the Caribbean than other countries in Central America. Despite having a population of just 300,000, Belize offers a diverse range of attractions, from jungle walks, Mayan temples, superb snorkeling (Belize has the second largest coral reef system in the world) and isolated island retreats. What To See The cayes off the coast of Belize are perfect for snorkeling, sea fishing, canoeing or just relaxing. One of the most famous is Ambergris Caye, where Cox & Kings offers the best accommodations available. This pretty region is very unspoiled. When To Go Peak season for visiting Belize is from December to March, when there are clear skies and warm temperatures. Hurricanes threaten the coastal regions from June to November. BOLIVIA Capital: Sucre Currency: Boliviano Official Language(s): Spanish, Quechua, Aymara From the high altiplano of the north, to the vast salt flats and strange desert landscapes in the south and tropical jungle in the east, Bolivia is a land of diversity. There is a very strong presence of indigenous communities and even in the capital of La Paz ladies go about their daily business in traditional dress and distinctive black bowler hats. Over half the population is from Quechua, Aymara and other indigenous ethnic groups. The country is still very much developing its tourist infrastructure and although the stunning scenery and hospitable people make any trip so worthwhile, the accommodation outside of main cities should be considered basic. What To See The capital La Paz has a dramatic setting in
a bowl surrounded by the high mountains of the altiplano. This city, at 4000 meters above sea level, is the highest capital in the world. La Paz is excellent for shopping, with a number of stalls selling typical Andean handicrafts as well as the fascinating witches market, where they sell all manner of strange potions. The ancient silver-mining town of Potosi, the highest city in the world, is worth visiting for its interesting silver mining museum, and it also has a number of beautiful colonial cathedrals. The town of Sucre is considered by many Bolivianos to be the most beautiful city, with its whitewashed colonial buildings and relaxed atmosphere. The Salar de Uyuni is the world’s highest salt flats, an otherworldly place with a unique atmosphere. Lake Titicaca is one of the most naturally beautiful paces in South America. The lake is so high that it seems to shimmer and reflect the beautiful snowcapped peaks of the Andes which surround it. It is worth spending a night on the Isla del Sol to fully appreciate this area’s magical qualities, supposedly the birthplace of the Inca sun god. Bolivia also features a large part of the Amazon in the north, and a good place to stay is Chalalan Lodge in Madidi National Park, where you can do jungle walks, canoe trips, and look for jaguar and monkey as well as birdlife. When To Go In the summer which is from November to April the rainy season occurs, this is when overland transportation becomes difficult if not impossible in some areas. The best and most comfortable time for exploring the whole country is during winter from May to October with its dry, clear days. BRAZIL Capital: Brasilia Currency: Real Official Language(s): Portuguese Visa or Fees: It is required for US travelers to obtain a Brazil Visa prior to US departure. Brazil is renowned for its distinctive culture and vigorous lust for life. Its vastness means the scenery ranges from the wetlands of the Pantanal
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Latin America Fact File through miles of pristine beaches and the amazing biodiversity of the Amazon.
everywhere you are, the majestic Andes, provide a spectacular backdrop.
What To See There is a lot to do in glamorous Rio de Janeiro. Sugar Loaf and Corcovado Mountains offer views of the city’s stunning natural setting, with ocean, bays, mountains, jungle and beaches in all directions. Manaus is the gateway to Brazil’s Amazon, the most diverse ecosystem on the planet. To explore the Amazon one can either take a cruise or stay at one of the Amazon lodges, which are ideal for those with limited time. The Pantanal is the place to see wildlife in Brazil. The Iguassu Falls are one of the natural wonders of the world, the sheer volume of water and jungle setting making them a year-round sight. Brazil is also famous for its beaches, and in addition to the more widely-known areas such as Bahia and Rio, we can recommend a visit where you can find pristine beaches and sandy street villages.
What To See The scenery and landscapes of Chile are all so varied that there are so many things to see. The Atacama Desert has some incredible sights: watching the flamingos at the salt flat as the sun sets behind the mountains and star-gazing in some of the world’s clearest skies. Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, the far south of the country, is a walker’s and photographer’s natural paradise. It is a beautiful area of stunning mountains and crystal clear lakes. A five-hour drive from the nearest airport at Punta Arenas into Torres del Paine National Park, it is definitely remote. Because of the length of the country, it is impossible to avoid taking domestic flights. This means it is inevitable that nights are needed in Santiago when flights don’t connect. For a capital city in South America, there isn’t a great deal to see or do, so excellent alternatives are the wine lands in the Casablanca Valley and the quirky port city of Valparaíso, both easily accessible from Santiago airport. Easter Island, owned by Chile but lying almost half way across the Pacific Ocean and more Polynesian than Chilean, is another unique destination, shrouded in mystery and intrigue that few people ever experience. The history of the Moai is not known and no one really understands the origins of neither the stelae nor how they came to be on the islands.
When To Go The Amazon has a similar climate all-year-round. Rio is another year-round destination, although it can get quite hot during the summer months from December to March. The best time to visit the Pantanal is during the dry season from late April to October. This coincides with the nesting and breeding season, and because areas of water are more scarce, there are higher concentrations of animals around the water. CHILE Capital: Santiago Currency: Chilean Peso (CPL) Official Language(s): Spanish Visa or Fees: No Visa required. A $160 reciprocity fee is due upon arrival. This fee is paid once and is valid for the life of the passport. Beginning in the north at the Peruvian border, Chile stretches most of the length of South America all the way to Tierra del Fuego in the south. From the lunar desert landscapes of Atacama to the wilderness of Patagonia, Chile is a country of incredible contrasts. At its widest point Chile is less than 350 km so almost
When To Go Traditionally Chile is considered best to visit from December to March, as this is the South American summer. However, the Atacama area can be visited all year round, as due to the high altitudes, days are warm and nights are always cold. Torres del Paine National Park is very busy from November to February as this is peak months for hikers. In the winter from June to August, there is often snow and the winds from Antarctica are much lower so although cold, it doesn’t feel as biting as perhaps during the other months. During these months, the park is much quieter but some areas are inaccessible due to snowfall. Easter Island can be visited all year but is quieter outside of the summer months.
