Eco-Zone Explorers

DETAILED ITINERARY
19 Day World in One Country – Mpumalanga Panorama Route, Game Drives in Kruger National Park, Kingdom of Swaziland, Cultural Experience and Game Drives in Zululand, Walking in the Drakensberg Mountains, Lesotho 4×4 Route, Garden Route, Cango Caves & Karoo, Cape Town

A semi-participation safari from Johannesburg to Cape Town through South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho.

Meal Key:
B – Breakfast L – Lunch D – Dinner

Itinerary
DAY 1: Johannesburg to Mpumalanga, South Africa LD
Departing from Johannesburg at 06h30 we head east towards Mpumalanga. A landscape characterized by mountains, panoramic passes, valleys, rivers, waterfalls and forests. We spend the night just outside the old gold rush town of Pilgrims Rest, a living museum dating back to 1873. We explore the quaint town and visit the Mac Mac falls.

Distance: 500 km
Accommodation:Crystal Springs Mountain Lodge (chalets with en-suite bathrooms)

DAY 2 – 3: Kruger National Park, South Africa BLD
This morning we stop at the “God’s Window” viewpoint before heading to the Kruger National Park. Big game country – exciting game drives provide us with excellent game viewing. Spot lion, elephant, rhino and other animals in one of the last African wildernesses. Early morning & afternoon game drives get us close to the wildlife.

Distance: 200 km
Accommodation: Berg en Dal Camp (Bungalows with en-suite bathrooms)

DAY 4: Kingdom of Swaziland BLD
The mountainous Kingdom of Swaziland, lead by King Mswati III, is one of 3 monarchies in Africa. Swazi’s are proud of their traditional lifestyle & cultures. Hlane is a home to white rhino, zebra, giraffe, elephant, ostrich, crocodile, wildebeest and impala as well as small populations of lion, cheetah, leopard and hyena.

Distance: 150 km
Accommodation: Ndlovu Camp (Huts with en-suite bathrooms)

DAY 5-6: Zululand, South Africa BLD, BLD
After visiting a craft market en route, we re-enter South Africa. Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Reserve is a safe haven for the white rhino. We have an afternoon and the following morning to do game drives in our vehicle and stop at hides and waterholes to watch game come down to drink. The first afternoon we visit a local Zulu village to learn about their culture, traditions and lifestyle.

Distance: 350 km
Accommodation: Hluhluwe Hilltop Camp (chalets with en-suite bathrooms)

DAY 7: Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa BLD
Moving further south to the base of the Drakensberg (Dragon Mountains). We spend one night here allowing time for walking along beautiful mountain stream paths the next morning.

Distance: 450 km
Accommodation: Underberg Region (Cottages with en-suite bathrooms)

DAY 8: Sani Pass, South Africa BLD
Early this morning we explore the picturesque Drakensberg Mountains on a short guided walk. Afterwards we make our way up the scenic Sani Pass in direction of Lesotho. The Sani Pass is a spectacular mountain road that is a well-known entry point into Lesotho from South Africa. It is the gateway to the ‘Roof of Africa’ scenic route that links the spectacular scenery of the Drakensberg with the mountains of northern Lesotho.

Distance: 100 km
Accommodation: Sani Top Chalet (Rooms with en-suite bathrooms)

DAY 9 & 10: Lesotho BLD
Today we cross the border into Lesotho and make our way down the Sani Pass along an adventurous 4×4 route towards the western border of Lesotho. After a long day we arrive at Malealea Lodge, where we spend two nights. Malealea is situated in a remote part of Western Lesotho that is breathtaking in its beauty. This is a chance to experience traditional Basotho life. On Day 10 we enjoy pony trekking through the magnificent landscapes that Lesotho has to offer.

Distance: 520 km
Accommodation: Malealea Lodge (Rooms with en-suite bathrooms)

DAY 11: Cradock, South Africa BLD
We leave the beauty of Lesotho behind us and cross the border back into South Africa. We drive to the historical Karoo town of Cradock. Founded in 1814 as a frontier stronghold, the town is an important agricultural centre with traditional Karoo hospitality, situated close to natural sulphur springs.

