South American Itinerary
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Day 1
Bristol to Lima via Amsterdam
Depart Bristol Airport on the KLM Royal Dutch flight KL1000 to Amsterdam. The flight departs at 06:35 and arrives at 08:55. From there connect with the KLM Royal Dutch flight KL743 to Lima. The flight departs at 10:20 and arrives at 16:25. .Business Class Seats
Lima Arrival Transfer On arrival in Lima, once you have cleared any formalities, you will be met by one of our representatives and taken to the Country Club Hotel for a two-night stay.
http://www.hotelcountry.com/
Lima
After its founding by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima (originally named 'La Ciudad de los Reyes') soon became the commercial and administrative centre of the Spanish empire in South America, bringing a period of prosperity to the city until an earthquake in 1746 destroyed all but 20 houses. Following this devastation the opportunity was taken to elaborately rebuild the city. Today's wide streets, huge plazas and old houses with ornately carved balconies are a legacy of this period.
Country Club Hotel DeLuxe
Two Nights - Double Occupancy - Master Suite
The Country Club Hotel is located in the residential district of San Isidro. This is a hotel of true distinction and class with a refurbished splendour dating to the 1920s. Excellent service and rooms furnished to impeccable standards are the hallmark of this luxurious hotel.
http://www.hotelcountry.com/
Day 2
Private Tour in Lima
A PRIVATE GUIDE in Lima will provide an insight into the life, customs and history of Peru,
the Inca Civilisation and The Spanish Conquest, in a way that our clients may otherwise miss. Our aim is to provide an in-depth perspective to enhance your visit and share an understanding of local life, people and culture. Our guide has the knowledge to take you to the main tourist attractions but, in addition, show you what the "locals" do, where they go, how they live, what they like. We will also provide information on activities, entertainment, restaurants, local cuisine, music, excursions and sightseeing.
Excursion - City Tour & Archaeological Museum - Half Day
Half day tour of the city visiting both colonial and modern districts. Following an earthquake in 1746, the city was elaborately rebuilt and today's wide streets, vast plazas and old houses with ornately carved balconies are a legacy of this period.
Visit the Archaeological Museum in the suburb of Pueblo Libre. The National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History (Museo Nacional de Arqueologia, Antropologia e Historia del Peru) exhibits evidence of all ancient cultures in the Peruvian civilization in a chronological and didactic way, the most interesting being the collections of Chavin, Paracas, Nazca, Mochica, Huari, Chimu and Inca. Masterpieces include the Raimondi Estele and the Tello Obelisco. Paintings, objects, documents and relics of the colony, emancipation, independence process and Republican period are exhibited in the adjoining manor house, which was the residence of the viceroys Pezuela and La Serna and of Peru's liberators Jose de San Martin and Simon Bolivar. Private Service
In the Afternoon you will have time at leisure where Golf can be arranged at the private Golf grounds of the Hotel Country Club.
Day 3
Departure Transfer
Our Guide and transport will meet you and assist you for the transfer.
Private Service
Flight: Lima to Cusco
Depart Jorge Chavez Airport on the Lan Peru flight LP073 to Cusco. The flight departs at 09:05 and arrives at 10:20.
Cusco - Arrival Transfer
On arrival in Cusco, once you have cleared any formalities, you will be met by one of our representatives and taken to the Monasterio Hotel for a two-night stay.
Private Service
Cusco - Introduction
Until the arrival of the Spaniards in 1532, Cusco was the centre of the Inca Empire and is the oldest continuously inhabited city on the continent and whose legacy as the hub of the empire is readily apparent. Many of the city streets are lined with Inca-built stone walls and crowded with the Quechua-speaking descendants of the Incas. Throughout the city, one can appreciate the syncretism of Inca and Catholic symbols, constructions and beliefs.
