Eco-Zone Explorers

With Isabelle Alvarez, Resource Person and Tour Conductor

JULY 11 – 28, 2012

Peru is well known for its Andean Cordillera and the legacy of the Incas, the latter being well represented by its renowned and well visited lost Inca city of Machu Picchu. However, we ignore too often that Peru is more than that since a large part of its territory lies within the Amazon basin rainforest east of the Andes.

This 18 day educational journey is intended mainly to make you discover this amazing rainforest of Peru by taking you to the Manu Biosphere Reserve, located in the Amazon Basin of southeastern Peru. This biosphere, also a World Heritage Site, with over 1,8 million ha., and extending from the Puna of the highlands at13,000ft to the lowland tropical rainforest at 666ft, is one of the jewels of Peru. It has an international reputation especially amongst the scientific community since it holds one of  the world’s highest levels of biodiversity, including 13 species of monkeys and approximately 1000 species of birds, both being world records.

Since the Incas could not live apart from the rainforest to which they made several expeditions to enlarge and protecttheir realm and gain access to products from other ecological zones, we cannot travel to the rainforest without first visiting the highlands and the legacy of the Incas and that of the Spanish conquistadors who also explored the rainforest of Manu. We will then visit Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and a World Heritage Site, the Sacred Valley of the Incas with the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo and the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, also a World Heritage Site. The group will visit one or two local projects, most likely projects involving children.

A short visit to Lima will serve as an introduction to our journey.

Goal and Philosophy of the Trip

Through this dual environmental and cultural exposure, this journey’s ultimate goal is to make us reflect on our lives, on our connection to the rest of the world and on our footprint on the environment as well as the actions we can take to reduce it.  Hence, the group will be encouraged to engage in evening conversations as often as possible to share their impressions and concerns, and to discuss topics related to the areas visited, the environment and communities.

Sustainability and education are the leading drivers of this journey in which, as responsible travelers, we will observecodes of conduct and guidelines in order to minimize our negative impact on the environment and maximize our positive contribution to local communities. When organizing this trip, we carefully chose the services of hotels and other businesses that are as environmentally and socially responsible as possible.

This trip was designed by Isabelle Alvarez, the Resource Person and Tour Conductor for this trip. Her two partners, Worldwide Ecotours, http://www.worldwideecolodges.com/wp/tours-and-expedition-planning/, and InkaNatura Travel, www.inkanatura.com/aboutus_inkanatura.asp, were chosen because of their commitment to sustainability and conservation.

Highlights of the Trip

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Lima center, Cusco, Machu Picchu and Manu Biosphere Reserve.
• Protected Areas: Machu Picchu National Historical Sanctuary, Manu Biosphere Reserve (the largest tropical rainforest biosphere reserve in the world , holding one of the highest levels of biodiversity
• Rainforest communities belonging to different ethnolinguistic groups (Machiguenga, Amarakaeri, Huachipaeri and Yine)
• Andean Quechua linguistic group, especially in Cusco, Pissac, Ollantaytambo and Paucartambo
• The Amazon rainforest with its meandering rivers and primary and secondary forests, and its living creatures
• The beautiful and colorful macaws and parrots, as well as the outstanding national bird of Peru, the Andean cock-of-the-rock.

Who This Tour is For

This tour is for participants who:

• Are mainly adults (no age limit). Youth are welcome but it depends on the child, on his/her experience travelling, and if he/she is comfortable being with a group of adults.  Youth must be accompanied by adults.
• Are in reasonably good health and somewhat physically active.
• Have an interest in sustainability, conservation, and local cultures.
• Have a spirit of adventure and a passion for the outdoors.
• Speak English, Spanish or French. The Resource Person and Tour Conductor is trilingual and the local guides are bilingual (English-Spanish) and sometimes speak French too.

Itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)

July 11

Travel from Calgary to Lima.

July 12

We have one day to explore Lima. Our tour will include the Huallamarca huaca in San Isidro, the Museo de la Nación, central historical Lima with its Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, the Monasterio de San Francisco, the Iglesia de Santo Domingo and the Plaza San Martín, and finally Miraflores with its Parque del Amor. (B, L, D)

July 13

Travel from Lima to Cusco. The group will have a free and easy afternoon to adjust to the high elevation (just above 11000ft). This will be the perfect occasion for the group to have a taste of Peruvian culture by savoring the mate de coca or coca leaf tea, a natural remedy highly recommended to alleviate altitude sickness. In the evening we will meet to discuss the program for the next five days. (B,D)

July 14

We will spend the day strolling the streets of Cusco and visiting: the Qorikancha (temple of the sun), the Plaza de Armas with its Cathedral and many surrounding churches, the neighborhood of San Blas and its Museo Inka, and finally the Plaza de San Francisco and its nearby Central Market.  (B, L)

July 15

Today´s excursion will take us to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. On the way we will stop at the ruins of Saksayhuaman. Then we will head down to the valley where we will visit colonial Pisac with its colourful food and craft market as well as art and craft galleries. We will stop in Urubamba for lunch before heading to Ollantaytambo with its narrow cobblestone streets and massive Inca fortress above. We will spend the night in Ollantaytambo.  On this day we will visit a local school. (B, L, D).

July 16

We take an early train to Aguas Calientes where a bus will take us up to the sanctuary of Machu Picchu.  We will spend the rest of the day at the sanctuary. (B, L, D)

July 17

After a quick morning tour of Aguas Calientes, we will take the train back to Cusco. Afternoon at leisure in Cusco. (B)

July 18

We leave the Andean highlands to begin our 8-day journey to the Manu Biosphere Reserve and surroundings in the rainforest of southeastern Peru. On this first day the road takes us in a few hours from the Puna or tropical alpine grassland to the Yungas or cloud forest, where we will find our first lodge. We will pass several Quechua Andean communities, including Paucartambo. We will also stop at Oropesa (famous for making local bread), the Chullpas of Ninamarca (some pre-Inca burial tombs), and at a cloud forest research station where an amazing canopy walkway awaits us. (B, L, D)

July 19

Early morning we will go for a walk in search of the outstanding cock-of the-rocks, Peru´s national bird. Then we will continue our journey down through the cloud forest to finally reach the lowland rainforest. En route we will stop in Patria and Pillcopata, two rural communities of settlers. In Patria we will visit a coca plantation. In Pillcopata, we will meet with some of the members of Huacaria, a rainforest native community of Machiguengas. Then we will continue on to Atalaya where we will board our dugout motorized canoes that will take us downstream on the Alto Madre de Dios River to our lodge located in Manu Biosphere Reserve. On route we will stop in Shintuya where we will meet with its native people. We will arrive at our rainforest lodge before dusk (B, L, D)

July 20-22

Pantiacolla Lodge, at the base of the Pantiacolla Mountains, is set in a beautiful rainforest of bluffs overlooking the turbulent Alto Madre de Dios. Its 900 ha. of land offer miles of trails traversing a variety of habitats.  Our activities during the three days at the lodge will include: day and night guided walks; going to a macaw lick; great opportunities at all times to observe the so many species of wildlife that inhabit the highly diverse forests of Manu, including howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, brown capuchin monkeys, peccaries, deer, agouti, birds and many others; fishing; bathing in the nearby hot springs; and relaxing on the beach or simply on the hammocks hanging outside our rooms. We will also engage in evening discussions to share our impressions and if possible we will meet with special guests from nearby communities. (B, L, D)