Distance: 395 km
Accommodation: Die Tuishuise (rooms with en-suite bathrooms)

DAY 12-13: Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa BLD
A conservation success, Addo Elephant N.P. offers a unique wildlife area, famous for the Addo elephants. We head out on game drives in search of elephant, black rhino, lion, buffalo and leopard. Evening viewing at the floodlit waterhole allows us to watch the nocturnal animals.

Distance: 600 km
Accommodation: Addo Elephant Campsites (Bungalows with en-suite bathrooms)

DAY 14-15: Tsitsikamma, South Africa BLD, BLD
Indigenous Tsitsikamma forests surround the campsite at Storms River mouth, and there are walks up the Storms River Gorge and along the rocky coastline. There is an option of world’s highest bungi jump (own expense). Whale watching in season (July to November).
Distance: 260 km
Accommodation: Storms River Campsite (Bungalows with en-suite bathrooms)

DAY 16: Karoo, South Africa BLD
After visiting ‘The Heads’ in Knysna, a town nestled on a tranquil lagoon we travel over the Outeniqua Mountains into the Little Karoo. In Oudtshoorn we visit the famous Cango Caves. We camp outside Oudtshoorn and enjoy our final night under Africa’s starry skies.

Distance: 400 km
Accommodation: Kleinplaas Campsite (Chalets with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool & cafeteria)

DAY 17 – 18: Cape Town, South Africa B, B
Visit Stellenbosch, for wine tasting and a cellar tour. Explore Cape Town and the ‘Mother City’s’ many attractions; visit Cape Point, the Cape of Good Hope, Chapman’s Peak drive, the harbour at Hout Bay, enjoy the famous beaches and the V&A Waterfront. Optional visit to Robben Island (own expense). Meals at a variety of local restaurants (own expense).

Distance: 410 km
Accommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Cape Town (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, close to restaurants & shops)

DAY 19: Cape Town, South Africa B
We climb Table Mountain in the morning admiring the views over Table Bay and Cape Town. Spend the afternoon catching up on last minute curio shopping or just lazing on the beach absorbing the Cape’s sunshine.
Tour ends at +/-18h00 at your hotel.

Please note that there will be 2 additional hotel nights on this tour, one pre tour night and one post tour night. These will be prearranged for your convenience.

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.

Sukau Rainforest Lodge Experience

The 20 room lodge was built in 1995 in traditional Malaysian architecture using several Borneo hardwood species. It is built on stilts with a lounge, gift shop, education centre, Hornbill Boardwalk with two elephant passes, three open deck for wildlife viewing, an enclosed garden, a riverside Melapi restaurant, open sun-deck, river jetty. Electricity is supplied by acoustic generator, and hot water by solar heaters. All rooms are twin bedded, with ceiling fan, mosquito netting, attached bathroom, hot shower and toilets. River tours are conducted by boats powered by electric motors and four stoke outboard engines. Birdlife is especially rich here including eight species of hornbills, kingfishers, egrets, darters, owls, kites, eagles, broadbills, doves, storm storks, herons, hawks, ospreys, falcon, pheasants, parakeets, bee eaters, woodpeckers, pittas, bulbuls, forktails, babblers, warblers, flycatchers, orioles, flowerpeckers, spiderhunters, among others.

Day  1

Arrive  Kota  Kinabalu meet and  transfer to  hotel for  overnight.

Day  2

Depart from your hotel early morning for a 2 ½ hours journey to Kudat, the land of the last longhouses in Sabah. After lunch, we set off our journey to the ‘Tip of Borneo”. Witness the picturesque view of South China Sea meeting Sulu Sea, an exceptionally breathtaking scene you would ever come across. Proceed to longhouse homestay for check in. Cycle (optional) through scenic villages, oil palm estates and farms to Mompilis Village Longhouse. Enjoy fresh coconut drink and witness cultural activities while mingling with the friendly local folks and children. Return to longhouse homestay for shower. Enjoy a traditional-style dinner followed by colourful cultural performance by local Rungus community. Overnight in Twin Share room. Mattress and mosquito net are provided. (BLD)

Day 03

Wake up to the calls of roosters and enjoy the tranquility of the village. Take your breakfast before we trek to the nearby rubber estate. Test your skill at rubber tapping before continuing your journey to Kinabalu Park with lunch en route. Drive approximately 3 hours overland (88 km) through paddy-fields and Dusun villages over the ridges of the Crocker Range to the foothills of Mt. Kinabalu at 5,000 ft, to arrive at the park headquarters at Kundasang. Overnight at nearby lodge. (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