COLOMBIA Capital: Bogotá Currency: Colombian Peso Official Language(s): Spanish Colombia offers an intriguing mix of forgotten ancient cultures, colonial architecture and Caribbean beaches. The country is much safer now than it has been in recent years. The most popular place to visit in Colombia is the colonial city of Cartagena, on the Caribbean coast – one of the best preserved in all of Latin America. What To See Colombia is the only country in South America with coasts on the Pacific and Caribbean. It’s a beautiful country, with the Andes, beaches, colonial cities and archaeological treasures. When To Go Colombia’s proximity to the equator means its temperature varies little throughout the year. The temperature does change with altitude, creating various climatic zones from hot lowlands to freezing Andean peaks, so you can experience completely different climates within a couple of hours of travel. The most pleasant time to visit Colombia is in the dry season, between December and March or in July and August. COSTA RICA Capital: San José (Costa Rica) Currency: Colon Official Language(s): Spanish Costa Rica is a nature-lovers paradise. From mountains and volcanoes to rainforests and beaches, Costa Rica has something for everyone. Home to more than 500,000 species, the country has one of the highest biodiversities in the world. There are 25 national parks but over 25% of the country is protected by the Government. What To See On the northern Caribbean coast is the Tortuguero National Park, an area of man-made canals in thick jungle. From June to September, large populations of Leatherback turtles nest on the beaches. North of San José is the cloud forest
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Latin America Fact File of Monteverde. Only accessible by long drives on bumpy unpaved roads, the locals’ ineffective way of minimizing the amount of tourists coming to the Reserve, Monteverde is teeming with wildlife. Arenal Volcano National Park is another must see on any tour of Costa Rica. The volcano is one of the country’s most active and visitors come to relax in the many hot springs and to see the almost nightly eruptions and lava-flows. When To Go Costa Rica has a tropical climate and best time to visit is between December and May in the dry season, when temperatures are also slightly cooler. The wet season starts in May and runs through to November. Mornings are then usually clear with rain in the afternoons however at this time some roads may become difficult to pass and there are often mudslides. ECUADOR & GALÁPAGOS Capital: Quito Currency: US Dollar Official Language(s): Spanish Ecuador has something for everyone: from snow-capped volcanoes in the high Andes Mountains and tropical rainforest in the Amazon to the coastal banana plantations and the famous wildlife of the Galápagos Islands. In the highland towns there is still a dominant Inca culture and although lesser known than those in neighboring Peru, there are some interesting sites to visit and colorful authentic market towns to see. What To See For most people, Ecuador is considered to be the gateway to the Galápagos Islands. The islands offer visitors the chance to see species that cannot be found anywhere else and at an incredibly close distance. The best way to see the islands and all they have to offer is by boat. There is a wide range of boats of all sizes and styles offering 3, 4 and 7-day cruises each with slightly different itineraries. For those who prefer to sleep on dry land, there are several hotels from where you can then take a boat out each day to some of the islands located close by. On mainland Ecuador, the capital Quito
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is located high up in the Andes surrounded by mountains. In the north, the town of Otavalo has a fantastic daily market selling traditional handicrafts and colorful hand-woven textiles. On Saturdays the locals descend on the town to buy and sell fruit, vegetables and livestock. The lodges in the Ecuadorian Amazon give perhaps the most authentic Amazon experience in South America. There are some fantastic deluxe lodges accessible only by light aircraft and river but the journey along the tributaries does offer a chance to spot interesting flora and fauna. When To Go For Quito and the Andean towns the best time to visit is the dry season between April and November. The Galápagos are an all year round destination: it is drier between June and December but the water is warmer between December and May. The water can get rougher in September. The drier season in the Amazon is from May to September. GUATEMALA Capital: Guatemala City Currency: Quetzal Official Language(s): Spanish Guatemala is located in Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north, El Salvador to the west, Belize to the East and Honduras to the south. It has a very rich, indigenous culture. What To See Many Mayan ruins which are worth visiting. Other attractions include the colonial city of Antigua, the original Spanish capital and Lake Atitlan, a lake located in the center of the country, surrounded by high mountains and volcanic peaks. When To Go The dry season runs from November to April. Although the climate is generally spring-like all year round. MEXICO Capital: Mexico City (Distrito Federal) Currency: Mexican Peso Official Language(s): Spanish
Latin America Fact File
Mexico has a rich history evident in its array of stunning Mayan and Aztec ruins, as well as the more recent legacy of the Spanish conquest in beautiful colonial towns such as San Miguel de Allende and Merida. As well as a strong and colorful indigenous culture, Mexico also has spectacular scenery of canyons, valleys, waterfalls, tropical rainforests and stunning beaches.
What To See Nicaragua’s biggest attraction is Granada, a quaint old colonial town with Spanish churches and cobbled streets. Next to Granada is Lake Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America. Here you can go on boat tours or stay on one of the lake’s islands and see the local way of life.
What To See Mexico City is a busy and exciting Latin American capital with plenty of sights to justify spending a few days there. In the city center alone there are ancient Aztec temple ruins (Templo Mayor), impressive colonial buildings and the world renowned Museum of Anthropology. Also worth seeing is the house where Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo lived, and the city’s Venice-like canals. 25 miles northeast of Mexico City lies the enormous archaeological site of Teotihuacan, once the largest city in the Americas. Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most beautiful colonial towns, and is close to the Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban and the splendid wall mosaics at Mitla. Also in this region is the pretty colonial city of San Cristobal de las Casas, which has many impressive colonial buildings and a laidback atmosphere. Nearby are the Tzotzil Mayan communities of Zincantan and Chamula, a fascinating region which has autonomous status in Mexico and a local form of Catholicism which blends pre-conquest Mayan customs, Spanish Catholic traditions and subsequent innovations such as the idolatry of Coca Cola.
