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South American Highlights

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    South American Highlights

    From: AUD $8,424.00

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      Product Description

      Highlights

      Whether you trek the classic Inca Trail, the Inca Quarry Trail or take the scenic train route, the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu are a majestic destination, no matter how you get there. The floating islands of Uros on Lake Titicaca are a marvel of concept, construction and history. Take a boat tour on the lake and spend the night with a local family in a traditional island community. The landscapes of Salar de Uyuni are so unique they’re almost extra-terrestrial. Embark on a three-day adventure via 4WD across the rocky Atacama Desert and the largest salt lakes in the world – passing cactus islands, train cemeteries and mineral lakes teeming with flamingos. Harness your inner gaucho during a three-day stay at a working estancia in Uruguay. Whether it’s getting involved in daily chores around the farm, working with livestock or simply relaxing on the ranch, experience a unique way of life and Uruguayan hospitality at its best

      Overview

      There’s times when it’s appropriate to dip a toe in, and there’s times when it’s best to simply dive in headfirst. That’s exactly what you’re going to be doing on this trip from Lima to Rio, albeit with plenty of time for exploring and taking things at your own pace. This trip takes in the very best of the centre of South America – from trekking the Inca Trail to Macchu Pichu to partying in Rio de Janiero. Visit the Iguaza Falls and stroll the streets of Buenos Aires. Snap pictures at the incredible Uyuni Salt Flats, look out over the Nazca Lines and explore the stunning history of this incredible part of the world at a pace that allows you to do as much as you want. Experience the best of South America’s centre on this Intrepid Adventure.



      Breakfast Included: 38

      Lunches Included: 10

      Dinner Included: 10

      South American Highlights 1 South American Highlights 2South American Highlights 3South American Highlights 4

       

       

      Trip Dates

      Start Date End Date Price Room Type Status
      11-FEB-2023 26-MAR-2023 From: AUD $10,527.00 N/A DGAvailable
      01-APR-2023 14-MAY-2023 From: AUD $12,385.00 N/A DGAvailable
      22-APR-2023 04-JUN-2023 From: AUD $12,385.00 N/A DGAvailable
      06-MAY-2023 18-JUN-2023 From: AUD $12,880.00 N/A DGAvailable
      17-JUN-2023 30-JUL-2023 From: AUD $12,880.00 N/A DGAvailable
      15-JUL-2023 27-AUG-2023 From: AUD $12,880.00 N/A DGAvailable
      05-AUG-2023 17-SEP-2023 From: AUD $12,880.00 N/A DGAvailable
      16-SEP-2023 29-OCT-2023 From: AUD $12,880.00 N/A DGAvailable
      30-SEP-2023 12-NOV-2023 From: AUD $12,880.00 N/A DGAvailable
      07-OCT-2023 19-NOV-2023 From: AUD $12,385.00 N/A DGAvailable
      21-OCT-2023 03-DEC-2023 From: AUD $12,385.00 N/A DGAvailable
      11-NOV-2023 24-DEC-2023 From: AUD $12,385.00 N/A DGAvailable
      09-DEC-2023 21-JAN-2024 From: AUD $11,685.00 N/A DGAvailable
      23-DEC-2023 04-FEB-2024 From: AUD $11,685.00 N/A DGAvailable



      Lima

      Welcome to Peru's coastal capital. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your tour leader and travel group. There are no other activities planned for today, but why not head out with the group after this important meeting and get to know each other better over dinner. Whether you dine with the group or sample the city's renowned food scene on your own, don't miss sampling Peru's national dish, ceviche (raw rish marinated in lime juice, often served with hot peppers). If you're not a fan of seafood, there are plenty of other excellent options on offer. Ask your tour leader for advice. If you arrive early, perhaps take a walk around the vibrant Miraflores area. Alternatively, stroll along to Parque del Amor (Love Park) for a great view of Lima's beaches.

      Lima

      This morning, set out on a half-day walking tour of Lima's historical centre. Take in the ornate spectacle of the colonial mansions, palaces and churches that line the streets; choose to pay a visit to San Francisco Monastery and its catacombs; and browse the fresh produce on offer at Lima's central market, tasting fresh fruit and street food. Your walking tour wraps up in Lima's main square, with the rest of the day free to do as you wish. Later, perhap head out for dinner with the group. Flanked by streets of ornate mansions, palaces and churches, Plaza Mayor is the best place to start any exploration of Lima. Take a walk through the old streets to get a feel for colonial life. On one side of the plaza is the Cathedral of Lima, which houses the remains of Lima's founder, Francisco Pizarro. Nearby is the San Francisco Monastery, with its catacombs containing some 70,000 human remains (entry is optional and at travellers' expense). The afternoon is free for you to explore the city on your own. In the evening, perhaps try some ceviche for dinner.