Day 04

Visit the Visitor Centre and Mountain Garden; home to some of the 24 species of flowering rhododendrons, 10 species of carnivorous pitcher plants, estimated 1,400 species of orchids, over 600 species of ferns, more than 40 species of oak trees and over 300 species of birds. Proceed to Poring (130km), 450m, above sea level, east of Kinabalu Park HQ. Vegetation here is tropical lowland rainforest. Explore the jungle trail leading up to the treetop canopy walkways, 41m above the forest floor. Visit Kipungit Waterfall and soak in hot sulphur pools before we return to Kota Kinabalu in mid afternoon. (BL)

Day  5

P/up and proceed   to  airport  for  flight  MH2042 at 0730/0810hrs.

On arrival at Sandakan Airport by morning flight, transfer to Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre for video show. Trek ten minutes through the rainforest on wooden plank walks to witness the feeding of the orang utans at 1000hrs. Continue to Sandakan jetty for boat journey to Sukau Rainforest Lodge along Sabah’s longest river, Kinabatangan with opportunity to view birds and wildlife in virgin mangrove, wetland and rainforest habitats. Late afternoon take a river cruise using electric motor in search of some of the 10 primate species including Proboscis monkeys as they settle down on treetops along the Kinabatangan River. Return for solar heated hot shower, candle light dinner and slide show conducted by naturalist guide. Overnight at Sukau Rainforest Lodge. (LD)

Day 6

Wake up to the calls of gibbons and hornbills. A 0600hrs morning river cruise up the Kinabatangan River to view more birds and wildlife. Proceed to the Kelenanap ox-bow lake for a short jungle walk (if weather permits). Experience the wilderness of Borneo. You have the option to participate in our Kinabatangan Wildlife Corridor Regeneration Programme (KWICORP) by planting trees at our 64 acres adopted land.  In the afternoon, we proceed for another river cruise for more wildlife. After dinner an optional night safari cruise (at a surcharge) spotting nocturnal animals, crocodiles and birds. Overnight at Sukau Rainforest Lodge. (BLD)

Day 7

After breakfast, return to Sandakan by boat journey. Have lunch before we proceed for a short tour of Sandakan town including the Australian War Memorial. Transfer to airport for late afternoon flight to Kota Kinabalu.  (BL)

Day  8

Transfer to jetty for 20 minutes boat journey to Gaya Island. Explore the 2km jungle trail and learn about some of the unique medicinal plants, tropical hardwood trees, coastal vegetation, tropical dipterocarp rainforest and the ecology of the mangrove forest. Transfer across to Manukan Island for a picnic lunch.  Relax, snorkel and free at leisure before returning at 1500 hours. (Snorkeling gear available for hire at a surcharge).Please bring along towel, hat, walking shoes, insect repellent, water bottle, swim wear and sun block lotion. (BL)

Day  9

Free  at  own  leisure. (B)

Day  10

P/up  at  hotel  and  transfer to airport for flight onward.  (B)

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.

Costa Rica has an amazing variety of habitats from lowland humid forests to misty cool cloud forests. This program designed by one of Costa Rica’s top ornithologists, Leo Chavez, covers the top birding sites in Costa Rica, including the Costa Rican Birding Route.

Day 1: San Jose
Meet driver at the airport and then transfer & overnight Don Carlos Hotel in San Jose.

Day 2: Cerro de la Muerte
You will meet your driver this morning for your transfer to Savegre Lodge. Savegre Mountain Lodge’s Private Biological Reserve is located in the environs of the Cerro de la Muerte in the Talamanca Mountain Range. It consists of Cloud Forest with elevations varying between 1,220 and 2,560 metres above sea level. The area is frequently visited by eco-tourists from around the world who come to enjoy the large diversity of plant life, including oak and laurel trees, orchids and bromelias. This animal life includes more than 170 species of birds – including the magnificent Quetzal – as well as numerous mammals, amphibians, and insects. (B)