Monasterio - Orient Express Hotel DeLuxe
Two Nights
Built 300 years ago atop Inca foundations, this building was originally the Seminary of San Antonio Abad. In 1995, the seminary was tastefully converted into a hotel while still preserving its original architecture of arched galleries surrounding two elegant colonial style courtyards. It has now become Cuzco's premier hotel, providing its guests with a museum setting of Inca and Spanish traditions. The hotel is conveniently situated very close to the city's central square, the Plaza de Armas, where the Cathedral and museums are located. All of the 124 rooms have en-suite bathrooms, telephone, mini-bar and cable TV and many of them are oxygen-enriched. The hotel also has a bar, restaurant and café.
Double Occupancy - Superior Room
http://www.monasterio.orient-express.com/web/ocus/ocus_a2a_home.jsp
Private Tour in Cusco
YOUR PRIVATE GUIDE in Cusco will provides an insight into the life, customs and history of Peru, and the Inca heritage and the Spanish conquest in a way that our clients may otherwise miss. Your guide will provide you with a detailed perspective of this attractive city to enhance your visit and share an understanding of local life, people and culture. You can explore sites in the city and the 'Sacred Valley of the Incas' to learn more about the area's rich history, from pre-Inca culture to the famous sun-worshipping civilisation itself and colonisation by the Spanish. Besides its obvious legacy Cusco has a range of activities, entertainment, restaurants, music and excursions to offer its visitors, and our guide will be only too happy to help you make the most of these. Private Service
Excursion - City Tour & Ruins Of Cusco - Half Day
Departure from your hotel for a visit to the Cathedral in the main square of Cusco and the Quoricancha, the Spanish church built on Inca stone foundations. The Cathedral, believed to be built on the foundations of the Palace of Viracocha, stands proudly in the main square and houses an interesting picture of the last supper where Jesus and his disciples are about to tuck into guinea pig, a Peruvian delicacy.
We drive to the mountains above Cusco to visit the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman and Kenko. The largest complex and most famous of the ruins surrounding Cusco is Sacsayhuaman, a mighty fortress, built using massive stones some of which weigh over 100 tons, and somehow fitted together so neatly that even now, after so many years and earthquakes, one can still not slip a knife blade between the pieces of this huge jigsaw puzzle.
On the return we stop at a vantage point above Cusco for a superb view of the city and the surrounding mountains, before returning to your hotel. This tour is an excellent introduction to the main highlights of Cusco.
Private Service
Day 4
Excursion - Sacred Valley Of The Incas Tour - Full Day
Sacred Valley of the Incas
An early start for a full day tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop is at Chinchero to visit the local colourful and authentic market where indigenous people from the surrounding communities congregate to trade their goods, not only trading in money, but in goods as well. The Chinchero Market is also well-known for its woven handcrafts typical of the region.
From here we drive to the Moray ruins, used by the Incas as a type of open-air crop laboratory. Our next stop is Maras pre-Inca salt mines located on a wide-open hill above the Urubamba Valley from where we walk for approximately 1 hour down to the Urubamba River and stop to admire the beautiful views of the valley.
We cross a small bridge and arrive at a beautiful Spanish Hacienda, overlooking the Urubamba River, where we have lunch. (Lunch included) After lunch we visit the huge fortress of Ollantaytambo, the archaeological complex believed to have been a gigantic agricultural, administrative, social, religious and military centre. The town itself is geometrically perfect; with straight streets, trapezoidal doors, and Inca drainage systems.
We continue on to Pisac a small colonial village built by Viceroy Francisco de Toledo on the ruins of an Inca citadel, standing at the entrance to the immensely fertile Urubamba River valley which was called the "Sacred Valley of the Incas" for the agricultural produce and wealth it brought as the base of the Inca Empire. There is a tourist market with numerous shops full of handicrafts and weaving and also a food market for local people, particularly on Sunday when some women and children dress in their traditional costumes. We drive up the mountain above the town to visit the Pisac ruins, affording superb views of the surrounding countryside, before returning to Cusco.