When To Go Nicaragua’s climate is tropical; the country’s climate can be divided into three distinct climatic regions: the coast along the Caribbean Sea, the Pacific Ocean and the northern mountainous region. The coast which faces the Pacific Ocean has its dry season which runs from December to April, while the rainy season is between May and November. The coast of the Caribbean Sea is more rainy, here the rainy season is 9 months, while the dry season is between March and May. In September-October there may be hurricanes. The mountainous northern region has a cooler climate, and the rain is concentrated in the months between May and October. The best period for visiting Nicaragua is the dry season from December to April.
When To Go From the end of November to May is the best time to visit Mexico in order to avoid the hurricane season.
Panama offers a variety of different landscapes and cultures. The metropolis of Panama City, biodiversity of the canal watershed and tropical islands give you the opportunity to experience a great deal in this small country.
Nicaragua is one of Central America’s most off the- beaten tracks destinations, but it is easy to get around, offers a good introduction to colorful Latin life and colonial history, and has a pretty scenery of volcanoes and lakes.
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When To Go Panama’s climate is tropical; the country’s climate can be divided into three distinct climatic regions: the coast along the Caribbean Sea, the Pacific Ocean and the mountainous region. The heat is not so bad between December and April. The coast which faces the Pacific Ocean has its dry season which runs from December to April, while the rainy season is between May and November. Average temperatures for this area are 80°F. The coast of the Caribbean Sea is more rainy, here the rainy season is 9 months, while the dry season is between March and May, the annual average temperatures are 79°F, in September - October there may be hurricanes. The mountainous northern region has a cooler climate, and the rain is concentrated in the months between May and October. The best period for visiting is the dry season from December to April. PERU
PANAMA Capital: Panama City Currency: Balboa Official Language(s): Spanish Visa or Fees: A tourist card, costing $5, will be needed to be purchased on arrival.
NICARAGUA Capital: Managua Currency: Córdoba Official Language(s): Spanish
Drua and the island Kuna Indians to the Spanish colonists, the living heritage of its people is what brings to this warm country. Volcanoes, beaches, adventure and coffee farms round out Panama’s most alluring attractions.
What To See Panama’s biggest attraction is Panama Canal. It is not necessary to cruise from the Pacific to the Caribbean to experience the wonder of this man-made engineering feat. Board a small skiff for an intimate encounter with the various wildlife as enormous cargo ships pass almost silently in the background. Panama has a rich cultural history. From the indigenous people of the Embera
of Incan and Spanish colonial architecture. The whole of this region is set against a backdrop of lush green mountains, and is what sets Peru apart from any other Latin America country. When To Go In the Andes region, the green season lasts from November to March, though January and February are the wettest months. The rain is not constant or regular but there can be heavy downpours. In the dry season, between April and September, days can be sunny and warm while spring and autumn can be quite mixed, with plenty of sunny days but chance of rain. Nights are cold year round, due to the altitudes. The coast has a dry climate all year round. Cool winds from the coast produce an almost ever present mist, called ‘Garua’. Temperatures remain warm throughout the year, although the low cloud can often give the feeling of light drizzle. URUGUAY Capital: Montevideo Currency: Uruguayan Peso Official Language(s): Spanish, Brazilero
Portunol
or
Capital: Lima Currency: Peruvian Sol Official Language(s): Spanish
Colonia offers a nice contrast to the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires across the River Plate, with its white-washed colonial buildings, tree-lined streets and restaurants overlooking the river.
Peru offers a superb combination of stunning scenery, fascinating history and colorful local culture. It is a place where the Inca culture feels very much alive, in the wonderfully preserved remains and in the Quechan language and colorful weavings of the Andean people. It also has more than its fair share of unforgettable sights, from the mysterious Nazca lines to colonial cities and pre-Colombian sites.
What To See Other sites worth seeing include the Market in Montevideo, which is a great place to wander about and enjoy a typical Asado (barbeque). Punta del Este has excellent beaches but a few too many casino-style hotels, and is very popular with Argentinean vacationers.
What To See First on the list for any visitor to Peru must be the magical Machu Picchu, high up in the Andes and a scenic train journey from Cusco. The industry of the Incas amazes elsewhere as well, with the precise masonry at Sacsayhuaman near Cusco, and the agricultural terraces in the Sacred Valley. Cusco retains a magical atmosphere with its clash
When To Go Since Uruguay’s major attraction is its beaches, the most ideal time to visit is in the summer. Between late April and November, it is generally much cooler. July’s average temperature is a chilly 52°F. In the summer, temperatures can be very hot by the coast but higher up in the hills it is a lot cooler. January’s average maximum is between 70°F and 79°F.
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Dancers, Cusco
Festivals in Latin America Many Latin American holidays revolve around the Catholic calendar so you can expect to encounter many festivals that center around common Christian traditions, some of which have been blended with indigenous traditions for truly unique celebrations. Saints days and holy days are celebrated on a regular basis usually resulting in the closing of local businesses and accompanied by religious processions.
FESTIVAL
LOCATION
MONTH
Huaso Festival
Olmué, Chile
January
This festival highlights not only the musical traditions of the Chilean cowboy, but their horsemanship, decorative outfits and dances.
DESCRIPTION
Jazz Festival
Panama City
January
This week-long music education festival showcases jazz artists from Panama and other countries, and it also features master classes in jazz history and performance, among other topics.
Carnival
Throughout Brazil
February
Four days before Ash Wednesday - The most popular festival, it mixes emotions, creativity, colors, sounds and many breathtaking costumes. People dance with joy and freedom as the contagious carioca spirit affects all who come from all over the world to experience it. A big parade of various Samba schools - each representing a different neighborhood or social club from different areas of Rio.