Day 3:  Birding Tour
This morning you’ll meet your guide for a 5 hour birding tour.  You then transfer to the Caribbean foothills.  Rancho Naturalista is considered to be one of the finest birding lodges in Central America. Rancho is known for its peaceful forest surroundings, comfortable well-kept rooms, excellent meals, family style atmosphere, knowledgeable resident bird guide(s), extensive trail system in pre-montane rainforest, banana and hummingbird feeders for the birds, bird bathing pools, and a bird list for the area of over 400 species. (BD)

Day 4: Full day birdwatching with a local resident guide. Overnight at Rancho Naturalista (BLD)

Day 5: La Selva de Sarapiqui
Free morning and transfer to Sarapiqui area. La Selva was originally established in 1954 by Dr. Leslie Holdridge, as a farm dedicated to experimentation on mixed plantations for the improvement of natural resources management. It was purchased in 1968 by the Organization for Tropical Studies and declared a private biological reserve and station. Since then, it has become one of the most important sites in the world for research on tropical rain forest. Over 240 scientific papers are published yearly from research conducted at the site.  La Selva’s juxtaposition of protected ecosystems and state-of-the-art laboratory facilities is unique in the world’s wet tropics. An extensive trail system of more than 50 kilometers provides access to a wide range of terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Thousands of arthropod species are being currently recorded at La Selva, and more than 400 species of resident and migratory birds have been sighted in the reserve, representing almost half of Costa Rica’s bird species.(BLD)

Fday 6:
Full day birdwatching at La Selva with resident guide. Overnight OTS La Selva Biological Station (BLD)

Day 7: Transfer to Maquenque Lodge
Located on the Northern Territory of San Carlos near the Nicaraguan border this reserve, along with La Selva, forms part of the Costa Rican Birding Route.  The Costa Rican Bird Route is the first of its kind in Central America. Located in the northeastern region of Costa Rica, this eco-tourism project offers a variety of bird watching and nature tourism opportunities. The Bird Route consists nature reserves within 12 official sites, specifically chosen for their high avian diversity. This region also supports the last remaining habitat of the endangered Great Green Macaw (Ara ambigua), and the Costa Rican Bird Route offers the greatest viewing opportunities on the planet of this rare species as well as Scarlet Macaws. Excellent bungalow style  accommodations, surrounded by tropical rainforests, and bordering the Majestic San Carlos River, it has become famous for being a unique region for ecology, wildlife observation, unique birding tours. (B)

Day 8: Birdwatching Tour
Morning birdwatching tour. Free afternoon for optional tours: Overnight at Maquenque (B)

Day 9: San Jose
Free morning by the afternoon transfer back to San Jose. Overnight at Hotel Don Carlos. (B)

Day 10:
Departure transfer (B)

This is a full service semi-private tour program using local lodge  based guides and drivers . There may be other guests sharing the rides from time to time. Accommodation is in a variety of small, specialised lodges. OTS La Selva is the most basic being a research station, however meals are very good and the chance to meet students and scientists makes the stay well worth it for anyone interested in birds.

Price includes: 9 nights accommodation and taxes, meals as noted (BLD), all transfers, all guided tours as noted.

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.

Take a journey through Costa Rica’s diverse ecological and climatic zones. First travel to the dry lava flows, hotsprings and forest trails of Arenal Volcano National Park.  Drop deep into the lush Caribbean lowlands for a night in the rainforest before continuing to the east coast and the turtle nesting grounds of Tortuguero National Park.  This trip is a semi-independent tour with a mix of guided and optional tours.

Day 1 – Arrival San Jose
Arrive San Jose and transfer with driver to your hotel.  The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 2 – San Jose –Volcano National Park
Scenic drive with our driver/guide to Arenal Volcano, stop en route at La Paz Waterfall Gardens for an up close view at a system of 5 different waterfalls and also for lunch. After lunch continue to Arenal. From the Observatory, which is situated only 1.6 miles south of the volcano, visitors have an impressive view of this “giant which rumbles” and erupts with spectacular displays of vapor and lava. The Observatory is the only lodge situated within the Arenal Volcano National Park, which encompasses thousands of acres of pristine rainforest and teems with tropical birds and wildlife.  This offers the adventurous traveler front-row seating for one of the world’s most thrilling fireworks displays – a volcanic eruption. After having lain dormant for over 400 years, Arenal Volcano erupted violently on July 29, 1968, wreaking havoc on the local population and creating a “lava-scape” for miles around its base. Tropical flora and fauna abound about the Arenal lodge, and while here there are many self guided hiking opportunities as well as optional guided tours. Overnight at the Arenal Observatory Lodge or similar. (BD)