Private Service
Day 5
Transfer
Our Guide and transport will meet you and assist you for the transfer. Private Service
Machu Picchu & Aguas Calientes
Machu Picchu - Inkaterra Machu Picchu Hotel
Two Days/One Night
An early morning start for the train to Machu Picchu. The railway line out of Cusco climbs over the hills, slowly scaling higher and higher, granting us a fascinating view over the city from above, the red tiles of the colonial houses stretching into the distance. It then travels over the mountains to reach the "Sacred Valley of the Incas", following the Urubamba River to the ruins of Ollantaytambo, from where the railway line is the only way to reach Aguas Calientes, the tropical foot of Machu Picchu. From here we take a bus for half an hour and follow a winding road up the mountain before we finally glimpse the magical site of Machu Picchu, so perfectly hidden it is not surprising that it took so long to discover.
On arrival have a morning guided tour of this fabulous archaeological site, followed by lunch at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, and the afternoon free to explore and admire at leisure.
http://machupicchu.orient-express.com/web/omac/omac_a2a_home.jsp
Overnight at The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Hotel, (breakfast & dinner included). The hotel is conveniently located next to the train station in the village of Aguas Calientes. The hotel is shielded from noise and the cabanas, spread through the grounds and linked by winding paths, have large rooms and en-suite bathrooms. Both the restaurant and bar are well decorated and spacious and when combined with the lush vegetation of the grounds create an air of tranquillity and relaxation unknown in other hotels.
Day 6
Morning free to explore. You may wish to take the bus to the archaeological site of Machu Picchu, the buses start at 06.00 when the site opens.
It is possible to climb Huayna Picchu, a steep climb but well worth it for the fantastic views of the valley and a different perspective of Machu Picchu. Alternatively, there is a gentle climb, back along the Inca Trail, to Intipunku the Gate of the Sun, and the first sight one has of the complex if walking the Inca Trail.
In the afternoon, take the bus back down into the valley and the train back to Cusco.
NOTE: Please just pack an overnight bag for the stay at Machu Picchu and leave your main luggage in Cuzco.
Private & Shared Transport - Private Guide
Transfer from the Train Station to your Hotel. Private Service
Monasterio - Orient Express Hotel DeLuxe
One Night
http://www.monasterio.orient-express.com/web/ocus/ocus_a2a_home.jsp
Double Occupancy - Superior Room
Day 7
Departure Transfer
You will be collected from the Monasterio Hotel in time for the journey to Cuzco Velasco Astete Airport for your Flight to Lima. Private Service
Flight: Cusco to Quito via Lima Depart Cuzco Velasco Astete Airport on the TACA flight TA008 to Lima. The flight departs at 07:55 and arrives at 09:20. From there connect with the TACA flight TA029 to Quito. The flight departs at 10:44 and arrives at 12:54. Economy Class.
Quito Arrival Transfer
Assistance and transfer between airport and hotel in Quito.
Private Service with English Speaking Guide
Quito – Introduction
Quito is located on a plateau at the foot of the Pichincha volcano. Colonial architects built formidable churches, monasteries and mansions which you can now admire in a city designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Visit St. Augustine Convent and the Parliament Buildings, whose stone mural depicts the history of Ecuador. The main square is flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, Municipal Building and the Archbishops Palace; and the church of San Francisco is one of the great religious buildings of the New World, Baroque architecture influenced by Moorish style.
Plaza Grande
Two Nights
The Hotel Plaza Grande rises above the central square, known as the Plaza de la Independencia. It was the first hotel ever constructed in the capital, and has been extensively renovated and remodeled. It is now the finest boutique hotel in the city, and is the ideal place from which to explore the wonders of this timeless city. It is situated only 20 minutes from Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport, in the heart of the historic district of the city. The hotel is surrounded by characteristic buildings: the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Carondelet Palace (Government Palace), the Archbishop's Palace and the modern City Hall.
