rainbow tours latin

Top 20destinations in Latin America

A journey through Patagonia

Hidden corners in Colombia & Guyana

Trekking the Inca Trail

Family-friendly Central America

Cruising to Antarctica

Layden House

76-86 Turnmill Street

London EC1M 5QU

Tel: 020 7666 1260www.rainbowtours.co.ukEmail: [email protected]

ABTA No.Y1152

Latin Am

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Western and Oriental Travel LimitedThe COLLeCTiOn

Luxury india

with Sri Lanka, Bhutan & nepal

tel: 020 7666 1212

www.WandOtravel.com

WOrLdWide FamiLy hOLidayS mediterranean, indian Ocean, Caribbean, Far east, africa,

north america, Latin america, india

tel: 020 7666 1230

BeaCheS & reTreaTS Caribbean, Far east, indian

Ocean, arabian Gulf & europe

tel: 020 7666 1234

at Western & Oriental, we are dedicated to providing exemplary luxury tailor-made holidays. Our wide range of destinations includes the stunning indian Ocean, exotic Far east, mystical india and the mediterranean.

auThenTiC ranCh hOLidayS Cattle drives

& Whitewater rafting

tel: 0207 666 1217

www.regent-holidays.co.uk

iceland & Greenland

tel: 020 7666 1290

russia & the alternative east

tel: 0117 921 1711

Regent Holidays is sister company to Western & Oriental and Rainbow tours, and as a specialist tour and travel company they offer holidays and city breaks in destinations as diverse as russia, iceland, Kosovo, mongolia and Korea.

City Breaks in eastern europe & beyond

tel: 0117 921 1711

www.rainbowtours.co.uk

africa & madagascar

tel: 020 7666 1250

Known as africa and madagascar specialists, we have been organising award-winning holidays to this region since 1997, and now also offer a comprehensive programme of tailor-made and small group tours to Latin america.

Latin america

tel: 020 7666 1260

Experience the world in colour

It’s probably no surprise that we love travel. For us though it has to be a certain type of travel – journeys that leave the natural beauty of the destinations we visit unchanged, and where you really get to experience and understand other people and their cultures.

020 7666 1260www.rainbowtours.co.uk

6 A journey through PatagoniaTravel writer Nick Boulos journeys to the very end of the world

23 Chilean WinesThe Wine Detective reports on Chile’s exciting wine portfolio

46 The Inca TrailFormer guide, Sonia Rojas, hikes the classic route to Machu Picchu

84 Central America: My ultimate destinationWell-travelled throughout the region, Simon Forster explains his love affair with Central America

89 Mayan MexicoGuide Hector Gonzalez Cadena talks about his favourite Mayan ruins

114 Cruising to AntarcticaWendy Driver explores the polar regions

Your financial protection The air holiday packages in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority, any packages without flights are covered by ABTA. Our ATOL number is 10417 and our ABTA number is Y1152. Please see our booking conditions for more information

Western and Oriental Travel Limited is the parent company of Rainbow Tours, Western & Oriental and Regent Holidays

1 Call 020 7666 1260 | rainbowtours.co.uk | Visit your local travel agent

Responsible TourismPages 4-5

South America 8 Argentina10 Buenos Aires12 Iguassu & the Iberà Wetlands13 Mendoza & Wine Country14 Gaucho Life16 Patagonia

20 Chile 22 Santiago & Valparaiso24 The Atacama25 Lakes & Glaciers26 Patagonia, Torres del Paine

30 Brazil 32 Rio & the beaches34 Salvador & Bahia35 Iguassu Falls36 The Amazon Rainforest37 The Pantanal

40 Peru42 Lima & Excursions43 Cuzco44 Machu Picchu48 The Sacred Valley49 Lake Titicaca50 Southern Peru51 Peruvian Amazon

54 Bolivia 56 Bolivian Towns57 Spectacular Southern Bolivia

58 Ecuador 60 Quito & Otavalo61 The Avenue of the Volcanoes and Cuenca62 Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest & Cloud Forest

64 The Galapagos Islands 66 Galapagos Cruising

70 Colombia 72 Bogota & the Coffee Region74 Caribbean Coastline

76 Venezuela 78 Canaima National Park & the Caribbean Coast

80 Guyana 82 Iwokrama & Giant River Otter Orphanage

Central America86 Mexico 88 Mexico City & Oaxaca90 Riviera Maya – Yucatan Peninsula91 The Copper Canyon & Baja California

94 Guatemala, Belize & Honduras96 Guatemala’s Highlands & Lake Atitlan97 Tikal & the Peten Jungle98 Mayan ruins in Honduras & Belize99 Beaches & diving on Belize’s Caribbean Coast

102 Costa Rica 104 Arenal Volcano & the Monteverde Cloud Forest106 Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast

108 Nicaragua & Panama110 Nicaragua111 Panama

Antarctica & the Falklands114 Antarctica cruise116 Antarctica117 The Falkland Islands

118 Know before you book120 Booking Conditions121 Western and Oriental Travel Limited

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Your choice inLatin America

Every trip to Latin America is special. For many people, it genuinely is a once in a lifetime experience and we take

this responsibility very seriously by doing all we can to make sure that every holiday we shape and organise lives up to the highest expectations.