Tapati Festival
Easter Island, Chile
February
This festival is a mix of carnival type activities, sports, theatrical presentations and homage to the island, also known as Rapa Nui. The festival covers several weeks at the end of January and into February. Dance competitions for all ages, parades with floats and costumed figures, and the crowning of the queen of the festival are highlights of the celebrations.
Carnival
Baranquilla
February
Four days before Ash Wednesday – Baranquilla’s Carnival is 2nd in size to the one in Rio de Janeiro and has been proclaimed a UNESCO Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. It is the most-awaited festival of the year by all who wish to enjoy this cultural and folkloric event characterized by ethnic diversity, merriment, dance, music, and entertainment.
Virgen de la Candelaria
Puno, Peru
February
This festival highlights not only the musical traditions of the Chilean cowboy, but their horsemanship, decorative outfits and dances. Puno, perhaps the epicenter of Peruvian folklore, imbues its festivals with a unique vibrancy. The festival gathers more than 200 groups of musicians and dancers to celebrate the Mamacha Candelaria. Families and organizations save all year to buy the elaborate uniquely designed costumes and mask.
Vendimia (Wine Harvest Festival)
Mendoza, Argentina
March
It is one of the most important festivals in the country. Preparations for this festival start in the early months of the year throughout the province and the main event occurs the first week of March in Mendoza. The celebrations include folkloric festivals, religious ceremonies to bless the grapes, crowning of the Reina Nacional de la Vendimia, sports events and a lot of wine and merriment.
Oruro Carnaval
Oruro, Bolivia
March
Around 600,000 people line the streets during Oruro Carnival with hundreds of traditional Bolivian bands, thousands of traditional dancers and a procession that takes a full day to end. The parade is led by San Miguel who is followed by devils, El Tio - lord of the underworld and lots of conquistadores painted like devils. This parade makes its way to the soccer stadium where good triumphs over evil through the art of dance. Also many farmers and miners offer the fruit of their labor for the carnival.
Phujllay Festival
Tarabuco, Bolivia
March
This Latin America festival begins with a Quechua mass, then a chicha and ceibo fuelled procession of folkloric dances. Eventually the Pukhara altar is decorated with flowers, fruits, vegetables, bread and bottles of alcohol. There is also the election of a virgin princess.
Semana Santa (Holy Week)
Antigua, Guatemala
April
Antigua hosts the most beautiful religious celebration in the Americas, when huge processions wind their way through the town’s streets. Actually, the celebration begins on Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, and reaches its climax on Good Friday, when Antigua streets are thronged with processions and reverent spectator. The processions consist of big floats, or 'andas', bearing statues of Christ with a cross, that are carried by hundreds of purple-robed men. A float with the Virgin Mary follows by women dressed in black clothing.
Feria de San Marcos
Aguascalientes, Mexico
April
The history of this Mexican Fiesta began in the early 1800's as an agriculture fair and livestock market. However its beautiful location soon drew crowds from all over, leading to the numbers that attend today. More than a million people, a huge parade to commemorate San Marco around the last weekend in April (or the 25th). Traditional Mexican events such as cockfights, bull fights, rodeos, traditional poetry, dance both traditional and interpretations of Flamenco and music. International stars who have performed here include Shakira and Julio Iglesias. It is also legal to gamble in the casino only during this Mexican Fiesta.
Cinco de Mayo
Puebla, Mexico
May
The holiday of Cinco de Mayo, the 5th of May, commemorates the victory of the Mexican militia over the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It is primarily a regional holiday celebrated in the Mexican state capital city of Puebla and throughout the state of Puebla, with some limited recognition in other parts of Mexico, and especially in U.S. cities with a significant Mexican population. It is not, as many people think, Mexico's Independence Day, which is actually September 16.
Inti Raymi
Cusco, Peru
June
The Festival of the Sun, one of the greatest pageants in South America, celebrates the winter solstice and honors the Inca sun god with a bounty of colorful Andean parades, music, and dance.
Virgin of The Sea: Puntarenas
Costa Rica
July (Saturday closest to July 16)
This popular Costa Rican celebration consists of a colorful regatta of decorated fishing boats and yachts in the Nicoya Gulf to salute Puntarenas’ Patron Saint, the Virgin of Mount Carmel. Fishing boats and yachts are decorated with lights and flags and sail around the harbor. Special masses, parades, concerts, dances, sports events and fireworks are all enacted in her honor.
Tango Festival
Buenos Aires, Argentina
August
After a week full of concerts, workshops and dance lessons, this festival is crowned by a great outdoor milonga which also opens the “Campeonato Mundial de Baile de Tango”, very famous because this is an opportunity for dancers to really enjoy the dance floor.
Flower Festival
Medellín, Colombia
August
This feast of flowers lasts ten days. It offers over 140 cultural, traditional, and modern events, the following among them: a horse fair, an orchestra festival, the national trova festival (singers in duels of improvised verses), an old and classic cars parade, a dog walk, musical and cultural platforms, the festival of remembrance and folk songs, a contest of talented women, the chiva carnival (a chiva is the typical opensided bus built on a truck chassis), and the national championship of noise on wheels.
Fiesta San Miguel
Uncia, Bolivia
September
This Latin America festival has parades, beers and the infamous Tinku dances. It's part a mix of conquistador and indigenous Indian beliefs. El Tinku translated as "encounter" originates from San Miguel defending Uncia from evil by breathing fire at any devil attempting to attack the town. Fiesta De San Miguel in Uncia has met much criticism from both the government and major religions of Bolivia.
Day of the Dead
Mexico
November
Dia de los Muertos is a celebration of people who have passed away. It is a mix between Catholic tradition and Aztec rituals for the deceased. It's a time of prayer and communicating with the dead but also a time to celebrate your life. Traditions include building an altar to loved ones adorned with skulls (fake ones), sugar skulls, tall candles, marigold flowers and enjoying a feast of their favorite food.