Day 3 – Arenal and Sarapiqui
This morning will be a guided hike from the lodge to see some of the forest and local effects of volcanic activity. Transfer from Arenal to Sarapiqui area.  You go from mountain terrain to lowland Caribbean rainforest. This is a lush warm land of  bromeliads, butterflies, bats, and birds. There are a number of things worth doing here and at your lodge have access to a butterfly “farm” with amazing blue morphos and walking trails along the river. (BD)
Day 4 –  Sarapiqui
Today we have some interesting and fun activities.  This morning you may want to take part in your choice of some optional activities:  river rafting trip on a fun Class l-ll (more mild) river, a thrilling canopy zipline tour through the forest, or a tour of the nearby organic pineapple plantation. You may also elect to just enjoy a little rest time at the pool or try tubing along the river that goes past the lodge. Later this afternoon you will be taken to La Tirmbina Nature reserve for their very interesting  Origins of Chocolate Tour and then dinner. After dinner, a naturalist from the reserve will do a show and tell about the really amazing nightlife in the rainforest. (BD)

Day 5 – Sarapiqui – Tortuguero National Park
This morning you’ll transfer by land to a coastal estuary for a boat trip to Tortuguero.  Here you will be taken to your lodge.  This area exists to protect the most important breeding areas in Costa Rica for marine turtles.  Of the 8 worldwide species, 4 nest here.  You can see leatherback turtles between April and June and green turtles from July to mid October.  Tropical wildlife is incredibly abundant and the area is a major migratory bird route for North American birds. (BLD)

Optional Turtle Nesting Tour at night, approximately US $30.00 per person.

Day 6 – Tortuguero National Park
This morning you will board one the flat bottom boats to explore the watery creeks and canals that make up the highly productive coastal zone of the Caribbean lowlands with an expert guide.  In this trip you will see an incredible assortment of tropical wildlife before returning to your lodge.  Balance of day is free, you might want to take a trip to the local village and meet some of the people of Tortuguero.  (BLD)

Day 7 – Tortuguero – San Jose
This morning you may take another  included tour with the naturalists into the creeks before returning to the lodge for a boat back to main dock and then a ground transfer back to San Jose and your hotel.  (B)

Day 8 – Depart San Jose
Departure transfer to International Airport.  (B)

Special Package Features:
All transfers with a private or semi-private van and driver.
All accommodation (3-4 green leaf rating)
7 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 6 Dinners
Guided walks and tours as described.
****B (breakfast), L (lunch), BL (box lunch, D (dinner)

On this journey you will see Panama’s stunning beaches, experience an unforgettable encounter with the Chocoe-Embera Indians, then hike the mountains of Chiriqui to observe the elusive, long-tailed Quetzal. The exotic Bocas del Toro Archipelago is located in the Caribbean of West Panama near the border with Costa Rica. It is a diver and outdoor lover’s paradise with unspoiled coral reefs, deep-sea fishing and boating, kayaking, snorkeling and long sandy deserted beaches.  This package introduces you to the very best of Panama’s diverse geography and cultures.

Day 1: Panama City, arrival and transfer.

Day 2: Chagres National Park, visit Chocoe-Embera people. After breakfast visit a paradise found in its purest form. This tour leaves Panama City at 8:30 AM and begins with a ride in a “piragua” (a native boat) following the route commonly used by the Indians for their daily transport along the Chagres River. Then hike through the forest with a local indigenous guide and an expert who will explain the botanical aspects of the trail and the culture of this authentic Chocoe-Embera village. In the village, members of the community will share their culture through dances, rituals, food, etc. You will have the opportunity to partake in “jagua” body painting with vegetable ink. Arrival back to Panama City is estimated at 4:00 PM.  BL

Day 3: Fly to David, visit Chiquiri cloudforest coffee plantation and stay in private estate farm. Finca Lerida is a 10 minute drive from the center of Boquete and located in a exclusive private nature reserve at an altitude ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level. This unique ecolodge is a preferred destination for visitors interested in exploring rich flora and fauna, for birders, nature photographers and nature lovers.The ecolodge has 11 very comfortable double rooms with private bath, each with its own porch overlooking the untouched forests of the highland and the surrounding coffee plantation. Each room is individually decorated and named after the native birds found on the property. BLD