It’s always best to go with someone who really knows the place, whether you want to live like a local in Buenos Aries, sample characterful reds on the Maipo Wine Route or feel the hairs on the back of your neck tingle when you catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.

Our firsthand knowledge from Mexico and the small Central American countries all the way through South America to Antarctica comes from years of travel across this incredible continent ourselves, so we are perfectly placed to address every last detail of your trip.

We can confidently take you to world-renowned highlights like Rio, the Galapagos and Patagonia but also to the less visited corners such as Ecuador’s Amazon and Colombia’s Tayrona National Park. Some of the world’s most breathtaking journeys are in Latin America; the overland journey by 4WD from Chile to the blinding white Uyuni

Salt Flats in Bolivia or the train ride through Mexico’s Copper Canyon are just two that come to mind.

Latin America appeals to anyone with a sense of adventure but first time visitors are often surprised that travel itself is relatively easy throughout the region. There are many well-maintained road networks with good buses or private transfers, regular flights within and between countries and a good train service.

We offer tailor-made holidays that can include anything from a B&B to a 5-star mountain lodge or a Phillipe Stark hotel, as well as small group tours that visit all the top highlights. There are great options for families too, such as action packed eco-conscious Costa Rica or Mexico’s beaches and Mayan cultures.

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Brochure pricing guide We have included prices for accommodation in the brochure so that readers can compare across a range of properties. Prices are estimated as ‘per person per night sharing’ and are shown as a low to mid season rate, or as a package where there is a minimum stay. Always ask us for a quote for the period in which you want to travel.

Tayrona National Park, Colombia

AtlanticOcean

PacificOcean

Caribbean Sea

Gulf ofMexico

BrazilPeru

Bolivia

Colombia

Uruguay

Venezuela

Falkland Islands

South Georgia

Antarctic Peninsula

Paraguay

Chile

Argentina

Galapagos Islands

Easter Island

Ecuador

Panama

Guyana

Costa Rica

Nicaragua

Honduras

Guatemala

Mexico

Belize

“Add some of the world’s most iconic sights to its balmy tropical beaches and fascinating antiquities, and it’s

easy to see why Latin America is topping people’s travel lists.”

Kerry Golds, Managing DirectorWestern and Oriental Travel Ltd


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What is responsible tourism?

Travelling responsibly can help to sustain traditional ways of life for indigenous communities in the destinations you visit. The Amerindian Group Tour in Guyana, for example, was set up through a collaboration between the local Amerindian communities and our partner Wilderness Explorers. These indigenous communities have opened their Guyanan rainforest homes to offer a unique experience for visitors, providing an important income at local level.

Responsible tourism is a simple concept, but one that can change lives. It is about trying to create as much benefit as possible for the countries we visit, whilst doing our best to limit the environmental impact of our travels.

The clearest method of helping local people is to ensure that,

whenever possible, the money we spend remains in the host country. One important way of achieving this is, where possible to stay in hotels that are locally owned, employ local workers, pay them appropriate wages and buy as much produce locally as possible.

Rainbow Tours goes to great lengths to offer a programme with strong responsible tourism credentials. For example, Costa Rica has an abundance of high-quality accommodation operating under strict environmental guidelines. The lodges we use in the Ecuadorian Amazon have a close relationship with the indigenous population, giving guests the opportunity to learn about, and even experience, traditional tribal life.

Becoming an activity provider can also be a great way for local communities to earn an income

from tourism. For example, in the Sacred Valley in Peru we can arrange a half day with an indigenous community - having lunch, talking to the families and playing football with the kids. In return for their hospitality, we pay the community.

Rainbow Tours’ overriding aim is to provide the holidays that you want and that meet your needs. We have no intention of being overbearing in promoting responsible tourism, but we do believe that by offering hotels that assist and work with local communities and have sound environmental practices, everyone is better off.