July 23

Today we resume our downstream boat journey to the Yine Lodge on the banks of the Madre de Dios River. En route we will make two stops. The first one is Diamante, a native community of Yine. We will meet with some of its members who will show us their school, catholic chapel, gardens and craft work. Our second stop will be at Boca Manu, located at the mouth of the Manu River. This is a relatively significant community of settlers where we find a medical station, a school and some basic small stores, bars and restaurants. We will have time to enjoy some refreshments. We will arrive at our lodge before sunset.  (B, L, D)

July 24-25

Early in the morning our canoes will take us to Manu Wildlife Center, two hours downstream on the Madre de Dios River, where we will spend the next one and one half days. Although located outside the Manu Biosphere Reserve, the forests of MWC are still highly diverse and scientists often come here to do research. Our activities will include guided walks, going to a forest mammal lick and a river bank parrot and macaw lick, accessing lake floating platforms as well as canopy platforms. All these will give you great opportunities to sight the vast array of wildlife species that inhabit this area amongst which tapirs, deer, black spider monkeys, giant otters, macaws, and curassows. We will also engage in evening discussions to share our impressions and will have time to relax. (B, L, D)

July 26

Our dugout canoes will take us on our last river journey downstream to Puerto Maldonado where we will catch our afternoon plane to Cusco. The rest of the day in Cusco will be spent at leisure. (B,L)

July 27

This day gives the group the opportunity to do some shopping since Cusco has many places to buy crafts and Alpaca clothing.  Those interested can also visit other places of interest in Cusco (e.g., museums), around Cusco (e.g., the salt mines of Maras, and Moray) or one can head back to Sacsayhuaman above the city to take some last great pictures. We will also have our concluding meeting and dinner. (B, D)

July 28

Travel from Cusco to Lima where we will catch our flight back to Calgary. (B)

July 29

We arrive in Calgary.

Cost

Price in CAD$ per person, based on 15 participants and double occupancy: $5,450

• Single room supplement: $1,030
• If you are willing to share your room, we can try to make a roommate match.
• Included: all taxes, all domestic flights (Lima-Cusco-Lima and Puerto Maldonado-Cusco), all surface travel, all transfers, accommodation, all meals as listed in the itinerary, local Peruvian guides, entrances to sites, canopy walkway, visits to local communities and projects and respective donations, accompanying resource person and tour conductor, pre-departure orientation sessions (5 hrs) and trip handbook.
• Not included: international flights, local airport departure taxes, meals not included in the itinerary, travel insurance, tips and local gratuities, alcoholic beverages and personal expenses.
• Price based on: the costs and exchange rate at the time of printing and is subject to change to reflect any changes in hotel rates, entrance fees, airfares, fuel surcharge, currency rates, land costs and others beyond our control. Therefore, there are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment.

For More Information on the Trip Please Contact:

Isabelle Alvarez        ialvarezal@hotmail.com

Tel: 1-403-264-5348

Ruth MacRae               rmacrae@worldwideecotours.com

Tel:  1-403-247-8843              Toll Free:  1-888-788-2378

 

 

 

 

 

Featuring cloudforest visit,  high Andes paramo eco-zone, Incan culture, Amazon ecolodge, Huaorani indigenous experience, Galapagos 3 island stay and Avenue of the Volcanoes. You will make a connection with local people, contribute directly to conserving precious and threatened environments, help foster respect for native and traditional peoples and cultures, and support local projects that provide benefits for the communities you visit. This is the Ultimate Ecuador Eco-Zone Explorer Tour.

Day 1: Arrival to Quito

Meet your driver at the airport and be welcomed into Ecuador. From here you will be transferred to your night’s hotel.

Day 2: Mindo

This morning the first destination is in the Mindo Cloudforest. Cloud forests are at mid altitude and frequently become misty, creating a cool humid environment that supports an abundant biodiversity. You will travel through a kaleidoscope of landscapes and, upon arrival, you will have a brief introduction to the ecolodge facilities. This is a very interesting place where the owners have created a mini micro hydro site, and organic vegetable garden, a lovely main lodge with expansive sitting areas open to the cloud forest. The individual bungalows are self contained units with two bedrooms and one bathroom. Rough hewn construction, very comfortable and secure feeling. There are daily guided hikes and a tour of the facility included. (BLD)

Day 3: Mindo An optional 6:30 wake up call begins the day that starts with a guided walk to observe wildlife. You might see toucans, quetzals, parrots and sometimes small mammals, like squirrels and agoutis. After breakfast is another guided nature walk and several other optional activities: mountain biking, river tubing, zip lining, and horseback riding. Make a point to visiting the town of Mindo to try out the freshest chocolate you will ever taste at the Quetazal Cafe. They offer a free tour of the mini-plantation and show you the magic transformation from seed to elixir. Cacao pods actually originated from this region and were traded and then cultivated by the Azteca in Mexico. For many years, Ecuador was the world’s largest producer. (BLD)

Day 4: Otavalo

If you are inclined, you can take a very early morning excursion to see the rare courtship display of the cock o the rock. The trip involves a steep hike into a reserve, and then sitting in a blind to see the birds. They appear daily, but you must be quiet and unobtrusive. The display is quite riotous and colourful, although the air can also be quite misty. You come back to the lodge for breakfast. After breakfast you will travel to Mojanda, a mountainside ecolodge and organic farm, located near the town of Otavalo. (BLD)

Day 5: Otavalo (You can also read more in detail about Otavalo market by searching this blog for posts.)

Today, see the famous Otavalo market. Lunch is in a local indigenous-owned restaurant after which you will participate in a guided tour of local craft workshops, homes and nearby villages. Later, back at the lodge, you can take a walk in the amazingly beautiful hills, along foot paths adjacent to local farms. If you are lucky, you can be led by the lodge’s mascot to a pretty waterfall. (BLD)

Day 6: Cotopaxi

Today we’ll continue touring the highlands area, taking a scenic route south and east In the heart of Ecuador’s “Avenue of the Volcanoes”, just one hour south of the historic colonial city of Quito. Here travellers can choose between hiking and mountain biking in the clouds, riding horses with the local ‘chagras’ or Andean cowboys, and ziplines that will take you soaring over the spectacular mountain scenery.

Close to the truly majestic snow capped Mount Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano, visitors will experience an authentic taste of Ecuador’s colonial past during their stay in the comfortable accommodation provided by a real working ranch house built in colonial style, and nestled in the unsurpassed beauty of this region of the Andes.

Before we arrive at the lodge there will be a chanced visit to Cotopaxi National Park where the interpretation centre will give you an opportunity to get to know something about the plants and animals that populate this lush green mountain region. You will also learn about ancient eruptions of this truly majestic, snow capped, cone shaped volcano that have left an indelible imprint on the area.

After driving slowly up through the park and enjoying the mountain we will start our climb to the Padre Rivas mountain climbers´ refuge, situated at an altitude of 4,800m (15,744 feet) above sea level. Here you will be above the clouds, and the scenery is absolutely spectacular. This is truly the land of the gods. In the afternoon we will explore some of the other interesting areas of this important national park: the beautiful Limpiopungo lagoon situated in the mountain peaks, and 15 km beyond the lake, located on a small hill, we will explore the ruins of ancient Inca fortress (pucara) of Salitre.

And at the end of day, a delicious dinner, a warm fireplace and conversation in cheerful company will be waiting for us at our Mountain Lodge.