      Paracas

      Head off at around 6 am travel by taxi or minivan to Lima's bus station and take a local bus to Paracas (approximately 4 hours). During this journey it's unlikely the bus will make any stops, so please ensure you prepare yourself with water, snacks and anything else necessary. The small fishing town of Paracas is the gateway to the Islas Ballestas and the Paracas National Reserve. You'll have the option of visiting Paracas National Reserve today with a local guide. The duration of the tour is around 2–2.5 hours, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful Maritime landscapes and desert. For some local food specialities back in town, head to the boulevard near the beach and try some tejas, which are small sweets made from nuts and dried fruits.

      Nazca

      Islas Ballestas makes for a great (optional) day trip today. Here there will be lots of opportunities to see wildlife such as penguins, sea lions and flamingos from a speedboat. Later in the morning continue onto Nazca, which takes around three hours (it's likely there won't be any stops). Arrive in the early afternoon. The Nazca Lines are enormous designs inscribed into the desert. Who drew them, how and why is unknown, but most scientists believe the Nazca people created them about 2,000 years ago. Consider an optional scenic flight to see them from the air – this lasts 30 minutes and covers most of the 26 impressions (planes turn sharply from one side to another to facilitate viewing from both sides of the plane, so this is not for those with a weak stomach!)

      Arequipa

      Early afternoon, take a transfer to the bus station. Board a local bus to Arequipa, the bus ride is long (approximately 11 hours, with no stops). Lunch will be served on the bus, and later around dinner time there will be a small snack. Don't forget to pack plenty of water, snacks and perhaps a good book! Arrive into Arequipa around midnight and transfer to the hotel. Standing at the foot of El Misti volcano and exuding Spanish colonial charm, Arequipa vies with Cusco for the title of Peru's most attractive city.

      Arequipa

      This morning your leader will take you on an orientation walk in which you will visit the main square and Mercado San Camilo. The remainder of the day is free day to explore Arequipa. Perhaps start at Monasterio de Santa Catalina for a glimpse into a bygone way of life. The 16th-century convent has a unique history, having once only accepted women from high-class Spanish families. From here, call by the Juanita Museum and take a look at the ‘Ice Maiden’, the Incan mummy of a young girl who died in the 1440s. During your walk around Arequipa, you'll come to understand why it’s referred to as the ‘White City’. Built out of the pale volcanic rock, the old buildings shine brightly in the sunshine. While away the rest of your day in the cafes and restaurants on the main plaza.

      Colca Canyon

      In the morning, at around 8 am, venture out by minivan to Chivay (approximately 5 hours). Stop to take pictures along the way, as you're likely to see llamas, alpacas and vicunas. After around two hours of driving, you'll have the chance to try some coca tea from local tea stalls. After a third stop at Patapampa (the highest place of the trip at 4,800 metres above sea level), descend to Chivay town. Choose to spend your evening soaking in the baths, dining on Alpaca steak or listening to live Andean music at a pena (music hall).

      Arequipa

      Early in the morning take a short drive into the canyon to witness the morning routine of the Andean condor. This is an amazing opportunity to see the world's largest flying bird in predator mode. Depending on weather conditions there will be a short walk around the area (approximately 45 minutes) before you return to Chivay. In the afternoon, travel back to Arequipa (approximately 5 hours). Enjoy a free evening to do as you wish.

      Arequipa/ Overnight bus to Cusco

      Use your last day in Arequipa to get under the skin of the city. For a bit of culture, stroll down to Casa Museo Villalobos for a look at the extensive art collection that’s housed there. If you’re looking for something a bit more hands-on, there are regular cooking classes in the city. For more ideas on what to do, please speak with your trip leader. This evening at about 7.30 pm transfer to the bus station. Soon after, board an overnight bus to Cusco (approximately 11 hours with no stops; please consider that there is only one road out of Arequipa so it's possible there could be delays at the beginning of the journey). The bus has comfortable reclining seats and a toilet on board. Dinner will be served on board, however it's recommended to pack some water and snacks. 

      Cusco

      Your overnight bus should arrive in Cusco between 6.30 and 7.30 am. Head to the hotel in town for breakfast. Your leader will then give you the choice of heading straight out for an orientation walk; alternatively the group may decide to have some time to rest for a few hours, in which case the orientation walk will be done in the afternoon. During the walking tour you’ll visit the facade of Qoricancha temple, the local San Pedro market, the main square, past the 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. The order of visiting these locations, may vary according to hotel location and your tour leader’s preference. In your free time may want to book some of the optional activities available in Cusco. In the evening, attend a briefing on the Inca Trail hike which begins tomorrow.