We can help organise a trip that both suits your needs and utilises responsibly run hotels and activities. At the same time, you can help yourself to be a responsible traveller by following these common-sense guidelines:

• Eat out locally as much as possible

• Pay for local guides or porters wherever possible. You will be helping them financially, and they will often provide you with invaluable insights that you will not pick up otherwise

• Buy locally made souvenirs

• Learn a little of the local customs and language. And bear in mind that it may not always be appropriate to take pictures of people or certain cultural situations

• Try to visit as many national parks and reserves as possible. Your entrance fees will contribute to the success of the projects and the survival of the environments.

Simon Forster, Rainbow Tours Product Manager Latin America


What is responsible tourism?

Journey to the very end of the world

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Journey to the very end of the world

Travel writer Nick Boulos visited Patagonia and says “There’s something rather thrilling about journeying to the very end of the world; the allure of the unknown, the promise of wild landscapes and scenes of remote grandeur.

Descending from the skies, I gazed below to a world

where soaring peaks, dark and jagged, plummet into shallow waters and glaciers are the size of cities. Welcome to Patagonia.

Despite being so remote, Patagonia - the southern stretches of Argentina and Chile - is surprisingly easy to get to. After a short three-hour flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, I was standing amongst some of the finest scenery known to man. Ushuaia, famed for being the southernmost city in the world and gateway to Antarctica, is the perfect introduction to Patagonia.

Dramatically framed by the snow-capped Andes and the Beagle Channel, it’s surrounded by wildlife and nature with penguin colonies and the iconic Tierra del Fuego National Park on its doorstep.

Travelling north, I became transfixed at the Perito Moreno glacier, the main attraction at Los Glaciares National Park. Its towering frozen plains and electrifying blue crevices that tumble into the icy depths

of Lake Argentino continue as far as the eye can see. So vast, in fact, the glacier is the same size as Argentina’s capital.

Getting around Patagonia is a doddle too. Like much of South America, the region is blessed with a network of efficient and comfortable buses. The shifting scenery beyond the window will hold you captive as mountains give way to infinite flat steppes with scatterings of grazing guanacos. Above, Andean condors circle in wide swoops.

Across the border in Chile, things don’t get any less impressive with legendary natural wonders at every turn. Exploring the unspoilt landscapes of Torres del Paine and hiking to Mount Fitzroy are experiences that will stay with you long after you return home, much like Patagonia itself.”

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Argentina

Argentina is vast, stretching almost 3,500 kilometres from its northern border with Bolivia to the tip

of South America. It is most commonly associated with sensuous tango dancing, passionate football and impressive steaks, but offers much else besides.

Most visits rightly include several days in the capital, Buenos Aires, where the influence of European settlers can be seen in much of the architecture. This, together with gourmet restaurants and old-world cafés, designer shopping and outdoor markets, plus a buzzing nightlife - take in a tango show - make BA a thoroughly enjoyable metropolis.

With its dramatic landscapes, cosmopolitan cities and lively culture, Argentina is a traveller’s delight. From the glaciers of Patagonia and elegant boulevards of Buenos Aires to soaring Andean mountains, the dusty heat of the pampas and jungles in the north, it is a country of immense beauty.

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BuenosAires

Bariloche

El Calafate

Salta

Ushuaia

Bolivia

Paraguay

Argentina

Uruguay

Brazil

IguassuFalls

Chile

Cordoba

Mendoza

Peninsula Valdes

The Pampas

Patagonia

Tierra del Fuego

To the south, the Valdes Peninsula has a prolific marine life - highlights include colonies of penguins, elephant seals and Southern Right whales. The landscape here is flat, but as you head over towards the Andes you’ll reach a Patagonian area of jagged mountain peaks and magnificent glaciers - the Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the continent’s greatest natural wonders.

You can head north to Fitzroy National Park, a great region for trekking. Or you can fly south to Ushuaia in the evocatively named Tierra del Fuego, or Land of Fire, from where you can take a cruise on the Beagle Channel, board an expedition boat to Antarctica or sail through straits and channels via Cape Horn to Chile.

The Andes form a natural border between Argentina and Chile. An ideal base from which to explore this mountain region is Bariloche, in the impossibly scenic Lake District. There are over 20 beautiful lakes on the Argentine side alone.

Further north, you can visit Mendoza, where a good climate and rich soils combine to produce exceptional vineyards. Stay in town or on a nearby vineyard and sample some of Argentina’s best wines. Travel on to Córdoba for a few nights on an estancia - a working ranch - where you can ride the great open spaces and watch gauchos at work.The landscape changes to desert

When to goCovering a large distance, Argentina can be visited all year round. However, the southern half of the country is best visited between October and April, with the peak months being December to February. Even in these months the weather can be unpredictable. The northwest of the country is best visited between April and December when the weather is characterised by sunny days. The Iguassu Falls are an all year round destination and can become very hot and humid between December and April, but cooler at other times of the year.