Day 7: Horse Riding on the Volcano
After a good breakfast an expert ‘chagra’ (Andean cowboy), who will also be our local guide, will show us how to ride a horse provided by the lodge. The ´chagras´ their colourful clothes and their well groomed horses are a reminder of the days when the horse was the main form of transport in the area. Our ride starts in the foothills of the craggy Rumiñahui volcano, named after a famous Inca general who lead the first uprising against the Spanish conquistadors. During the ride our local guide will share with us his knowledge of the ancient lore and myths of the region.

We will be back for lunch at the lodge and in the afternoon we will walk around the hacienda and visit the Manto Blanco waterfall. Or if you prefer, we can relax in the Hacienda take part in some of the activities or just settle in front of the fire and relax before the evening meal. Night: Mountain Lodge (BLD)

Day 7: OPTIONAL

For the traveller interested in a more active day we offer an optional, more adventurous excursion, that will take you across these beautiful Andes highlands:

The journey starts with a visit by horse back, mountain bike, hike (or if you prefer, drive) to El Tambo, a pre-colonial Inca refuge and stockyard that hosted and supplied Inca travellers that moved from the mountains to the coast and vice versa.

The journey up to El Tambo (the word signifies Travellers Rest), is truly impressive, the mountains, the llamas, the local communities, the Quichua culture. All these we can take in on the way up and back, accompanies by our local guide who will give us some insights into the culture and this beautiful part of the country.

At night we will stay at a hacienda where you can still see the original handcrafted stone floor of the Inca Tambo. This magical place is surrounded by volcanic sand and has fantastic views of Mt. Cotopaxi.
Alternative night: El Tambo, Cotopaxi

Day 8: Ecological Reserve and Ziplines
Today we will visit the Santa Rita private ecological reserve

We make our way up to the Hacienda Santa Rita Ecological Reserve to explore the forest canopy by zipline. This system was originally used by scientists who were doing research in the forest canopy and includes five cables between 100 and 480 meters long. The zipline provides a great vantage point for bird watching and enjoying the scenery, and will give you a real adrenaline rush as you soar above the trees. After a good picnic lunch, the group will be lead by the Reserve’s park rangers as they perform trail maintenance and rehabilitation.

The reserve is located on the slopes of Mt. Pasochoa. The trail we will take crosses high mountain forest at 3,300 m (10,824ft) above sea level. During our walk we will pass native forest until we get to the open grassland locally know as paramo, at 3,700 m above sea level. From here you will be able to view a magnificent panorama that includes the Antisana, Cayambe, Cotopaxi and Sincholagua volcanoes.

In the afternoon we will head further down the Avenue of Volcanoes to the town named Banos, in the shadow of the active volcano Tungurahua . (BLD)

Day 9: The Avenue of the Volcanoes and flight over the Amazon Rainforest

Getting to the Huaorani’s world is an amazing part of the experience. We drive from Banos to the town of Shell, a town named after the oil company, and we board a small plane, flying for 35 minutes to Quehueri ́ono over spectacular rainforest panoramas. A dug- out canoe will then take us to the Lodge where, after settling in, you will get your first taste of the Amazon, and explore one of the short forest trails close to the Lodge. Night: Huaorani ecolodge (BLD)

Day 10: Getting to know the Community
This is the day we get a chance to know the people of the Huaorani Community of Quehueri’ono. You will be able to join them in some of their daily activities and have a chance to share some of their history, myths and magic. Later, in the warmth of the evening we will relax in the company of the sounds of the Amazon rainforest. (BLD)

Day 11: On the Trail With the Huaorani
On the Hunting Trail. Accompanied by our guide and a member of the community equipped with lance and blow pipe, we explore the ways of the forest and the animals, entering the world the Huaorani share with them. You will be able to try your hand (or mouth) at the blow pipe and get to know more about this marvellous world that is now threatened by oil fields and palm plantations. (BLD)

Day 12: Reality Tour and Back to Quito
We travel on the Via Auca to the town of Coca (the formal name is Puerto Francisco de Orellana after the Spanish conquistador/explorer) where we will board the flight back to Quito. The journey will be revealing. The road was constructed by Texaco in the nineteen seventies as a way to access the oil fields and as we move along its eroded surface we will experience what the oil industry brochures don’t show, and appreciate why the Ecolodge is so important to the rainforest , the Huaorani and their way of life. (BL)

Day 13: Flight to Galapagos Islands
Fly to San Cristobal Island, and transfer to your hotel. After a tasty lunch, we’ll ride bikes to the Interpretation Center, and then on to the Loberia, a great spot to see colonies of sea lions. (B, L)

Day 14: Kayak and Snorkel
Today is the perfect day for taking to the water. We start with a great intro to kayaking, paddling from the Puerto Baquerizo beach to Cerro de las Tijeretas or Frigate Hill, which gets its name from the large number of Frigate Birds (Tijeretas) that live and nest there. Later we’ll snorkel at Leon Dormido, enjoy some fantastic kayaking next to a cliff filled with Galapagos birdlife (experienced paddlers can catch a big wave), and then try some snorkeling, with the chance to see dozens of harmless sharks and a colorful rock channel teeming with tropical fish. (B)

Day 15: Island of Isabela
Today we’ll take an early morning flight to Isabela Island and check into our hotel. After breakfast we’ll head to the small Tintoreras islands, a Galapagos in miniature. Here we’ll see white tipped reef sharks, sea lions, turtles, rays and Galapagos penguins. There’s also the chance to snorkel in the clear, turquoise waters of the bay, where we’ll be able to get a close up of the islands’ famous underwater life. In the afternoon we’ll visit the giant tortoise breeding centre. (B)

Day 16: Volcano Crater Hike
Today it’s time to stretch our legs. We’ll visit Sierra Negra, the largest crater of all the Galapagos volcanoes. It is a spectacular hike, and a perfect primer on the geology of the archipelago. We’ll enjoy some spectacular vistas over the island before returning to our hotel. (B)

Day 17: Wildlife and Water
This morning we’ll leave from the white sandy beach in front of our hotel and paddle to Villamil Bay, passing rays, penguins, and blue footed boobies, and watching the friendly sea lions that paddle along with us. In the afternoon we will walk the Wetlands Trail, through the mangroves and marine iguana colonies, to the Wall of Tears, built in the late 1940’s by WWII prisoners housed at the island’s US base. (B)

Day 18: Island Santa Cruz
We’ll leave in the early morning sun and travel by speedboat to Santa Cruz Island. After checking into our hotel we’ll head to the Highlands to see Giant Tortoises, and then explore lava tunnels and the ‘Los Gemelos’ a pair of giant volcanic craters. In the afternoon we’ll head to the spectacular white sand beach at Tortuga Bay where we can swim, snorkel, walk on the beach, and paddle amongst marine iguanas, sharks, and sea turtles. (B)

Day 19: Charles Darwin Research Centre and Mainland
After a morning visit to the Charles Darwin Research Center, we transfer to Baltra for our return flight back to mainland Ecuador. Of course, if you’ve fallen in love with these ‘enchanted’ isles – many people do – you can decide to extend your stay for a few days. There’s lots of scuba diving and naturalist day trips you can take to explore some of the other fascinating Galapagos islands. (B)

Day 20: Return Home
This morning the tour finishes with a transfer to the airport. You may want to extend your stay a few days and explore Quito. If so, be sure to ask about adding on some nights.