Day 4: Walking in the clouds-near Boquete and Baru volcano. This rarely visited area allows even casual birdwatchers to enjoy the chance of seeing the hard to find quetzales.  There are many other bird species as well and beautiful orchids, heliconia dn bromeliads. BLD

Day 5: Transfer to Bocas del Toro on the Caribbean, transfer to nature lodge at Punta Vieja on Bastimentos island. Here you will experience the Afro-Panamanian culture and the Teribe indigenous group. Between jungle and sea, Al Natural Resort has created a comfortable and private retreat, perfectly integrated into the lush tropical environment of Isla Bastimentos.
This resort elegantly combines the ancestral craftsmanship of the Ngobe-bugle Indians with new technologies that allow us to use energy from the sun and limit our impact on the ecosystem.

In order to provide each guest with maximum privacy, and to maintain an intimate setting for the resort, there are only nine bungalows. All the bungalows are stilt houses and provide occupants with uninterrupted views of the sea and surrounding flora and fauna. BLD

Day 6: Visit the Zapatillas Cays, famous for beautiful beaches and protected reefs.  Glide through the mysterious mangrove forest in a cayuco (indigenous canoe). BLD

Day 7: Return flight to Panama City,

Day 8: Transfer and flight out.

This is tour that operates with private driver guide with a minimum of 2 passengers. You can take it year round, any day of the year. Group discounts with 6 or more people travelling together.

Day 1: Quito

Upon arrival, we meet and transfer you to your 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: Quito

Today we’ll continue touring the highlands area, taking a scenic route and return to Quito for the night. (BL)

Day 7: Today you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.

 

AREQUIPA CITY TOUR- COLCA CANYON HOTSPRINGS & CONDORS – LAKE TITICACA FLOATING ISLANDS – CUSCO INCA CAPITAL – SACRED VALLEY –PISAC MARKET- OLLANTAYTAMBO – FULL MACHU PICCHU TOUR – CUSCO

This trip is ideal for travellers looking to experience the best of Southern Peru in just eleven days plus have the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu. There are both set departures where you can join in with a group about once per month and private departures for 2 or more that can operate any day.

We begin our journey in the ‘White City’ of Arequipa in Southern Peru dominated by the stunning conical “El Misti” mountain. At 2600m Arequipa is the ideal place to begin our acclimatisation to the rarefied air of the Andes. One can explore Arequipa’s fine Plaza, the ice mummy museum or visit the many alpaca textile shops. We then board a private minibus and head off through remote villages to the impressive Colca canyon and the delightful Colca Lodge. Here we have the chance to see Condors over one of the world’s deepest canyons, hike to local ruins or just relax in some of the finest hot-springs imaginable.

A spectacular drive through the altiplano brings us to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca.  This busy lakeside town is the base for our day trip on Lake Titicaca. We take a private express boat to visit the floating reed islands of Uros and Taquile Island. These are renowned for their ancient way of life, weavings and spectacular views of the lake.

We then take one of the World’s classic railway journeys* from Puno across the high plains to Cusco. We spend a day exploring Cusco, the former Inca Capital – a wonderful place to explore full of culture, history, good restaurants and fun nightlife.

Now fully acclimatised, our next adventure takes us to the local ruins surrounding Cusco and through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing local markets and the Inca Fortress town of Ollantaytambo, before arriving at the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu. After a night in the colourful town of Aguas Calientes, we spend a whole day exploring the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu. The return to Cusco is by luxury train and bus with a final free day for any last minute sightseeing and souvenir hunting before heading back to the airport for your ongoing flight.

Those with more time should consider adding on our Amazon Rainforest Jungle Extension.

* Please note: the train only operates four times a week, there is a luxury bus alternative on the other days.

DETAILED ITINERARY

For those requiring Lima hotel, airport transfers and internal flight services within Peru, please contact us for best options and availability.