Getting there The main entry point by air into Argentina is Buenos Aires. British Airways operates a direct service from London Heathrow. Several European and South American airlines, such as TAM Airlines, fly to Buenos Aires via their home hubs.

GMT: -3 hours

Visas British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Argentina.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Argentina.

Argentina

in the northwest towards Salta. See salt flats, the amazing Hill of the Seven Colours and the cactus-filled Humahuaca Gorge, before heading northeast to the thundering Iguassu Falls on the Argentinian/Brazilian border.

Recommended things to do: Buenos Aires is well worth a three-night stay Experience the wildlife of the Iberá Wetlands Gaze over the mighty Iguassu Falls Perito Moreno Glacier is truly awe-inspiring Visit Argentina’s world famous wineries

Call 020 7666 1260 | rainbowtours.co.uk | Visit your local travel agent 9

The tango is synonymous with Argentina and no visitor to Buenos Aires should leave the city without attending a show. A favourite venue is Esquina Carlos Gardel, named after one of the most famous figures in the history of tango. Following a three course dinner at this historic theatre, sit back and admire Buenos Aires’ finest tango performers dancing their sensuous and sophisticated moves, accompanied by an orchestra of violins, piano, double bass and bandoneons.

Argentina’s capital city is commonly known as the Paris of South America, with its classic architecture, plazas, fountains and wide boulevards.

It is also a fantastic city from which to get a real feel for Argentinean culture and lifestyles, with cafés and

steakhouses serving mouthwatering prime cuts of beef, interesting markets, museums and galleries.

The city is split into very different and unique neighbourhoods. The areas of most interest to visitors include the old port district of La Boca, the trend setting shops and restaurants of Palermo, the modern skyline of Puerto Madero, the Parisianesque architecture of Recoleta and the Art Deco cafés and restaurants of Retiro.

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Buenos Aires


Argentina

Buenos AiresThings to do in Buenos Aires: See a tango show Visit La Boca Eat steak Go to a football match Take a day trip to Colonia in Uruguay

Alvear Palace

From £185B/B

When it comes to luxury, the Alvear Palace has it in spades. One of the most famous hotels in Latin America, the Alvear Palace with its majestic Louis XV classical style is renowned for tradition, elegance and hospitality. Located in the heart of Recoleta and surrounded by the finest shops of the city, the hotel has 197 rooms and suites. In our opinion, no other hotel in Buenos Aires compares to the Alvear in terms of style and ambience.

Faena Hotel & Universe

From £160B/B

The Faena is a chic, luxurious hotel that offers the last word in ultra-stylish design from Philippe Starck. The hotel is unashamedly modern with an outdoor pool in a terraced garden, stunning spa and great restaurant facilities. The hotel has its own tango show, Rojo Tango, which is an intimate show in one of the smaller tango locations that successfully recreates a 1940s ‘underworld’ nightclub atmosphere. The hotel is located in the restored dock area of Puerto Madero.

Legado Mitico

From £95B/B

A stay in the Legado Mitico gives visitors a unique and highly enjoyable insight into the country’s history. Part of the fun of staying here is choosing one of the 11 individually decorated rooms, inspired by the lives of famous Argentineans such as Che Guevara, Eva Perón and Benito Quinquela Martín. The impressive library is stocked with Argentinean literature as well as useful information for visitors. Located in the bohemian Palermo Viejo district, this hotel oozes old world style.

Sofitel Buenos Aires

From £115B/B

Situated close to the impressive Plaza San Martin, the Sofitel Buenos Aires is an excellent mix of French savoir-faire and Argentine tradition. The building is a beautiful example of 1920s Art Deco architecture, with 172 rooms and suites decorated attractively in contemporary style. The restaurant and bars provide a relaxed setting for socialising and serve refined French cuisine as well as the latest in fusion dishes from around the world.

Mine Hotel

From £65B/B

Located in the heart of the bohemian Palermo Soho neighbourhood, Mine Hotel is a 20-room boutique hotel well positioned for sightseeing attractions like Plaza de Mayo, and for exploring the local art galleries, shops and cafés. The hotel has a chic and modern décor, using vivid colours and patterns to great effect, and the rooms are light and airy. Cocina, the in-house restaurant, serves gourmet Mediterranean cuisine and there is an outdoor pool and a pleasant garden.