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Weather Chart
Distance Chart
Latin America is so vast and climatically diverse that there are no hard and fast rules for the best times to travel. Therefore, it is advisable to refer to the detailed information below, relevant to the particular region you are considering. ARGENTINA Buenos Aires: The Argentinean capital and surrounding region is hot in summer from November to April and can be fairly cool in winter, although it is often mild even in mid winter. It is also fairly dry year-round. Buenos Aires
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
82.4
80.6
77
69.8
64.4
59
57.2
60.8
62.6
69.8
73.4
78.8
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
69.8
68
66.2
59
53.6
48.2
46.4
50
51.8
57.2
62.6
68
BELIZE Belize is hot year round and even hotter in the west due to the absence of coastal winds. Rainfall levels vary considerably year on year, but generally the rainy season runs from June to October. Belize City
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
80.6
80.6
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
66.2
68
Oct
Nov
Dec
84.2
86
87.8
87.8
87.8
87.8
69.8
73.4
75.2
75.2
75.2
75.2
87.8
86
82.4
80.6
75.2
71.6
68
68
La Paz
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
89.6
91.4
89.6
80.6
78.8
77
75.2
75.2
75.2
77
80.6
87.8
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
73.4
73.4
71.6
69.8
66.2
64.4
64.4
64.4
64.4
68
69.8
71.6
BRAZIL Rio de Janeiro: The carnival capital enjoys an almost ideal climate, warm and generally sunny, with rain usually falling in short showers. The hottest months are December, January and February, and the coolest are June, July and August, although even these months are warm. Rio de Janeiro
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
89.6
91.4
89.6
80.6
78.8
77
75.2
75.2
75.2
77
80.6
87.8
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
73.4
73.4
71.6
69.8
66.2
64.4
64.4
64.4
64.4
68
69.8
71.6
CHILE Chile’s length means that it is home to an extraordinary variety of climates, from the driest desert in the world in the north, to the frozen wilderness of Patagonia in the south. Santiago & the Central Region: The southern hemisphere summer (October to March) is the best time to visit, with warm temperatures and little rain. Winter can be cold and wet. Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
71.6
69.8
69.8
69.8
71.6
71.6
71.6
73.4
73.4
71.6
71.6
71.6
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
46.4
46.4
46.4
46.4
46.4
46.4
44.6
44.6
44.6
46.4
46.4
46.4
From
Guatemala The altitude has a significant bearing on the climate. The central plateau, including Guatemala City, Antigua and Lake Atitlan, has warm days and cool nights. The northern jungle region around Tikal is hotter and stickier, although nights can be cool. The wet ‘green’ season is from May to October. Antigua
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
93.2
93.2
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
66.2
66.2
95
95
93.2
91.4
91.4
91.4
89.6
89.6
91.4
91.4
68
71.6
71.6
71.6
71.6
71.6
71.6
71.6
69.8
68
Lima, Peru
Mexico Mexico City & the Central Plateau: This region has a mild, spring-like climate due to the altitude.
BOLIVIA Bolivia’s climate is dominated by altitude, with a big difference between dominant altiplano (high plains), where most of the tourist sites are located, and the eastern jungle. The dry season, which falls between May and November, is the best time to visit. It can be cold year round and due to the altitude, it is frequently very cold at night. When it is sunny, daytime temperatures can be pleasant and mild.
Santiago
Quito
APPROXIMATE FLYING TIMES
Jun
Arequipa, Peru
1 hr 25 mins
Juliaca, Peru
2 hrs 40 mins *makes 1 stop in Cusco
Iquitos, Peru
1 hr 45 mins
Buenos Aires, Argentina
4 hrs 25 mins
Quito, Ecuador
Salvador, Brazil
2 hrs
Manaus, Brazil
5 hrs 20 mins *makes 1 stop in Brasilia
Iguassu Falls, Brazil
2 hrs 05 mins
Florianopolis, Brazil
1 hr 35 mins
2 hrs 20 mins
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
3 hrs 30 mins / 25 mins
Guayaquil, Ecuador
2 hrs 05 mins
Monteverde, Costa Rica
3 hrs 30 mins / N/A
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
5 hrs 00 mins
Quepos, Costa Rica
3 hrs 30 mins / 25 mins
Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica
N/A / 1 hr 05 mins
Bocas del Toro, Panama
N/A / 1 hr
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Santiago, Chile
3 hrs 20 mins
73.4
77
78.8
78.8
75.2
73.4
73.4
71.6
71.6
71.6
69.8
50
53.6
55.4
57.2
57.2
55.4
55.4
55.4
53.6
50
48.2
Guayaquil, Ecuador
55 mins
Baltra, Galápagos
3 hrs 05 mins *makes 1 stop in Guayaquil
Bogotá, Colombia
1 hr 25 mins
Bariloche, Argentina
2 hrs 25 mins
Mendoza, Argentina
1 hr 55 mins
El Calafate, Argentina
3 hrs 15 mins
Ushuaia, Argentina
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
69.8
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
46.4
The Yucatan Peninsula: Proximity to the coast dictates the heat and humidity. The jungle areas are hot and humid, while the Caribbean areas are cooled by sea breezes. There can be rainfall from July to September, which is hurricane season. Merida
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
86
87.8
91.4
95
96.8
95
93.2
93.2
91.4
89.6
87.8
86
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
64.4
64.4
68
71.6
73.4
75.2
73.4
73.4
73.4
71.6
68
64.4
Quito, Ecuador
NICARAGUA Nicaragua’s climate is tropical; the country’s climate can be divided into three distinct climatic regions: the coast along the Caribbean Sea, the coast along the Pacific Ocean and the northern mountainous region. The heat isn’t so bad between December and April. The coast which faces the Pacific Ocean has its dry season which runs from December to April, while the rainy season is between May and November; average temperatures for this area of the country are 80°F. The coast of the Caribbean Sea is more rainy, here the rainy season is 9 months, while the dry season is between March and May, the annual average temperature is 79°F, in September-October there may be hurricanes. The mountainous northern region has a cooler climate, with average annual temperatures of 65°F; the rain is concentrated in the months between May and October. The best period for visiting Nicaragua is the dry season from December to April.