DAY 1: AREQUIPA: You will meet your guide on arrival off your flight to the “White City” of Arequipa. This is the ideal place to start acclimatizing to the rarefied air of the Andes and a beautiful city to explore. Arequipa boasts a magnificent marble Plaza de Armas, quaint old town streets, the picturesque Santa Catalina Monastery (included in your tour) and Juanita the Ice maiden museum (optional). Alpaca wool is Arequipa’s finest export and there are plenty of opportunities for treating yourself to some stunning textiles here. (B)

DAY 2: AREQUIPA TO COLCA CANYON: Driving out of Arequipa we enjoy spectacular views of the mountains surrounding the city before climbing high into the Andes and descending into the amazing Colca canyon. The Colca canyon is one of the World’s deepest canyons and is home to Condors and a fascinating local culture, totally different from any other place you will visit on this trip. We over night in the charming Colca lodge. Soaking in the World class hot-springs is the prime activity here, closely followed by exploring the lodge’s restaurant, bar or games room. Dinner can be taken either a la carte or try their delicious Alpandina buffet to sample Peru’s finest. (B,L)

DAY 3: CRUZ DEL CONDOR AND COLCA CANYON: The private guide and minibus are at your disposal for the day. An early morning drive to Cruz del Condor is recommended in search of one of the world’s largest birds, the condor, which nest in the cliffs of one of the world’s deepest canyons (approx. 3,400m deep). Hiking to near-by ruins and a tour of the unique native culture and weavings in the area are also available activities. On return to the lodge plenty of time is left for just relaxing in the hot springs, taking advantage of the amazing spa facilities (the hot-rock massage is recommended) or book  up more hiking, horse riding, biking or fishing trip at the in house adventure agency. (B,L)

DAY 4: COLCA CANYON, SILUSTANI AND PUNO / LAKE TITICACA: A spectacular drive through the high Andes, passing beautiful lakes, Vicuña herds and huge vistas as we travel on a newly asphalted road to Juliaca and on to our destination of Puno. En route we can take a visit to Silustani ruins, whose fascinating circular burial chambers pre-date the Incas. The amazing stone work of this early civilisation was obviously a strong influence on the famous Inca stone masons.

In Puno we check into our hotel and can explore this interesting town and barter for locally hand-knitted woollen goods. (B,L)

DAY 5: LAKE TITICACA – UROS AND TAQUILE: Lake Titicaca is a photographer’s dream, its clear sapphire water and the astounding blue skies are mesmerizing. A full day’s boat trip with your own private guide and shared rapid boat ensure you see all the sights in safety and style. The famous floating reed islands of Uros and the ancient traditions and weavings of Taquille Island are explained and viewed at your leisure. We have lunch in a typical restaurant before returning to Puno and transferring back to your Hotel (B,L)

DAY 6: ORIENT EXPRESS TRAIN TO CUSCO: Today we board the luxury all day train from Puno to Cusco. This classic Orient Express train journey, repeatedly voted “one of the top ten railway journeys of the world” cuts across the formidable Peruvian Altiplano, whose high plains are rich with llama herds, green Ibises and mountain villages where life is harsh but the resilient locals keep their communities with pride and good humour. On arrival at Cusco train station we transfer to your hotel. This evening we stretch our legs around the spectacular Plaza de Armas and dine in one of the many excellent restaurants as we begin to explore the fascinating city of Cusco. Please note: the train only operates four times a week, there is a luxury bus alternative on the other days. (B,L)

DAY 7: CUSCO LOCAL RUINS: Your guide and minibus are at your disposal for the day to explore Cusco and its outlying ruins. A 0900 pick up for the ten kilometre drive out of Cusco at Inca ruin of Tambo Machay. This is popularly called the Inca’s Bath due to its finely preserved waterfalls, carefully diverted through fine stone channels. The Incas acknowledged water as one of the principal elements of life and revered it accordingly.

A few hundred metres back towards Cusco we visit the site of Puca Pucara. This delightful ruin on a small prominence is believed not to be the ’red fort’ its name suggest but a ‘Tambo’ – a rest house for travelling animals, goods and travellers. We now cut across country following the old Inca road from Cusco to Pisac. The traditional farming methods and highly adapted Andean crops are a treat to see still functioning.