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La Aldea de la Selva

From £55B/B

Located just outside the town of Puerto Iguassu, La Aldea de la Selva has been built in complete harmony with the surrounding sub-tropical rainforest, creating a serene and peaceful base for exploring the Iguassu Falls. Constructed from local wood, all the rooms have a balcony and comfy hammock, and are linked to the main lodge by terraces and hanging bridges. The hotel also offers guided rainforest tours, canopy walks, bird-watching and abseiling, or simply choose to relax by one of the three pools.

Posada Puerto Bemberg

From £95B/B

Just a 40 minute drive to the Iguassu Falls, the Posada is secluded in miles of pristine and tranquil rainforest. Each of the 14 rooms is uniquely decorated and we love the traditional rustic styling, original artifacts and fantastic views of the surrounding jungle. Local cuisine is served in the dining room or alfresco with delicious wines from their excellent Argentinean cellar. Rainforest treks and boats trips on the Parana River to nearby waterfalls are just some of the activities on offer.

Estancia Rincón de Socorro

From £116B/B

This refined, eco-tourist estancia is a 12,000 hectare former cattle ranch, now a dedicated nature reserve, in the Iberá Wetlands. There are just three small bungalows and six rooms in the main house, which also has a screened verandah sitting room and a large dining room where guests enjoy superb wines and delicious free-range meat. Enjoy Argentine barbecues lazing by the pool and explore the Iberá Wetlands by canoe or on horseback.

Iguassu & the Iberá Wetlands

Situated in northern Argentina, Iguassu and the Iberà Wetlands

bring together one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders with stunning wildlife. The Iguassu Falls lie on the border between Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay and consist of a network of 275 different waterfalls spanning an area 3km wide. They have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986 and are a must see when visiting Argentina. To the south of Iguassu the Iberá Wetlands are the second largest in South America – the largest wetlands being Brazil’s Pantanal – and are home to an abundance of wildlife, including anacondas, capybaras, cayman, marsh deer, howler monkeys and giant storks.

Hotels can arrange fishing trips for keen anglers.


Argentina

Cavas Wine Lodge

From £215B/B

Delightfully situated in the foothills of the snow-capped Andes and at the heart of 35 acres of fertile, green vineyards, Cavas Wine Lodge is just 30 minutes’ south of Mendoza. There are just 14 spacious rooms, all with views of the Andes, each with its own plunge pool and private terrace. The lodge has an outstanding wine cellar showcasing 250 different wines from the Mendoza region, where you can enjoy a tasting session with the sommelier or a private dinner.

Club Tapiz, Mendoza

From £60B/B

A short distance from Mendoza, charming Club Tapiz was built in 1890 and is surrounded by ten hectares of vineyards. The elegant main house, comprising just seven rooms, has been restored, preserving the Renaissance-style villa. A few metres from the house is an old winery which produces artisan wines; you can also borrow a bicycle to explore nearby bodegas. Relax by the pool or in the small spa, admire the views of the Andes and enjoy local cuisine in the sophisticated restaurant.

Mendoza & Wine Country

For wine lovers looking for something a little different, try

a combination of the remarkable Salta and Cafayate Wineries. Founded in 1582, Salta is one of Argentina’s most attractive cities, retaining much of its colonial charm and a great base from which to explore the northwest.

Indigenous villages are much more common in this remote part of Argentina. From here you can visit the wineries at Cafayate or take a 4WD expedition to the spectacular Humahuaca gorge, that leads high up into the Andes towards the Atacama desert.

Things to do in Iguassu & Mendoza: Canoe in the Iberá Wetlands Private tour of Iguassu Falls Fishing trips in the wetlands Wine-tasting Bike tour of the wineries

With altitudes ranging from 450m to 1100m and a variety

of microclimates, it is no surprise that Mendoza is the wine capital of Argentina. Practise your wine-tasting skills at any one of the well-known wineries in the region, or spend a day or two exploring the city of Mendoza with its tree-lined avenues and pretty squares. From Mendoza, you can travel overland through the Andes on a wonderfully scenic drive to Santiago in Chile.

Estancias and ranch life are the backbone of Argentinean culture and history. In most areas of the country you can find ranches, rearing top-quality beef using traditional methods.

The ranches here are called estancias and the soul of these working ranches are the

cowboys, or gauchos. It is possible to stay on estancias, where horse riding is a major activity, and ride with the gauchos on the ranch, learning more about their daily life. Those who don’t ride will find that there are plenty of other fun activities to keep them busy.

Gaucho Life

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Argentina

Estancia el Ombú de Areco

From £105B/B

Just an hour from Buenos Aires, Estancia el Ombú is a nineteenth century Italian-style farmhouse with just nine guest rooms. Immerse yourself as much or as little as you wish in the life of a working estancia, taking part in the stock-rearing activities, including milking and driving cattle. Explore the 300-hectare grounds on foot or, accompanied by seasoned gauchos, on one of the 38 horses that are part of the working drove. Horse drawn carriages, swimming and bird-watching are also available.