Oct
Nov
Dec
Managua
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
86
86
80.6
73.4
64.4
59
59
60.8
64.4
71.6
78.8
82.4
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
84.2
86
89.6
87.8
87.8
82.4
80.6
84.2
28
29
29
86
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
53.6
51.8
50
44.6
41
39.2
35.6
39.2
41
44.6
48.2
51.8
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
68
70
70
73
75
74
74
74
73
73
71
70
Buenos Aires, Argentina
PERU
Colombia can be visited year-round, with very little variance in temperature during the year. Bogotá is generally pleasant and spring-like throughout the year. Cartagena’s climate has been described by the World Health Organization as being one of the best in the world. The air is very warm, but relieved by cooling sea breezes, and the town is blessed with many clear blue sunny days.
Andean Region: The green season lasts from November to March, though January and February are the wettest months. The rain is not constant or regular, but there can be heavy downpours. In the dry season, between April and September, days can be sunny and warm, while spring and autumn can be quite mixed, with plenty of sunny days, but a chance of rain. Nights are cold year round, due to the altitudes.
Bogotá
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Cusco
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
68
68
68
66.2
66.2
64.4
64.4
64.4
66.2
66.2
66.2
66.2
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
66.2
66.2
66.2
68
68
68
68
68
69.8
69.8
69.8
68
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
42.8
44.6
46.4
48.2
48.2
48.2
46.4
46.4
46.4
46.4
46.4
44.6
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
46.4
46.4
44.6
42.8
37.4
33.8
33.8
35.6
41
42.8
44.6
44.6
Cartagena
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
86
86
86
87.8
87.8
89.6
89.6
87.8
87.8
87.8
87.8
86
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
77
77
77
78.8
78.8
80.6
80.6
78.8
78.8
78.8
78.8
77
From
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
San José, Costa Rica
*overland transfers/flight David, Panama
45 mins
Bocas del Toro, Panama
1 hr
Bogotá, Colombia
1 hr 25 mins
3 hrs 35 mins
San José, Costa Rica
1 hr 05 mins
Iguazú Falls, Argentina
1 hr 45 mins
Antigua, Guatemala*
1 hr
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil*
2 hrs 55 mins
Lake Atitilan, Guatemala*
3 hrs 45 mins
Santiago, Chile*
2 hrs 15 mins
Flores, Guatemala
1 hr 10 mins
Belize City, Belize
1 hr 40 mins
*from Ezezia International Airport
Santiago, Chile
COLOMBIA
Calama, Chile
2 hrs 05 mins
Puerto Montt, Chile
1 hr 40 mins
Punta Arenas, Chile
3 hrs 25 mins
Easter Island, Chile
5 hrs 30 mins
Mendoza, Argentina
55 mins
Panama City, Panama
Guatemala City, Guatemala
*overland transfers Bogotá, Colombia
Medellín
50 mins
Cartagena
1 hr 25 mins
Please Note: Above Flying Times are for direct flights unless otherwise noted.
Dec
Carnival
Lima & the Coast: The coast has a dry climate all year round. Cool winds from the coast produce an almost ever present mist, called Garua. Temperatures remain warm throughout the year, although the low cloud can often give the feeling of light drizzle. Lima
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
78.8
80.6
80.6
77
71.6
68
66.2
66.2
68
69.8
71.6
Dec 77
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
68
69.8
68
66.2
62.6
60.8
60.8
59
59
60.8
62.6
66.2
San José
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
VENEZUELA
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
75.2
75.2
78.8
80.6
80.6
80.6
78.8
78.8
80.6
78.8
77
75.2
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
57.2
57.2
59
60.8
60.8
60.8
60.8
60.8
59
59
59
59
Venezuela has a dry season (November to May) and a rainy season (June to October). The dry season is more pleasant for traveling as the temperatures are cooler, however some sites, such as waterfalls are actually more impressive in the wet season.
Ecuador
1 hr 15 mins
Approx. Time
May
Feb
Sep
The central Sierra, which forms the spine of the country, is at high altitude, but temperatures are always mild due to the equatorial location. The green season runs from February to April, but the rain falls in sporadic showers and there is the chance of sunshine and rain throughout the year.
Cusco, Peru
To
Apr
Jan
Aug
San José and the central highlands are generally warm with cool nights, due to the altitude. The Pacific coast is also warm and much drier than the Caribbean coast. The rainy season runs from May to October.
Approx. Time
Mar
Mexico City
Jul
Costa Rica
To
Bolivar State
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Ave. Max. Temp (°F)
77
78.8
80.6
82.4
50.31
78.8
77
78.8
80.6
8V0.6
78.8
Dec 77
Ave. Min. Temp (°F)
60.8
60.8
62.6
62.6
62.6
62.6
62.6
62.6
62.6
62.6
62.6
60.8
Please note the codes on the weather charts indicate the following: • Ave. Max. Temp (°F) = Average maximum temperature in Fahrenheit • Ave. Min. Temp (°F) = Average minimum temperature in Fahrenheit
90
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Travel Insurance WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK Custom Allianz Global Travel Insurance for Cox & Kings travelers is all about peace of mind. When you purchase coverage, you can stop worrying about what would happen if you had to cancel your trip, if you got sick or hurt while abroad, or if your baggage was lost on your way to the far-flung, exotic destination you’ve been dreaming about exploring for years. WHY BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE? Many of our travelers have said that they don’t need travel insurance because they’re going on the trip, no matter what. But life has a way of upsetting even the best-laid plans — and we think it’s always better to be prepared. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Our unique coverage is available at both Classic and Deluxe levels, but our coverage starts the day after you purchase a policy and doesn’t stop until you get home from your trip. If you get sick or have an accident while traveling, Allianz Global Assistance will get you to the best available facility that provides high standards of Western health care. And throughout your trip, you get 24/7/365 assistance from U.S.-based associates who speak more than 40 foreign languages and include ER nurses and physicians. Here’s how the benefits of coverage break down: • Trip Cost Protection: We’ve got you covered for trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delays and missed connections. • Medical Protection: We’ll take care of you in a medical emergency abroad. Relax and leave the details to us, including organizing logistics for medical and dental coverage, as well as medical transportation if needed. • Baggage Protection: Accidents happen, even on the best airlines. Travel insurance provides benefits for lost, damaged and stolen luggage — and can reimburse the purchase of essential items when baggage is delayed. Allianz Global Travel Insurance for Cox & Kings is also available with some special benefits if you purchase your policy at the time you make your final payment for your journey: • Free coverage for kids (17 and under) when traveling with their parents or grandparents (Classic only) • Existing medical conditions protection (Classic and Deluxe) • Coverage for trip interruption/cancellation due to work (Classic only) • Protection that lets you cancel anytime (Classic only) So don’t let an unfortunate accident ruin your trip of a lifetime. Contact Cox & Kings to insure your trip — and pick up a little peace of mind.