      Inca Trail, Inca Quarry Trail or Train option

      Depending on your pre-arranged travel arrangements, during the next four days you may: hike the Classic Inca Trail, hike the Inca Quarry Trail or stay in Cusco for another two days before taking the train to Aguas Calientes. While away from Cusco, the bulk of your luggage will be stored at your hotel. If you’re hiking the Inca Trail or the Inca Quarry Trail, the evening before you leave Cusco you'll receive a small duffle bag to carry your clothes in for the next four days (5 kg maximum). Your team of porters will carry these bags for you, together with the food and equipment for the trail. Please note that you won't have access to these items until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. If you’re travelling to Aguas Calientes by train, you'll be able to leave most of your luggage at the hotel in Cusco and only travel with the necessary items for the next few days. Route 1 Classic Inca Trail: Travel by minivan to the 82 km marker and meet your crew of local porters, cook and guide. The first day includes uphill trekking to the campsite, which is at 3100 metres above sea level. On the way you’ll see the ruins of Llactapata, which was burnt to the ground by the last Inca emperor to discourage Spanish pursuit down the trail. In the evening, set up camp while the cook makes dinner. Notes: The Inca Trail is within the abilities of most reasonably fit people, but please come prepared, as the trail is 45 km long and often steep. Each day's journey generally consists of seven hours of walking (uphill and downhill), with stops for snacks and lunch. Trekking usually begins at 7 am (except on the fourth morning) and you reach the campsite around 5 pm. Accommodation on the trek is camping (three nights). Double tents (twin-share) and foam camping mats will be provided. The porters will set up the tents while the cook prepares meals. Route 2 Inca Quarry Trail: Make an early start today and drive to Choquequilla, a small ceremonial place where Incas worshipped the moon. Drive to the starting point of the trek, Rafq'a, and meet the horsemen who join us on the hike. After an hour’s walk, reach the small community of Socma. Carry on to the Perolniyoc cascade lookout, an opportunity to stop for photos and a food break. Continue to the campsite, which is 3700 metres above sea level. You should reach the campsite around lunchtime. After lunch, set off to explore the Q'orimarca archaeological site, which once served as a checkpoint to the Incas. Notes: The Inca Quarry Trail is within the abilities of most reasonably fit people. The hike is 26 km long in total and its highest pass is at 4450 metres above sea level. Throughout the trek, horses will carry your gear and camping equipment. The first two nights are spent camping and the third night you will stay at a simple hotel. Double tents (twin-share) and foam camping mats will be provided. The porters will set up the tents while the cook prepares meals. Route 3 Train: For those travellers disinterested in hiking the trail or who are unable to, spend two extra nights in Cusco before travelling by bus to Ollantaytambo. From here take a train through the winding Urubamba Valley to the town of Aguas Calientes where you’ll spend a third night. Please note: Included lunch and dinner on this day is for people trekking the Inca or Inca Quarry Trail only.

      Inca Trail, Inca Quarry Trail or Train option

      Route 1 Classic Inca Trail: This is the most challenging day of the trek, as we ascend a long steep path (approximately 5 hours) to reach the highest point of the trail. Colloquially known as 'Dead Woman's Pass', Warmiwanusca sits at a height of 4200 metres above sea level, providing amazing views of the valley below. The group will then descend to the campsite in the Pacaymayo Valley at 3650 metres. Route 2 Inca Quarry Trail: This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the hike. A three-hour walk takes us to the top of the first pass of Puccaqasa (approximately 4370 metres high). After enjoying picturesque views of the valley, it’s a short walk before stopping for lunch. Afterwards, make the hike to Kuychicassa (approximately 2 hours); this is the highest pass of the trek at 4450 metres. From here, descend to the sacred site the Incas called Intipunku (Sun Gate), with views of the Nevado Veronica mountain. Head to the campsite, which is only a stone’s throw away at Choquetacarpo. Route 3 Train: Today, perhaps use your free day indulging your inner foodie in the eateries of Cusco. Head to lunch at the arty Fallen Angel restaurant, and if you still have room for dessert, the ChocoMuseo offers tastings and chocolate-marking workshops. Please note: Included lunch and dinner on this day is for people trekking the Inca or Inca Quarry Trail only.

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      Trip Code: GGBZC

      Group Size: 16

      Start: Lima

      End: Rio de Janeiro

      Duration: 44

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