Estancia Huechahue

From £255All inclusive

Enjoy outdoor life in northern Patagonia by spending a few days at Huechahue, a working estancia just 30 minutes from San Martin de los Andes and within easy access of Bariloche. Accommodation is very comfortable, comprising eight twin-bed rooms. Riders of all levels, from beginners through to the more experienced are catered for with a wide selection of horses. Other activities include fishing, rafting, walking, swimming or working with the gauchos, all in the surrounds of the beautiful Andean foothills.

Estancia los Potreros

From £700 per person for a 4 day/3 night packageFull-board

A beautiful reserve at the top of the Cordoba hills, this estancia dates from 1574 and today is an organic working cattle farm breeding Aberdeen Angus cattle and Peru Pasano horses. Owned by the same Anglo-Argentine family for four generations, accommodation on the farm is simple yet comfortable, and all rooms have private facilities. Guests can work with the younger horses, play polo, ride out for the day or enjoy bird-watching, golf, trekking and wine-tasting.

“The riding in Argentina is out of this world. If you love the outdoor life, the fishing, hiking and white-water rafting are terrific.”Andrew Marshall, Rainbow Tours, Head of Product

Patagonia encompasses a huge area of southern Argentina and Chile and the very name conjures up images of remote, unchartered territory. Argentina’s lowlands to the east give way to the southern Andes mountain range characterised by majestic peaks, lakes and glaciers.

Ushuaia is another noteworthy mention in Patagonia. The capital of the Tierra del Fuego region, it is considered to be the world’s southernmost city. It is also the departure point for Antarctic expeditions (see page 116) and is the gateway to the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

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Patagonia

Within Argentina’s share of Patagonia, the highlights

are the small towns of El Calafate and El Chalten. Reached from El Calafate, the Los Glaciares National Park is the gateway to the nearby Perito Moreno glacier, one of the continent’s most impressive sights, and the Upsala and Onelli glaciers. Several hours from El Calafate is the town of El Chalten, which attracts visitors interested in trekking through the spectacular scenery and the famous peaks of Fitzroy National Park.


Argentina

Patagonia

Casa los Sauces

From £90B/B

The luxurious Casa los Sauces is a small Patagonian-style lodge near El Calafate that has just 18 elegant suites. It has excellent amenities and the contemporary artwork creates a real sense of individual style. The staff at this boutique lodge are attentive and attuned to people’s individual requirements. It has an excellent restaurant and on some evenings you can enjoy a real Argentinean asado with the local gauchos. Enjoy the spectacular scenery whilst sampling fabled Argentine beef, grilled to perfection over glowing embers.

Hosteria el Puma

From £55B/B

For hiking in the beautiful Fitzroy National Park, the family run Hosteria el Puma in El Chalten is the perfect choice. This charming lodge is set at the foot of the trailheads to the park and provides very comfortable and contemporary styled accommodation. It has a great restaurant and is an excellent choice for more serious hikers, offering easy access to all of the local trails. Take advantage of expert mountain guides who will help you to fully explore this mountain wilderness.

The Valdes Peninsula is an important breeding ground for the Southern Right whale. See them between July and November, and Magellanic penguins from September through to March.

Valdes Peninsula For wildlife enthusiasts we recommend a visit to the Valdes Peninsula which juts out into the South Atlantic coast to the east of Patagonia and is a haven for marine wildlife. The two main reasons for visiting the peninsula are that it is an important breeding ground for the Southern Right whales which occupy these waters between July and November to mate and give birth. It is also an opportunity to visit the Punta Tombo penguin rookery, south of the peninsula. This important site is the largest breeding ground for Magellanic penguins in South America with up to half a million arriving every year to breed. The best months to see penguins are from September to March, but the babies are hatched from November onwards.

Eolo, El Calafate

From £232Full-board

Eolo is a beautiful 17-suite country lodge located on a 3,000 hectare estate in the midst of the Patagonian wilderness, between the town of El Calafate and the Perito Moreno glacier. Every direction offers beautiful, uninterrupted views towards Lago Argentino, the valley, or towards Chile’s Torres del Paine peaks. Eolo has a restaurant, bar and library as well as an indoor swimming pool. Trekking and mountain biking are included, as well as presentations on Patagonia given by the hotel’s excellent staff.

Magellanic penguin

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Uruguay

Uruguay makes a great extension to a holiday in Argentina. Cross the River Plate by hydrofoil in a couple of hours or fly from Buenos Aires to Montevideo or Punta del Este. There are some lovely old Portuguese colonial-style towns and around Punte del Este there are miles of beautiful beaches, luxury hotels and restaurants and thriving nightlife.