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Terms & Conditions Booking Procedures Please read the conditions of travel as your booking is subject to the terms listed below. A contract is entered into once your travel agent or Cox & Kings (East India Travel Company, Inc.) receives your deposit and we accept and confirm the booking. Please note that travel arrangements are not confirmed until stated so in writing by Cox & Kings. Payment of any monies constitutes acceptance and understanding of Cox & Kings’ Terms & Conditions as laid out below, as listed on our website and in our pre travel documentation. Payment For most trips, a per person deposit of 25% of the program price is required to secure the arrangements, and will be your only obligation until 90 days prior to your departure date. For trips with other deposit and cancellation requirements, your travel specialist will inform you at time of booking. The balance of the cost must be paid 91 days before you travel. Payment should be made to Cox & Kings in Los Angeles, California. If the final balance is not received on time, Cox & Kings reserves the right to treat the booking as cancelled by you and to levy cancellation charges. If you book your travel 90 days or prior to departure, the full amount of your trip must be paid in order to confirm the booking. Alterations by You If you request any amendments to your travel arrangements once your booking has been confirmed, an amendment fee of $150 per alteration will be charged. If you request any changes in services or accommodation, once commencement of travel, Cox & Kings will do all possible to accommodate your request, however, any costs incurred due to such amendments, you will be liable for any cancellation/retention charges that may be levied for the previously booked service and for any costs incurred to secure revised arrangements. Cancellation by You Should you wish to cancel your travel arrangements, you must notify Cox & Kings in writing. Please note that deposits are-refundable minus a per person administrative fee of $400 if the cancellation is received more than 91 days prior to departure. Please state the reason for cancellation as you may be covered by your insurance policy. For notification received within 90 days of departure, the following cancellation charges are applicable: Days before Departure Cancellation Charge 91 days or longer $400 per person administrative fee (some exceptions apply, you will be notified at time of booking) 90 to 61 20% of total land program price 60 to 31 50% of total land program price 30 to Day of Departure 100% of total land program price Cancellations received Fridays for tour departures that same weekend (Saturday, Sunday and Monday) will be treated as a day of departure cancellation. We cannot give any allowance or refund for meals, rooms, excursions, etc. that have not been consumed or utilized, when these services have been included in the price of the program. No refund can be made on lost, mislaid or destroyed travel tickets. Certain programs and holiday departure dates may have higher penalties for cancellation, your travel specialist will advise at time of booking. Any air tickets issued at any time are subject to the terms of the airline. To protect your investment, we strongly
recommend that you purchase full coverage travel insurance (see page 90 for more details). Alterations Made to the Scheduled Program Travel arrangements are planned and secured in advance and so changes in itinerary content may be unavoidable. These changes may be due to circumstances amounting to “force majeure” or reasons beyond Cox & Kings’ control. They could include but not limited to; delay in departure due to flight disruption, closure of a hotel, strikes, riots, natural occurrences, decisions by State Governments or Tourist Organizations that cause forced alterations to a planned itinerary, its duration, time spent in a city or requiring the need to remove a city or part of from the itinerary caused by a local occurrence or situation. In such cases, Cox & Kings will offer comparable alternative arrangements. If any of the circumstances listed above occur during the course of the program, we reserve the right to alter the scheduled itinerary accordingly and compensation cannot be paid. We will make every reasonable effort to provide the booked arrangements but minor changes may occur. If changes are significant we shall where possible, inform you or your travel agent before your departure. Please note that Cox & Kings cannot be held responsible for any price increases or surcharges caused by governmental action, additional taxes imposed, fluctuations in exchange rates, increases in scheduled airfare or increases in fuel surcharges should Cox & Kings need to pass along these increases. Any increase in the original program price will be notified to you at least 91 days before departure. If you make your booking within 90 days of departure, the surcharge will be included in your invoice. Any surcharge will not exceed 10 percent of the listed program price. For scheduled group departures, it may be necessary to re-cost your program due to a low number of participants. You will be contacted 90 days prior to your departure date and advised should a supplementary fee apply. If all group members accept the increased cost the tour will operate as scheduled. However, if the supplement is not accepted by you then you will be entitled to a full refund of all monies paid or to transfer your deposit to a different program. Documentation Required For Travel: Passports, Visas and Your Responsibilities All travelers require a passport with at least six months validity beyond completion of travel. The client accepts full responsibility for obtaining all travel documentation, including but not limited to passport, entry visa and permits prior to commencement of travel, and is solely responsible for any consequences resulting from missing or defective documentation. Any information or advice given by Cox & Kings regarding visas, vaccinations, climate, what to pack, baggage, etc., is purely advisory and provided as a courtesy. Cox & Kings is not responsible for any errors or omissions as to the information provided by third parties. Visas may be required to travel to your chosen destination and U.S. citizens should consult with the appropriate Consulates and Embassies. It is the responsibility of the individual traveler to secure the proper documentation prior to commencement of travel. Travel Warnings It is the responsibility of The Traveler to become informed about the most current travel advisories and warnings by referring to the U.S. State
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Department’s travel website at www.travel.state.gov or by phone at 1-888-407-4747. In the event of an active State Department Travel Warning against travel to the specific destination location/s of the trip, should The Traveler still choose to travel, notwithstanding any travel advisory or warning, The Traveler assumes all risk of personal injury, death or property damage that may arise out of the events like those advised or warned against. • • • • • • • • • •