Day 1 IN / BOGOTA
Arrival and reception by our team in Bogotá.
Transfer to the hotel
Night at the hotel

Day 2 BOGOTA
Breakfast Buffet
In the morning City Tour is a three-hour excursion that visits the colonial area of “ La Candelaria “, the historical center of the city. It is the oldest part of the Capital, where we find museums, restaurants and cultural institutions. Then, we visit the Bolivar Square, the heart of the city, surrounded by buildings of various styles and periods, such as the Cathedral, the Chapel of El Sagrario, the Cardinal’s Palace and the Capitolio or Congress Building. Behind the latter, is the Nariño Palace, home of the Presidency. The majority of the most representative colonial buildings, with their typical balconies, are located to the east. We continue on to the Gold Museum that boasts a collection of more than 25,000 pieces of pre-Columbian manufacture, a unique display of its kind in the world. Then ascent in Cable car or Funicular to the Sanctuary of Monserrate.

Day 3  BOGOTA/ZIPAQUIRA / VILLA DE LEYVA
Breakfast Buffet
Morning departure from Bogotá toward Zipaquira. The town is primarily known for its Salt Cathedral, an underground church built inside a salt deposit in a tunnel made as result of the exploitation of the salinas (salt mines). Zipaquirá has a very interesting architecture, and the old city centre is a touristic attraction. Its main square is surrounded by old buildings in the Spanish Colonial style.
Lunch not included
Continue on to the province of Boyaca and the city of Tunja. This present day collge town is still intersteing due to its remants of colonial Spain and it is considered to be one a festival city in Colombia. We continue further to the Villa of Leyva. The town is located some 40 km west of Tunja and has a population of about 4,000 people.
Villa de Leyva is considered one of the finest colonial villages of Colombia, and was declared a National Monument in December 17, 1954 to preserve its architecture. It is located in a high altitude valley at 2,144 m altitude where fossils from the Mesozoic and the Cretaceous abound. It was founded in June 12, 1572 by Hernán Suarez de Villalobos and named alter the first president of the New Kingdom of Granada, Andrés Díaz Venero de Leyva.
Night at the hotel hotel EL DURUELO**** or Similar

Day 4 VILLA DE LEYVA/BOGOTA
American Breakfast
Deaprt to Village of Ráquira. Ráquira is famous in Colombia for its colony of artisans, who produce traditional northern Andean pottery & hand-woven goods. One can find dinnerware, mate cups, figurines and the well-known “chivas,” which are little cars decorated with animals and fruits that are very typical of our country. Nearby the Candelaria desert is has a beautiful Augustinian monastery, perhaps the oldest that is preserved in the center of the country, founded in l.602.
Return to Bogotá.
Night in the hotel

Day 5 BOGOTA /ARMENIA
Breakfast Buffet
This morning you transfer to the airport to take the flight toward Armenia, one of the three coffee growing centres of Colombia. Upon arrival you will take a trip to Salento and the magnificent Cocora valley, and whose municipality of Salento is a top touristic destination famous for its guadua crafts and furniture (the strong native bamboo cane), its art galleries and its fame for being the bohemian centre of regional artists. Tourists and hikers walk from here to reach the spectacular views of the Nevados peaks, the crystalline waters of the river Quindio, channels of rocks tinged with the vegetation and cradle of the Wax palm Colombia’s “National Tree. From here we head to the Finca EL DELIRIO (coffee farm) or Similar
Night in the Farm

Day 6ARMENIA / NATIONAL PARK OF THE COFFEE/ARMENIA
Typical breakfast of the Region
Today we leave for Montenegro and the National Park of the Coffee, a kind of coffee theme park. You will have a full day here day to enjoy the attractions like National Museum of the Coffee, the bamboo forest, an indigenous cemetery, a gondola ride, the coffee train, an animatronic show of the orchids, mountain scenery and more.
Lunch not included
In the afternoon return to the farm hotel
Night in the farm

Day 7  ARMENIA /BOGOTA
Typical breakfast of the Region
A hour suitable transfer to the airport to take the flight toward Bogotá, transfer to hotel. Balance of day free.

Day 8  ARMENIA /BOGOTA
American breakfast
At the appropriate time transfer to the airport to take the flight from Bogotá.

This is a wonderful tour that involves light walking in the mountains and visits to several wineries in a most beautiful part of the world. The itinerary straddles the Andean range and displays wineries and lodges in both Argentina and Chile. Now there are more flights being offered directly to Mendoza from Lima so that you can tack on this wonderful tour to a Machu Picchu trip. It stands alone as well and flights can be arranged easily from Santiago and Buenos Aires as well.

Day 1: Mendoza.

Flights will be met and you will be transferred to the hotel Finca Adalgisa for the night.  “Finca Adalgisa is an early 20^th century manor house and vineyard estate in the heart of the premier wine-growing region of Argentina.  It is a charming family home converted three years ago by Gabriela Fulotti (a third generation Argentinian/Italian) into the first boutique hotel and winery in Mendoza.  Although secluded and private, it is conveniently located within 20 minutes drive of Mendoza and is in walking distance of a thriving village community with plenty of local shops and restaurants. Our guests are warmly welcomed as new friends and our home is your home. We have a relaxing and informal environment where things can be arranged spontaneously. The region is well known for the popular Ruta de los Vinos (Route of the Wines) and includes our own wine tasting evenings.”

Day 2: Mendoza City and Wineries

This excursion will allows us to know Mendoza city, one of the most beautiful city of Argentina.

We will visit the old city, where Mendoza was born, and then we will stop in Alameda, the downtown, the Civic Center, General San Martin Park and see Cerro de la Gloria hill,  Mundialista stadium and Frank Romero Day amphitheater, which is the central stage of Vintage national festival.  At noon we will and enjoy an unforgettable gastronomic experience. We will meet the oenologist who will accompany us throughout the tour. We will depart to Mendoza’s agricultural oasis and visit two prestigious wineries, of wine’s circuit; we will visit its facilities and be able to participate in a guided wine tasting, during which we will begin to familiarize ourselves with the local’s wines, and its elaboration process. Our guide will explain us the technique of wine tasting, wine production techniques, the importance of the cork in the bottle and the correct way to handle a glass in order to taste wine.  As the sun sets behind The Andes mountains, we will return to the hotel.  B

 

Day 3: Day Hiking Cerro Mogote San Martín (Full day)

We will leave Mendoza city and head to our base, located in Blanco Encalada, only 35 minutes away from here. This place has a magnificent view due to its elevation 1,400 meters above sea level. Once in there we will start walking to our destination: “Cerro Negro” Mount (2.100 meters). It will take up to 2 hours to get to the summit where we can enjoy a great view of The Andes and the Mendoza river. From this point we will continue to the next mountain, called “Mogote San Martin”, about 200 meters higher. We return later today to hotel.  B, L

 

Day 4:  Santiago

Transfer Santiago (see choices for travel) to Atton el Bosque Hotel. Atton El Bosque is located in Santiago in a modern 18-story building with 240 spacious and cozy air conditoned guest rooms with king or queen size beds, private bathroom, Cable TV, work desk, minibar and safe deposit box.  B

Day 5: Maipo Canyon

Maipo Canyon day hike and tour the world famous Santa Rita Winery in the Maipo Valley with Lunch. Morning drive towards the Maipo Canyon up to Las Vertientes, a popular resort at the foothills of the Andes, with a view of the winding Maipo river. Continue to the Santa Rita winery located 40 kms south of Santiago, in the Maipo Valley.  Santa Rita owns an impressive estate with 800 hectares of vineyard land for the production of high quality wines, a completely modern Vinification facility and high storage capacity, as well as the old family mansion, which is surrounded by nearly 100 acres of a beautiful hundred-year-old park and ornamental gardens.