Claudia Morales, Branding Latin America, says:“Overshadowed by Argentina and Brazil, its vastly larger neighbours, little Uruguay is incredibly lovely but relatively unknown outside South America. One of my favourite places is ancient Colonia del Sacramento, with its cobblestone streets and many Portuguese colonial buildings - it’s an easy ferry ride from Buenos Aires.

Want to go somewhere really glamorous? Rather than the ritzy resort of Punta del Este, head for laid-back José Ignacio just along the coast, which has gourmet restaurants and arty boutiques, and attracts celebs in their droves”.

BuenosAires

Bariloche

El Calafate

Bolivia

Paraguay

Argentina

Uruguay

Brazil

Chile

This 10-day private tour takes you right to the heart of Buenos Aires’ culture and also showcases the wonderful natural beauty of Patagonia.

Combine the energetic city of Buenos Aires with the rugged beauty of Patagonia. In Buenos Aires you will visit the districts of La Boca, Recoleta and Palermo as well as enjoying a tango show. Afterwards head south to Patagonia and witness the glaciers, lakes and mountains of the region.

DAy 1

Overnight flight from London Heathrow to Buenos Aires

DAy 2

Arrive in Buenos Aires and transfer to the Mine Hotel (or similar) for a 3 night stay

DAy 3

Morning city tour. Evening tango show with dinner

DAy 4

Free time to explore the city

DAy 5

Fly south to El Calafate. Stay at the Casa los Sauces for 3 nights

DAy 6

Full day tour to the Perito Moreno glacier

DAy 7

Free time or take an optional cruise to Upsala and Onelli glaciers, which can be arranged locally

DAy 8

Fly to Bariloche and stay at the Design Suites Hotel for 2 nights

Buenos Aires & Patagonia Buenos Aires – Calafate – Bariloche – Buenos Aires

DAy 9

Free time to explore Bariloche

DAy 10

Fly to Buenos Aires for a final night at the Mine Hotel

DAy 11

Overnight flight from Buenos Aires to London.

Prices from £2750 per person sharing, including international flights and breakfast throughout.


Argentina & ChileBuenos Aires – Bariloche – Lakes Crossing Torres del Paine – Calafate – Buenos Aires

BuenosAires

Bariloche

El CalafateTorresdel Paine

Bolivia

Paraguay

Argentina

Uruguay

Brazil

Chile

Puerto Varas

DAy 1

Overnight flight from London Heathrow to Buenos Aires

DAy 2

Arrive Buenos Aires for a 3 night stay at the Mine Hotel

DAy 3

Morning city tour of Buenos Aires which includes the colourful district of La Boca, the Plaza de Mayo, as well as La Recoleta and Palermo

DAy 4

Free day to explore Buenos Aires further or take time to relax in one of the many cafés, restaurants and bars that fill this vibrant city

DAy 5

Fly to Bariloche for a 2-night stay

DAy 6

Explore Bariloche, one of Argentina’s most spectacular towns. Hike, bike or relax in this stunning part of the world, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and crystal clear lakes

DAy 7

Take the full-day spectacular journey as you cross the lake to Puerto Varas in Chile

DAy 8

Free day to explore

DAy 9

Fly south to Punta Arenas and continue by road to Torres del Paine where you stay for 3 nights at the Hosteria las Torres

Buenos Aires & Patagonia Buenos Aires – Calafate – Bariloche – Buenos Aires

DAyS 10/11

Explore the national park on the various excursions that are included in your stay at the hotel

DAy 12

Travel back into Argentina and El Calafate for 2 nights

DAy 13

Full-day visit to the Perito Moreno glacier

DAy 14

Fly to Buenos Aires and stay overnight at the Mine Hotel

DAy 15

Overnight return flight to London.

Prices from £3570 per personsharing, including international flights and breakfast on each day except for days 9-11 which are full-board.

Explore the scenic wonders of Argentinean and Chilean Patagonia on this spectacular 14-day private tour.

There are so many highlights in this itinerary that showcases Patagonia, one of the most beautiful regions in the world. Traverse the Lake District from Argentina to Chile, experience the wildlife and jaw-dropping beauty of the Torres del Paine National Park and the Perito Moreno glacier. The trip begins in Buenos Aires where you can sample the vibrant culture of this exciting city.

Argentina

Chile

Chile is long and thin, stretching some 4,300 kilometres down the south-western Pacific coast of

South America. It also includes remote and mysterious Easter Island. The average width of the mainland, from the sea to the Andes, is just 180 kilometres. Whether you are cruising through the fjords, skiing during the northern hemisphere’s summer, hiking in Torres del Paine or exploring the salt flats and geysers of the Atacama, a holiday in Chile is bound to captivate your imagination.