The hotel offers 15 suites including Royal, Plaza View and Presidential. All suites are fully air-conditioned and elegantly appointed. Our suites provide VIP treatment, premium amenities and valet service on request. You can enjoy as well the Cafeteria Plaza Grande, the restaurant La Belle Epoque which boasts the most stunning views in Quito's old town, or enjoy the Cava El Claustro to taste a fine wine and great cooking accompanied by live music.
http://www.plazagrandequito.com/
Double Occupancy - Royal Suite
YOUR PRIVATE GUIDE in Quito will provide an insight into the life, customs and history of Ecuador, in a way that our clients may otherwise miss. Our aim is to provide an in-depth perspective to enhance your visit and share an understanding of local life, people and culture. Our guide has the knowledge to take you to the main tourist attractions but, in addition, show you what the "locals" do, where they go, how they live, what they like. We will also provide information on activities, entertainment, restaurants, local cuisine, music, excursions and sightseeing.
Service - Guide Leader
Excursion - Colonial Tour Of Quito
First stop is at the Parliament Building, whose stone mural records Ecuador's history. Then a stroll downtown and visit the colonial temples and monasteries of this urban jewel, designated by UNESCOas a World Heritage Site. We start at the Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the Archbishop's Palace. Visit the Church of La Compania de Jesus and continue to the Church of San Francisco, one the of great religious buildings of the New World. Its impressive facade and atrium lead to its gilt interior of Baroque influenced Moorish style, with the winged Virgin of Quito at its main altar. The tour ends at a lookout point with a great view of Quito.
Private Service
Day 8
Excursion - Cotopaxi National Park & Lunch San Augustin De Callo
A full day excursion south of Quito to the Cotopaxi National Park, an ecological sanctuary of 36,000 hectares surrounding the highest active volcano in the world. It is an ideal area to visit for nature lovers where you may see llamas, wild horses, deer, rabbits and frogs. There are various species of birdlife, including the majestic Andean Condor. You stop for lunch at Hacienda San Agustin del Callo & return to Quito in the late afternoon.
Private Service
Day 9
Departure Transfer Assistance and transfer between hotel and Quito airport.
Private Service
Flight: Quito to Baltra
Depart Quito Airport on the TAME flight to San Cristobal.
Economy Class
Galapagos Islands Cruise: Evolution Cruise M/ V - Luxury - 7 Nights
Eight Days/Seven Nights
M/S Evolution is a 192 ft / 58.5 m. L.O.A. Cruise Ship that accommodates up to 32 passengers in 16 cabins, single or twin. Outfitted for individual passengers, family departures and departures for the more active groups, she offers a mix of beautifully furnished salons, open decks and private areas for those looking for a close experience with the surrounding environment.
This vessel preserves the smaller boat atmosphere and attention to detail we pride ourselves in having on all our boats, with features such as an al-fresco dining area for all 32 passengers, a library/video room. Additionally, the yacht has such amenities as a small jacuzzi & bar, sunning deck, outside social/observation under a canopied roof deck & bar, air renewal system, boutique and infirmary with a doctor on board at all times.
Your Naturalist Guide will always be with you, escorting you on land visits, lecturing each evening and accompanying you on snorkelling excursions and panga rides. With the exception of the town of Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island) the itinerary will typically include visits to at least 8 uninhabited islands of the Galapagos National Park system, each with a different and diverse flora and fauna. Your 7 nights naturalist itinerary generally provides for two land visits a day (each land visit is typically 2-3 hours long) plus swimming and snorkelling opportunities. Each evening your Naturalist Guide give a briefing on all aspects of the Galapagos and the next days activity schedule. Each day will offer the opportunity to observe up close the animals and birds which inhabit these islands. The accommodation includes all meals (Full Board), all transport and daily guided excursions but drinks and the Galapagos Entrance Park Fee of US$100.00 per person are extra.