Continue to the San Alfonso Altiplanico Hotel. “The San Alfonso Altiplanico opened with eight elegant rooms.
It specially emphasizes customized premium attention, tour services, privacy, silence and leisure.  The hotel is built in a 20,000mt2 terrain, bounded by the Maipo river, surrounded by the Andes, it enjoys pure air and a spectacular panoramic view of The Andes Mountain Range.  It has, in addition, outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, a beautiful park, cable TV, central heating, massages, telephone, free internet, parking, laundry and gourmet meals.  Altiplanico San Alfonso is a place that invites to remain enjoying nature in a unique natural surrounding, while being in the vicinity of Santiago City.” BLD

Day 6:  San Alfonso

Full day at San Alfonso with a 6 hour hike to the Glacier El Morado. BLD

Day 7:  Santa CruzAfter breakfast we will start our trip to Santa Cruz Valley home of more than seventy vineyards. Continue to Santa Cruz Plaza Hotel.  The hotel’s attractive colonial-style construction draws together the noble spirit, tradition and history of past generations.
(Colchagua Valley) B

 

Day 8:  Visit and wine tasting at Viu Manent Winery . Viu Manent was established toward the middle of the 19^th Century with grape stock brought directly from France, and is thus one of Chile’s oldest makes of fine wines. The vineyard and winery at the Hacienda Cunaco in the Colchagua valley were acquired by Bodegas Viu in 1996, a family firm owned by Miguel Viu Manent. It has 150 hectares (370 acres) at the Hacienda Cunaco, with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Sangiovese, Syrah, Chardonnay Blanc, Semillon, Viogner.  These areas are complemented by the 50 hectares (95 acres) at the La Capilla estate, where Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay are grown. The annual production reaches 1.8 million liters and is exported to Europe, North America and Asia. The on site museum collection also boasts some fine Inca tapestries, nineteenth century horse-drawn carriages, woodcarvings from Easter Island and a tremendous collection of motor vehicles.  Lunch back at hotel.  BL

 

Mont gras Winery. Inspired by Hernán Gras, who has a brilliant winemaking career in Canada, along with the entrepreneurial vision of his brother Eduardo and local partner Cristian Hartwig, opened Viña MontGras in 1992.

MontGras, that has always has state-of-the-art technology in all its processes, set out from its conception to be the winery with the best premium wine from Chile. It is no accident then, the great amount of international prizes that have recognized the professional work, the constant quality and the innovation of MontGras wines

 

Day 9:   Valparaiso

After breakfast we will start our trip to the historical and pictureseque port city of Valparaiso. En route we visit to San Antonio and Casa blanca valleys.

 

Two wineries today . The new Matetic vineyards winery, designed by the Viña Matetic team in cooperation with architect Lawrence Odfjell, is a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, constructed so as to complement its glorious setting. In other words, harmony has been reached between the winery´s organic agricutural practices and the natural landscape of the valley. This winery, which has a 300 thousand-liter capacity, relies on a gravitational-flow design that optimizes management of the grapes brought in from the nearby vineyards. During a tour, visitors can learn about the different phases of wine production while appreciating stunning views of the vineyards and the beautiful Rosario Valley.  Lunch and at Casa Marin Winery.

 

Viña Casa Marín is a family-owned winery located in the San Antonio appellation, only 4 kms. from the coast. It is currently Chile’s closest vineyard to the Pacific Ocean.  It was founded in the year 2000 by Maria Luz Marín, winemaker and entrepreneur, whose goal of providing innovation to the local wine industry is being accomplished by her focus on premium wines which are a reality with the new “terroir.”

Then tonight it’s the boutique Hotel Zero, a converted traditional house, for 2 nights in Valparaiso.   The house faces the Pacific Ocean, bringing an impressive view that can be enjoyed with the morning light, with the colors of dawn or the gleaming magic of the night. You can see ships that arrive and ships that leave.  It is an excellent location for exploring the twisting streets of Valparaiso on foot. BL

 

Day 10:  Full day tour of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar

Valparaiso combines in its urban landscape the giant bulk of ships moored at its docks with the narrowness of its main streets. Ingenuity has transformed this abrupt piece of coastline into one of the world’s most picturesque and famous port cities. The views are particularly breathtaking when seen from sea at dusk; a semi-circle of illuminated hills cascading down to the water. The city was recently named as the Cultural Capital of Chile and will receive massive investment in coming years. Lunch at Delicias Del Mar Restaurant (seafood).

Chile’s premier beach resort, Viña del Mar, is only 10km (6 miles) north of Valparaiso, and is popularly known as the Garden City because of its manicured subtropical landscape of palm and banana trees. Horse-drawn carriages trot past attractive turn-of-the-century mansions on both river and beach frontages.

Other attractions are the white-sand beaches, numerous parks and notable museums housed in restored mansions. The town is also the home of Chile’s national botanical garden, comprising 61ha (151ac) of native and exotic plants. BL

Day 10: Transfer to Santiago Airport B

Today we head back to Santiago and your flight onward. Or inquire about visiting other areas.

Journey into a sacred land and discover our links with the past. In all great civilizations engineers have worked at providing a safer environment for their inhabitants.
From providing water to designing transport to constructing buildings, they help define how a culture perceives itself.
Join us in a tour that celebrates the achievements of those engineers who participated in developing some of the greatest civilizations of the world.

Nazca-Chimu-Moche-Inca

Day 1
Arrive in Lima, the capital city of Peru. Since arrival is late in the day, you will be escorted to your hotel for the night.
Day 2
This morning you will be given the opportunity to see some of the sights of Lima. An escort will pick you up at the hotel for a city tour. Highlights of the tour include the catacombs of San Francisco and the National Museum. Also included is the cathedral in the main plaza (Plaza des Armas), which contains the remains of the Spanish conqueror, Francisco Pizarro and exemplifies colonial architecture. (B,D)
Day 3
This morning a driver will pick you up for a full day to Nazca. On route, you will see the most common features of the Peruvian environment – the garua, which is a coastal mist formed by the upwelling caused by the Humboldt Current. As well, the desert, which covers 1/3 of Peru, is present for much of the drive. You will also be able to see the impact of the Andean rivers on the coast. At these locations the desert becomes an oasis and it is in these regions that the early cultures flourished. (B,L,D)
Day 4
Your morning will begin early as you prepare for a flight over the Nazca lines. Lasting about thirty minutes, you will be able to see the geometric patterns formed by a culture hundreds of years ago.

The Paraca-Nazca culture began around 200 BC. Their most famous achievement is the construction of the Nazca lines. Different theories, ranging from extraterrestrial space vehicle landing strips to aquifer locators, abound as to why the lines were constructed. While the reason for their construction remains a mystery, their present existence gives testimony to the Nazca’s advanced ability to visualize perspective.

Also see a goldmining workshop, and visit the Cantallo aqueducts, which still provides irrigation water today. Return to Lima (B,L)

Day 5
Today you will begin your tour of some of the ancient coastal cities of Peru, north of Lima. A driver will escort you to the airport where you will embark on a journey to the Chimu and Moche ruins around Trujillo.

Flourishing around 100-800 AD, the Moche empire is noted for its metallurgy, fine ceramics, large pyramids and intensive irrigation. In the same region, the Chimu empire prospered from around 1000 AD to the time of their conquerors, the Incas (~1470 AD). Ruling a kingdom 1000-km along the coastline, their imperial city, Chan Chán is the largest city of adobe in the world. Enclosing 28 sq. km, the royal city contains walk-in groundwater wells, irrigation complexes and agricultural storerooms.