With Cusco now in our sights we visit the fascinating Q’enko. This ‘waca’ contains some of the finest examples of Inca carvings in-situ. The eroded limestone fissures have been artfully carved into zigzag channels (from where Q’enko derives its name), pumas, condors, snakes and houses. Bountiful Mummy Niches in the caves, an amphitheatre and the central phallic column all add to the mystery of its multi-functional use. After a picnic lunch we visit our final and most stunning ruin is the extensive Sacsayhuaman. Although the smaller stones of Sacsayhuaman were used to build modern day Cusco, the remaining stones are up to 8.5m high and weigh over 360 tones. The distinctive zigzag ramparts that form are attributed to being Puma teeth, lightening and also fortification. This major centre obviously had many functions with storehouses, administration buildings, reservoir and play area. It was also site of a crucial battle between the Incas and the Spanish. With time and energy permitting we head down to San Cristobal church built on top of Inca Manco Capac’s Palace and a fantastic view point of Cusco. Overnight in Cusco Hotel. (B, L)

DAY 8: SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS TO MACHU PICCHU: Your guide and minibus are again at your disposal for the day. An early pick up for the thirty two kilometre drive out of Cusco to the picturesque Andean village of Pisac. The village is famous for its Sunday market and superb Artisan stalls. Old Pisac ruins have much to explore with a circular hike along a well defined through Royal buildings, look-outs, terraces, tunnels and irrigation channels before returning on another good trail to the bus. After lunch near Urubamba, a short drive down the Sacred Valley of the Incas brings us to Ollantaytambo, site of the last battle between Incas and Spanish before the remaining Incas rebels fled into the jungles of Vilcabamba. In this well-preserved village and ruins you can still feel the true magic of the Incas.  Heading to the train station, we take the late afternoon train down the Urubamba River gorge to Machu Picchu town (formally known as Aguas Calientes and check into our hotel for the night. (B,L)

Note: If you wish to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu this could be added to the trip here.

DAY 9: MACHU PICCHU GUIDED TOUR: Early this morning we set off to the fabled “Lost City of the Incas- Machu Picchu”. A short bus ride takes you direct to the ruins (or hike). Once there your guide gives you an extensive walking tour of the ruin and explains the fascinating history of the Incas to you. If time permits you may wish to explore further to the Inca bridge, walk back up the Inca Trail to the sun gate or try the strenuous climb to the top of Huayna Picchu for an awe-inspiring Condor’s eye view of Machu Picchu.  Some may prefer to just relax and take in the awesome location. We return to Aguas Calientes from where we catch the afternoon train return and bus back to Cusco. If we have the energy we can then explore Cusco’s excellent nightlife. (B)

DAY 10: CUSCO: A free day to explore Cusco. From the Plaza de Armas, we suggest a visit to the the Qoricancha Sun Temple, this sacred Inca site was the centre of the Inca Empire Sun-Worship. It had temples for the sun, moon, stars and lightening. There was so much gold, silver and jewels it was said the Spanish took three months to melt all the treasures down. Also the impressive Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas with its famous paintings of Cusco’s great city fire and the last supper where Jesus is eating Guinea pig.  For those looking to relax there are countless excellent bars and cafes overlooking the Plaza de Armas and plenty of bargain hunting to do in the artisan markets.  (B)

DAY 11: TRANSFER TO AIRPORT FOR ONGOING FLIGHTS: Today, we transfer to Cusco airport in time for your internal and international flights home. (B)

Or for those with more time consider one or more of our Excellent Extensions to the Amazon Rainforest, Nazca and the Ballestas islands or more adventures by bike, foot, canoe, raft or horse. Please contact us for more details.

WE PROVIDE: All airport transfers, private vehicle transport and all train/bus tickets. Entrance fees to Sta Catalina monastery, Colca Canyon, Silustani ruins, Taquile island, the Inca ruins surrounding Cusco, Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu. Three registered, English-speaking, local guides. Extensive First-aid kit & oxygen. A guided tour in Machu Picchu. A bus transfers between the ruins, Transport from Machu Picchu to your hotel in Cusco will be on a train service and bus transfer. Quality  3* accommodation in Arequipa, Colca, Puno and Cusco, Aguas Calientes. All meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).

NOT INCLUDED: National or International flights, personal belongings, airport taxes ($6 local, $31 international), personal expenses, travel insurance and tips.

Lima hotels, airport transfers, day rooms, tours and all internal flights are not included but can also be organised and quoted for on request.

Please Note: The price varies according to season, style and availability of accommodations. Please contact us for a free price quote. Groups  of 6 and families are eligible for special rates.