What Your Land Program Price Includes: Private arrival and departure airport transfers to and from your hotel All planning, handling and operational charges Accommodation as noted in itinerary, based on double occupancy Double Occupancy in standard room accommodation Privately guided sightseeing Services of Professional English-Speaking Guides and/or Tour Escort as detailed in your itinerary All entrance fees Meals as mentioned in itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D=Dinner) Baggage handling, 2 pieces per person unless otherwise noted. (Additional luggage will require modification in vehicle size) Other inclusions as noted in your itinerary
What Your Land Program Price Excludes: • International and internal region airfare, unless otherwise stated • Meals other than those mentioned in itinerary • The cost of personal items such as laundry, drinks with meals or otherwise, additional incidentals, etc. • Airport Security Charges if levied by any airport to cover the cost of security arrangements and payable locally • Airport Departure Taxes • Optional and additional sightseeing not included in itinerary • Cost of obtaining passports or required visas where necessary • Any fees associated with using air miles for your air travel • Transport between your home and home airport/port/station • Gratuities unless stated in “What Your Land Price Includes” • Travel Protection Insurance (strongly recommended, please see separate detailed insurance form) • Other inclusions if not noted under “Includes” Cox & Kings’ Limits of Responsibilities Except where otherwise stated in these Terms & Conditions, neither Cox & Kings nor any of our Third Party Suppliers can accept liability or pay compensation if our services are affected due to reasons beyond our control, such as but not limited to force majeure, and as a result you suffer any damage, loss or injury. In these terms and conditions force majeure means any event which we / the supplier of the service(s) or the third party supplier could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include but not be limited to; actual or threatened war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, epidemics, fire, and all similar events outside the control of the party concerned. Cox & Kings makes arrangements with airlines, hotels and other independent parties to provide the travel services you purchase. We do not own or operate any of the accommodation, transport or other facilities used in connection with our programs. We therefore cannot accept liability for negligence of the staff of these organizations. These parties are independent suppliers over whom we have no direct control. Cox & Kings is not liable
94
in the event of any failure by any person or company to render any transportation, accommodation or other travel service to be provided on the journeys, or for expenses incurred due to delays caused by weather, strikes, war, civil disturbances, natural disasters, flight delays, government actions, mechanical failures or any acts of God. Cox & Kings cannot assume any responsibility for flight delays, cancellations or missed connections and is not liable for any expenses or consequences resulting therefrom, and such expenses are to be borne by the traveler. When you travel with an airline the Conditions of Carriage of that airline will apply. These conditions are the subject of International Agreements and may limit or exclude liability. Your travel agent or airline can advise you of these conditions. The participant waives any claim against Cox & Kings for any damage to, or loss of, property, or injury to, or death of, due to any act, or negligence of any airlines, surface transportation companies, hotels or any person rendering any of the services or accommodations included. Cox & Kings cannot be held responsible for any claim, losses, damages for delay of baggage or other properties, inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, upset and disappointment, distress or frustrations, whether physical or mental, resulting from the act or omission of any party providing services. We do take all reasonable steps to insure that organizations providing services maintain standards, which are acceptable within the norm in each locality. The participant assumes and understands that all travel has inherent risk that may result in injury or death and that participation in activities, including but not limited to, driving, hiking, walking, touring, visiting archeological sites, walking on uneven surfaces, riding on rough roads, rafting, boating, canoeing riding in helicopters, on trains, boats, swimming, surfing, horseback or camel riding, and any other activities. The information contained in this brochure and online has been compiled with all reasonable care, is accurate to the best of our knowledge and is given in good faith. All services are subject to the laws of the countries in which these services are rendered. Venue for all claims or disputes shall be exclusively in Los Angeles County, California, U.S.A., whose courts, using California Law, shall have exclusive jurisdiction. Damage claims against Cox & Kings shall be limited to the value of the particular item in dispute and not for any incidental, consequential, or special damages. Cox & Kings assumes responsibility for representations it makes, but not for those made by others and including, but not limited to, any employee of Cox & Kings or independent travel agent. Payment for reservations on any Cox & Kings travel arrangements shall constitute consent to all the provisions in the Booking Terms & Conditions published herein and is binding on all travel participants. United States Tour Operators Association $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program Cox & Kings, The Americas, as an Active Member of USTOA, is required to post $1 Million with USTOA to be used to reimburse, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program, the advance payments of Cox & Kings, The Americas’ customers in the unlikely event of Cox & Kings, The Americas bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business. Further, you should understand that the $1 Million posted by Cox & Kings, The Americas may be sufficient to provide only a partial recovery of the advance payments received by Cox & Kings, The Americas. More details of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program may be obtained by writing to USTOA at 345 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1801, New York, New York 10001, or by email to information@ustoa.com or by visiting their website at www.USTOA.com.
COX & KINGS, THE AMERICAS Cox & Kings Building, 8060 Melrose Avenue, 3rd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90046 USA Tel: 1.323.655.1758 • Fax: 1.323.655.1774 • Email: journeys@coxandkingsusa.com • Toll Free: 1.800.999.1758 • coxandkingsusa.com
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COX & KINGS, THE AMERICAS Cox & Kings Building, 8060 Melrose Avenue, 3rd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90046 USA Tel: 1.323.655.1758 • Fax: 1.323.655.1774 • Email: journeys@coxandkingsusa.com Toll Free: 1.800.999.1758 • coxandkingsusa.com • CST - 2105853-50