Although the city of Chan Chán is comprised of nine complexes, many of the buildings are washed down from weathering and rains caused by El Nino, because most of the city was constructed of adobe. You will be able to tour the Tschudi complex, which highlights many of the Chimu styles. (B,L,D)

Day 6
A morning tour will take you to the Moche “pyramids of the sun and moon” (Huacas del Sol y de la Luna). 700 years older than Chan Chán, the pyramid of the sun is the largest pre-Columbian building in Peru. In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to see the Moche Ascope aqueduct and the La Cumbre canal, which is still in use today. (B,L)

Day 7
Today you will be transferred to the airport for an early flight to Lima, then the former silver mining town of Puno by Lake Titicaca. Located in the Peruvian altiplano, Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America. At an altitude of 3820 meters, it is famous for the reed boats and floating islands of the Uros people. It is also the southern portion of the former Incan empire. (B)

Day 8
In the morning you will be taken on a tour of the floating islands. The tour will be approximately four to five hours and you will have the opportunity to purchase handcrafted goods and souvenirs. The afternoon you will be free to enjoy the sights of Puno, and in the evening you will be treated to dinner. (B,L)

Day 9
An early morning flight will take you to the sacred city of the Incas – Cuzco. After a leisurely morning in town, where you can buy souvenirs, you will be given a guided tour of the Inca Museum. (B)

Day 10
Today will be the day for exploring ruins, as your guide takes you to the special Inca site of Sacsaywamán, just outside of Cuzco. The site was used for both religious and military purposes and was the base used by the Incas, when they rebelled against the Spanish conquistadors.

After a violent battle, the Spanish regained control of the fortress, leaving the bodies of the dead Incas to the condors. To this day the city of Cuzco has incorporated condors in its coat of arms.It has been speculated that the Incas designed Cuzco to resemble a puma when seen from the air, with Sacsaywamán forming the head. Some of this resemblance can be seen from ground level, where large zigzag walls are said to constitute the puma’s teeth. On this site there is a large tank-like structure containing stone conduits, said to provide water for up to 5,000 soldiers.

This afternoon you will be taken along the Sacred Valley of the Incas to another Incan ruin – Ollantetambo. This is where the defeated Incan leader, Manco Inca, retreated to after his defeat at Sacsaywamán. It was here that the Spanish suffered an ignomious defeat at the hands of Manco Inca, who strategically used the steep terracing and channels for flooding out the Spanish at the base of the site. The victory was short-lived though, when the Spanish returned in force to flush out the Incan warriors. This site, including the village at it’s base, exemplifies the best of Incan engineering. The town has extensive overland drainage control, including open channels designed for drainage to deal with the torrential downpours, and as a source of local drinking water. The courtyards by the houses show how the water during the rainy season was channeled into elaborate fountains. The “fortress” exemplifies the terracing and stonemasonry for which the Incas were famous. Although many stones weigh between kilograms, the finishing is so fine that a piece of paper can not be slipped into the joints. Also visible is the comparative architecture of the Spanish, which was constructed on top of and adjacent to the Incan structures.

En route to Ollantaytambo there will be a stop to view the Maras salt pans. (B,L)

Day 11
This morning you are free to explore Ollanta fortress as you wish.

In the afternoon you will embark on one of the most exciting journeys in the world – the train to Machu Picchu. Not know to exist by the Spaniards, Hiram Bingham brought Maccu Picchu to world attention in 1911, when he was searching for the last Incan stronghold of Vilacamba. The purpose of the site is still unknown, although there are many theories. One of these theories held that the site was used to house women for religious purposes, and was based on the fact that over 80% of the burial sites uncovered here contain the skeletons of women. (B)

Day 12
Today you will be taken to Machu Picchu to enjoy the ruins. An on-site guide will provide a preliminary tour, then you may explore until closing. On site you will be able to see the ceremonial baths, the pillar used for calculating the solstice, and a stone model presumed used by the original designers of Machu Picchu. If you wish, you may return early to Aguas Calientes. (B,L)

Day 13
The morning will be your return trip to Cuzco by train. In the evening you will be provided with a dinner with entertainment that celebrates the various cultures of Peru. (B, D

Day 14
Today you will fly from Cuzco to Puerto Maldonado – a small former rubber-producing town situated at the confluence of the Madre de Dios and the Tambopata rivers. There you will be met and transferred to the Tambopata river port and embark on a two-hour boat trip to your ecolodge where you will see the future of  tourism in a rainforest environment. Depending on the arrival time of the plane we will have a box lunch aboard the boats or have lunch upon arrival at your lodge. During our voyage we may see bird species typical of the river or forest adege such as: Black Skimmer, Pied lapwing, Capped Heron, Jabiru Stork, Roadside Hawk and several species of kingfishers, swallows and flycatchers. You will receive a short orientation and a complete briefing of the lodge and the Ese’eja Ecotourism Project before our afternoon activity – Ethno botany. In this activity, we will hike the trails around the lodge with an Ese’eja native, who will explain to us the everyday uses of forest medicine, construction, food and fiber. At some point in our walk, we will visit a small parakeet clay click. Dozens and sometimes hundreds of Blue Head Parrots, Orange-Cheeked Parrots, Cobalt-winged parakeets and sometimes even the rare Rock Parakeet congregate here on clear days to ingest clay. This congregation creates a riotous and colorful wildlife spectacle where the greens, oranges, reds and blues of the parrots dance around the bank as each individual parrot competes for their choice beakful of clay. (L, D)

The beautiful “White City” of Arequipa and the nearby Colca Canyon is the perfect place to start or finish a trip to Peru and is ideal for acclimatising oneself to the rarefied air of the Andes or for relaxing in Hot-springs following your Amazonas Explorer adventure. The road to Puno has now improved sufficiently to make the overland journey to Puno and Lake Titicaca a viable extension.

DAY 1: Arriving in Arequipa, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your centrally located hotel. Arequipa is known locally as “The White City”. You have the rest of the day free and we recommend you visit the Santa Catalina Monastery. First opened to the public in 1970, it is a maze of intricate architecture and a photographer’s paradise. You can also take in Juanita – the Inca ice maiden, the impressive Plaza de Armas with its earthquake damaged Cathedral and sample the delights of local cuisine in a typical ‘Picantaria’.

DAY 2: Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and then, by private minibus you head inland to the Colca Canyon, climbing high into the Andes, hopefully spotting vicunas, flamingos and other rare wildlife, before descending to Chivay. You stay the night in a charming lodge, built in traditional Colca style with near-by perfect temperature hot-springs. (B/L/D)

DAY 3: Early this morning you head to the very rim of the Colca Canyon, Cruz del Condor where, if you are lucky, you can see condors soaring in the thermals created by the deep gorge. From here you return to your Lodge including several stops to visit local towns and many beautiful photo opportunities. From the lodge you can visit pre-Inca ruins, an ancient cemetery and explore the surrounding hills, or simply relax in near-by hot-springs. (B/L/D)

DAY 4: Today you drive back to Arequipa. On arrival in Arequipa you are transferred to your hotel with free time for sightseeing and shopping. Arequipa is famous for its reasonably priced, high quality, Alpaca and Vicuna garments. (B/L)
Alternatively you could drive to Puno for a lake Titicaca Extension.