Itinerary
A.M. Arrival at San Cristobal Galapagos
The flight from Quito (via Guayaquil) to the Galapagos is approximately 2 ½ hours on a Boeing 727. Upon arrival at San Cristobal airport travelers pass through an airport inspection point to insure that no foreign plants or animals are introduced to the islands and to pay the park entrance fee of $100 (unless prepaid). Guides will meet you, collect your luggage and escort you on the short bus ride to the harbor. Motorized rafts, called 'Pangas' will transport you to the M/V Evolution and our crew will welcome you onboard. After a briefing and a light lunch the first site visit will start.
P.M. San Cristobal : Interpretation Center & Cerro Brujo
San Cristóbal is the easternmost island in Galapagos; on its southwestern side is the own town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of the providence of Galapagos. On Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is the Interpretation Center newly opened by the Galapagos National park in 1998, which is truly an extraordinary contribution to the information and education of the islands communities and the travelers; its 80% is focus in the anthropology of the Galapagos, the 20% is scientific.
Cerro Brujo beach: One of the most pristine and beautiful beach in Galapagos, wet landing in a white sandy beach, swimming & snorkeling with sea lions, sea turtles, rays, among others.
Double Occupancy
Galapagos Islands - Introduction
This unique archipelago of 19 islands located off the coast of Ecuador has inspired botanists and nature-lovers alike. Charles Darwin visited in 1835 and declared "remarkable; it seems to be a little world within itself." The islands are made up of the tops of volcanoes and flourishing with endemic species of plant, fish and reptile. The park is dedicated to the preservation of this evolutional mystery and visits are carefully co-ordinated.
Day 16
San Cristobal Flight: San Cristobal to Guayaquil
Depart San Cristobal on the TAME flight to Guayaquil.
Economy Class Seat (2)
Guayaquil Arrival Transfer
On arrival in Guayaquil, once you have cleared any formalities, you will be met by one of our representatives and taken to the Hilton Colon Guayaquil Hotel for an overnight stay.
Private Service With English Speaking Guide
Hilton Colon Guayaquil Hotel
DeLuxe
One Night
The Hilton Colon is situated within the new and booming commercial sector of Guayaquil and offers a panoramic view of the city as well as easy access to the city centre financial area. Each of the 294 rooms is equipped with minibar, TV, telephone, safe, radio, air conditioning, coffee maker, hairdryer and internet access. The hotel features three restaurants, two bars, one sushi bar, a health club and meeting facilities.
Double Occupancy - Standard Deluxe Room
http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/GYEHIHF-Hilton-Colon-Guayaquil-hotel/index.do
Departure Transfer You will be collected from the Hilton Colon Guayaquil Hotel in time for the journey to Guayaquil for your Flight to Bonaire.
Private Service With English Speaking Guide
Flight: Guayaquil to Bonaire
Depart Guayaquil on the KLM Royal Dutch flight KL754 to Bonaire. The flight departs at 07:10 and arrives at 12:50. Business Class Seat (2)
Bonaire
Harbour Village Beach Club Resort
Four Nights
Bonaire is fringed by beaches and surrounded by an underwater wealth of reefs and marine life that have made it one the world's top-rated scuba diving destinations. Bonaire is staunchly committed to the protection of its natural resources.
Harbour Village Beach Club is an intimate and exclusive beachfront and private residential resort club community, nestled amongst lushly landscaped, a white sand private beach and 64-slip marina. This beatiful resort is now part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, an unrivaled collection of over 400 independent hotels. Rooms and Suites in the resort have terraced balconies or lanais overlooking and with access to the beach. Spa services are offered a-la-carte and upon request by certified specialists in the comfort of our spa and treatment room. Breakfast is not included, although transfers to and from the airport are.
http://www.harbourvillage.com/
Ocean view Suite
Day 23
Flight: Bonaire to Bristol via Amsterdam
Depart Bonaire on the KLM Royal Dutch flight KL754 to Amsterdam. The flight departs at 13:55 and arrives at 05:00 the following day. From there connect with the KLM Royal Dutch flight KL1001 to Bristol. The flight departs at 07:15 and arrives at 07:40. Business Class Seat (2)