DAY 5: Transfer to Arequipa airport for your on-going connection.  (B)

INCLUDED:  Airport transfers in Arequipa, two nights in 3 Star Hotel in Arequipa, private minibus with guide to Lodge, two night in Lodge, minibus to Cruz del Condor and return to Arequipa, meals where indicated. Entrance to Colca National Park ($12). Local English speaking guide

NOT INCLUDED: Internal flights to and from Arequipa, meals where not indicated, tips and personal expenses.

Why did the Inca believe that the long valleys  in the Andes were sacred? This tour explores many fascinating ruins and developments of the ancient Inca and their modern descendants. You begin the journey with a visit to the Larco Museum in Lima which chronicals 3000 years of civilisation in Peru. You then fly to Cusco and the Sacred Valley to continue the exploration seeing some less visited sites as well as the amazing citadel of Machu Picchu. Your visit will also be directly helping local people in protecting cultural heritage and biological diveristy.

Day 1: Arrival in Peru
You will arrive at the airport and be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel in Miraflores.

Day 2: Larco Museum
Mid-morning your guide will take you to the Larco Museum.  This private museum opened in 1926 and features the finest gold and silver collection from Ancient Peru and the famous erotic archaeological collection. After a visit here you will be taken back to the hotel for some free time.(B)

Day 3: Flight to Cuzco and  City Walking Tour
According to the legend, the city was built by Inca Pachacuti, who transformed Cuzco from a sleepy city-state into the vast empire of Tahuantinsuyu. The first Spaniards arrived in 1533, and undertook the construction of a new city on the foundations of the old Inca city, replacing temples with churches and palaces with mansions for the conquerors. Your guided walking tour will include:
1. KORIKANCHA or Temple of the Sun. As Cuzco was the center of the Tahuantinsuyo (Inca Empire), this is one of the most important of Inca temples.
2. CUZCO CATHEDRAL:  The Cathedral was finished in 1664, more than one century lafter constuction began on the site of and Inca palace. Balance of day is free. (B)

Day 4: Urubamba
Today we will have a full-day tour of Urubamba and the Sacred Valley to see two of the Inca’s most generous gifts to the world: beautiful hand made weavings and potatoes. We will start with Andean Weaving Village. Textile production has profound historic and cultural significance in the Andes, and this community is part of a highly successful National Geographic Society-supported project to rescue and revive this way of life. Women are the owners and drivers of this activity, and we will see how their gregarious processes of spinning, the gathering and use of natural dyes, the setting up of looms and the creation of designs, are fundamental to the family and social bonds of these highland communities. Next you’ll visit the Potato Park Indigenous Bio-cultural Heritage Area: The Potato Park focuses on protecting and preserving the   indigenous bio-cultural heritage by showcasing  sustainable use of agro-biodiversity. Lunch included at the Potato Park. We then continue to the town of Ollantaytambo for the night.
B, L

Day 5: Machu Picchu
This morning you will embark on one of the most exciting journeys in the world – the train to Machu Picchu. Not known to exist by the Spaniards, Hiram Bingham brought Machu Picchu to world attention in 1911, when he was searching for the last Incan stronghold of Vilacamba. You will have the balance of the day to explore the citadel of Machu Picchu after your guided tour. Late in the afternoon you board the last train to Ollanatytambo.(B,L)

Day 6: Ollantaytambo, Maras and Moray.  By now it will be clear why the Inca called this area the Sacred Valley. The ability to grow crops was a gift from Pachamama and the Inca used this gift in the most ingenious ways. Ollantaytambo is called a fortress, but its not. Its an agricultural terrace and the structures at this site outlast the ones built by the Spanish. At Maras and Moray you’ll more ingenuity. The first site is a series of concentric terraces that grow vegetables and crops in varying elevations and microclimatic conditions. By carefully noting the crop maturity in the terraces Inca farmers were able to predict the harvesting times of similar crops planted elsewhere in the valley. The second site is a salinera where a series of terraced evaporation ponds extract salt from the trickling water as it makes its way through the system.  After here you will be overnight in Cusco.(B,L)

Day 7: Tipon
This morning you will see the great water fountains and canals of Tipon. During the rainy season, these fantastic structures really show how clever the ancient Inca were at adapting their environment. In fact there have been research projects done to understand just how the managed this. Return to Cusco for the balance of the day. B,L

Day 8: Transfer to Aiport and flights out. (Note that many international flights leave Lima very late in the evening.)

INCLUDED: Accommodation in Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu town. Private English- speaking, registered guide, private transport, the vistadome train & bus transfers to Machu Picchu. Entrance to all Cusco & Sacred Valley Inca Sites, Korikancha, Cathedral,  and Machu Picchu. Meals only as indicated: B- Breakfast, L- Lunch, D- Dinner.

We offer a slower paced in more depth tour of the Sacred Valley to allow you a relaxed and intimate visit to this truly remarkable area. Hotels are generally boutique style locally owned, moderate level.

Day 1: Lima   You will arrive at the airport and be met by our local representative and transferred to a comfortable hotel in Lima.

Day 2: Cuzco   A morning flight will take you to Cuzco. A leisurely day in town where you will be escorted by your guide on a walking orientation tour of the areas near your hotel. You can relax today in the ancient Inca capital and adjust to the high elevation. (B)

Day 3: Cuzco    Today will be the day for exploring ruins with a visit to the Koricancha, Tambomachay with their water fountains; Kenko, the religious center; Puca-Pucara, the red fortress, and finally the fortress of Sacsaywaman. All thes sites are important and fascinating developments that the pre-columbian Inca people designed and built. (BL)

Day 4: Sacred Valley   Full day tour to the Sacred Valley of the Inas  us visit the Indian Market and ruins of Pisac in the morning and Ollantaytambo fortress in the afternoon. This site, including the village at it’s base, exemplifies the best of Incan engineering showing in stark contrast the advantage of the Incan building technology over the later Spanish. Overnight at Ollantaytambo.(B,L)

Day 5: Sacred Valley   Full day tour to visit Chinchero, Maras and Moray. Famous for its salts and exploited from Inca times until today Maras is a fascinating visit due to the wonderful show of hundreds of salt ponds.  Moray is located 9 Km away from Maras and has elliptical irrigation terraces that were used as an ingenious Inca agricultural center.  This is a lovely day of mild walking around sites.(BL)

Day 6: Machu Picchu    Today you will embark on one of the most exciting journeys in the world – the train to Machu Picchu. Not known to exist by the Spaniards, Hiram Bingham brought Maccu Picchu to world attention in 1911 when he was searching for the last Incan stronghold of Vilacamba. Your guide will accompany you on the train and provide a guided tour at Machu Picchu. Late in the afternoon, the guide will return to Cuzco as tomorrow is a free day.(B)

Day 7: Machu Picchu – Cuzco    Today will be a chance revisit Machu Picchu on your own before the morning trains come in with the tourists (second day entrance fee is not included) There are local hikes you may take and about mid-day you will be able to return all the way to Cuzco by train where we will be meeting you again for a transfer to your Cuzco hotel. This evening you will have a special farewell dinner at a local restaurant.(B)

Day 8: Transfer and flight back to Lima and onward flight home.

Daily Year Round Includes: 7 nights accommodation, Guided walks and tours as described. all transfers, meals as noted (BLD = breakfast, lunch, dinner), all local taxes. Can be modified to suit your time and interests. Airfares not included.

Get to know local people, and their customs and traditions.  Join in the world of the Alpaca and Llama herders, and wander in the same space where the Andean culture originated

INTRODUCTION
Two indigenous Andean communities in conjunction with a Cusco tour outfitter have designed a hiking-route with four mountain lodges to satisfy travelers from all over the world in search of a challenge with comfort and style.

The “Camino del Apu Ausangate” provides a unique trekking experience, off the beaten path, in the Cordillera Vilcanota, a remote and unspoiled high mountain paradise in the Andes department of Cusco.  It offers a rare opportunity to enjoy a few days in harmony with nature and isolated Andean shepherds, combined with the comfort of cozy, eco-friendly Andean Lodges. After a catch up day in Cusco, a spectacular rail tour to Machu Picchu.

Day 1: You will arrive at the airport and be met by our local representative and transferred to a hotel in Lima.

Day 2: An early morning flight will take you to Cuzco. A leisurely day in town, where you can buy souvenirs and adjust to the high elevation. (B)

Day 3: Today will be the day for exploring ruins with a visit to the Koricancha, Tambomachay with their water fountains; Kenko, the religious center; Puca-Pucara, the red fortress, and finally the fortress of Sacsaywaman. (B, L)

Day 4: Full day tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas to visit the Indian Market of Pisac in the morning and Ollantaytambo fortress in the afternoon. This site, including the village at it’s base, exemplifies the best of Incan engineering. (B,L)

Day 5: We start in city of Cusco, with an interesting bus-ride along the Vilcanota Valley, on the paved main-road from Cusco to Puno (Lake Titicaca).  After a stop at the town of Checacupe and a visit to its beautiful colonial church, we ascend the Japura Valley that leads to the communities of Osefina and Chillca, the final stop of the bus-journey, where the groups are received by the locals.  From there it’s only a 20 minute walk to the first lodge, the Chillca Tambo (4,300 m / 14,000 ft).  Upon arrival, have time to explore the surroundings, or just to relax, enjoying the beautiful views and sceneries.  In the evening people from the village will entertain our groups with traditional music.

Day  6, 7, 8 : The actual trekking begins early in the morning after breakfast. The distances on the trail vary from around 6 to 11 miles/10 to 16 km per Day. The lodges are all within daily walking distances, easily reachable in six to seven hours, considering regular hiking-speed and plenty of stops for taking pictures and enjoying the landscapes.
While on the trail, hikers will need to carry a day pack (camera equipment, water bottle, extra layers, rain gear, and other accessories they might need on the trail). The hike itself is rather demanding, mostly due to the altitude, ranging from 14,000 to 16,700 ft/4,300 to 5,100 m at the highest pass. There are also some significant changes of altitude during the course of the day. (BLD)

Day 9: When we reach the road halfway between Chillca and Checacupe.  It ends with a picnic lunch, before boarding the bus back to Cusco, on the above mentioned road. (BL)

Day 10:  Today is a free day to relax back n the city. (B)

Day 11: Today you will embark on one of the most exciting journeys in the world – the train to Machu Picchu. Not known to exist by the Spaniards, Hiram Bingham brought Maccu Picchu to world attention in 1911, when he was searching for the last Incan stronghold of Vilacamba. (B)

Day 12: Today will be your return trip to Cuzco by train with time to revisit Machu Picchu on your own if you wish (the second day entrance fee is not included). (B)

Day 13: Transfer and flight back to Lima and onward flight home.

Besides the llamas, that carry a large part of the clients luggage, our groups are also followed by horses.  Weary participants have the option to continue the trip on horseback. AN option exists to ride horse the whole trip at a small extra cost of US$250 pp. This is to pay for the extra horse guide.

Tour Includes: 12 nights accommodation, all local airfares, and transfers from airport, fully guided, breakfasts daily and all meals while trekking.

This expedition voyage explores some of the most untouched rainforest in all of the Amazon. It is an 8 day trip where we travel by riverboat far up the Rio Negro to an area very rarely visited, exploring the mysterious life of the wilderness that stirs in the forest and in the heart of wild nature. We visit quite remote forest that has very few settles so the flora and fauna is very little disturbed.

Sailings Every Second Monday Year Round, 8 days/7Nights

Day 1 This morning all guests board the vessel the Motor Yacht TUCANO and depart upstream on the Rio Negro. Through the morning we will cruise through the world’s largest river island system, the Anavilhanas Archipelago. From the observation deck we scan the magnificent tangle of vegetation at the water’s edge. By mid-afternoon the vessel has gone beyond the frontier of settlement and entered a wilderness area. Both shores are covered by dense rainforest. Though we never know what we will see, we have a good chance of observing pink river dolphins and a large collection of exotic birds. Most certainly we will be treated to magnificent forest vistas and the spectacular trees themselves. In the late afternoon we embark in the launches and hunt for wildlife. We may also go for a swim in some of the world’s most clean and refreshing water. (LD)
Day 2 Early this morning we explore the rainforest along the waters edge in our launches. We should hear and perhaps see howler monkeys along with a morning serenade of toucans. After breakfast we go for a walk in the forest where we will get a good start on understanding Amazon ecology. Around midday we return for lunch and the vessel will get underway, perhaps stopping at a place to swim. In the late afternoon we will explore the forest in our launches and listen to the sunset chorus of birds and frogs. (BLD)

Day 3 This morning there will be an early exploration of the waking forest. We will keep our eyes open for monkeys- on most trips we see them often. We return for breakfast followed by either a walk in the forest or an excursion in the launches. TUCANO will travel during the middle of the day and we stop in the afternoon for an excursion. Tonight the vessel may travel a bit more as we marvel at the night sky crowded with stars. (BLD)

Day 4 After our two morning excursions TUCANO will navigate along the heavily forested shore, scouting for wildlife. We may stop for a visit at a settler’s home carved out of the forest. In the early afternoon we will be near an extraordinary river called the Rio Jauaperi. Here we will see a kind of forest known as the varzea. We will scout along the shoreline for some of the extraordinary creatures found only in this unique environment. Weather permitting we will do a night excursion to observe nocturnal creatures. (BLD)

Days 5 Today we depart the Rio Jauaperi and for the next two days proceed downstream on the Rio Negro exploring a new collection of rainforest habitats. In the daytime we will continue to scout in our launches, walk in the forest, and at night hunt for nocturnal wildlife. (BLD)

Day 6 After a walk in the forest we cross to the West bank of the Rio Negro, exploring as we go. We will stop at the substantial boat building village of Novo Airão. As we walk through the streets we’ll marvel at how the 19th Century thrives in this remote corner of the globe. Tonight TUCANO goes downstream to arrive at daybreak near the confluence with the Amazon River. As we glide through the starry darkness this is a good night to sip the national drink of Brazil, the “Caipirinha”. (BLD)

Day 7 This morning we explore the Lago Janauari Ecological Park where seasonally the thick brown water of the Amazon flows swiftly through the forest. This area is usually a very good place to observe wildlife. Around midday the vessel will travel to the “Encontra das Aguas” a stark several mile long line where the world’s two largest rivers, the Amazon and the Negro, join in a turbulent maelstrom. Here the dark water of the Negro runs beside the opaque brown water of the Amazon. In the afternoon we scout one of the hidden streams in the area to try to see more of the Amazon’s beautiful and bizarre creatures. Tonight there will be one last excursion looking for nocturnal life. (BLD)

Day 8 In the morning all guests disembark from TUCANO. Some guests will participate in an optional tour of the city of Manaus before transferring to the airport. (B)

Meal Codes: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner/ Please note that the day to day schedule must be considered approximate. The exact order of the days and specific features may be altered due to navigational consideration