The capital, Santiago, is a very modern city, and one of the most enjoyable in South America. It is close to Chile’s world-renowned vineyards and, for those seeking an adrenaline rush, some of the country’s best ski slopes.

If natural beauty was a currency, Chile would be a superpower!A country of extraordinary scenery, it stretches from the salt lakes and red sand of the Atacama Desert in the north, to the glaciers and dramatic granite pillars of the Torres del Paine National Park in the Patagonian south.

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Puerto Varas

Chiloé

Puerto Natales

Arica

Punta Arenas

Bolivia

Peru

Paraguay

ArgentinaUruguay

Brazil

Chile

Iquique

San Pedrode Atacama

AtacamaDesert

Vina del Mar

Torres del Paine

ValparaisoSantiago

When to goChile can be visited all year round. Patagonia in the south is best visited between October and April, with the peak months being December to February, though even in these months, the weather can be unpredictable. In the Atacama days are generally sunny but can cool down considerably in the winter evenings of May to August. Santiago and the Central Valley enjoy a Mediterranean style climate. Easter Island has a subtropical climate. The wettest month is May and the warmest months are from January to March.

Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK to Chile. Most itineraries will involve flying via Madrid with a change of aircraft. However, according to your itinerary you may also change aircraft in South America.

GMT: -4 hours EASTER ISLAND GMT -6 hours

Visas British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Chile.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Chile.

“Chilean wines are internationally recognised, great value for money and going from strength to strength, and if you only visit one winery while you’re there, make it the Matetic in San Antonio, out on the Maipo wine route, which is very easily accessible from Santiago.”Sarah Ahmed, The Wine DetectiveRead more about Chilean wine on page 23

Chile

Chile has fabulous accommodation even in the remotest areas. After you’ve had your fill of its beautiful panoramas by day, in the evenings it’s time to feast on Patagonian lamb or Pacific seafood washed down with fine Chilean wines.

Things to do in Chile: See flamingos in the Atacama Desert Be awestruck by Torres del Paine NP See the Moai statues on Easter Island Take a day trip to a winery Take an Australis Expedition cruise


In the north of Chile lies the unique Atacama Desert. Not only is it the driest place on earth, but also one of the most unforgettable. From the town of San Pedro de Atacama, you can visit vivid red desert landscapes, Altiplanic lagoons and the Valley of the Moon.

In stark contrast to the arid desert, lying to the south of the country is Torres del Paine, Chile’s most spectacular and well-known national park. It is famed for its impressive granite pillars, but its awe-inspiring glaciers, vividly coloured lakes and rugged plains will also take your breath away. It is perfect for hikers and horse riders alike.

Easter Island

Atacama

22

Chile’s capital is a modern, dynamic city which reflects the

impressive economic growth of the country in recent decades. Enjoying a Mediterranean climate, it is within an hour or so of the best ski resorts in the Andes, some of the most productive vineyards in the world, the port of Valparaiso and resort of Vina del Mar. The city boasts a number of fine places to stay including many of the top chains and some fantastic boutique hotels.

In recent years, there can be few dining tables in this country that

have not seen a bottle or two of Chilean wine. Many of the vineyards are in Chile’s Central Valleys close to Santiago and can be visited for the day. With the number of vineyards increasing five-fold in recent years, a number have opened their doors to visitors, with some offering accommodation. Further on from the Central Valley is the historic city port of Valparaiso, known locally as Valpo, which was granted UNESCO World Heritage status early this century on account of its unique architecture and historic importance.

Le Rêve Boutique Hotel

From £95B/B

Le Rêve is situated amongst the embassies and houses of Providencia, one of the most prestigious and oldest areas of Santiago. Just a pleasant 15 minute walk from the restaurants, attractions and museums in the centre of the city, the style and service at Le Rêve are renowned for delivering one of the best overnight stay experiences in Santiago. This French-style hotel’s history and the sumptuous, luxurious rooms make you feel a part of a rich and varied past.

Santiago Park Plaza

From £70B/B

Santiago Park Plaza is centrally located in the delightful residential district of Providencia, surrounded by restaurants and cafés. The hotel offers very friendly, personal service, which is combined with luxurious rooms. Other facilities include an informal pavement café, a great indoor rooftop pool and a luxurious spa. Whilst not as individual as some other hotels, the Park Plaza offers visitors comfort and service and is an excellent choice to recover from your long flight from the UK.

Santiago & Valparaiso

Easter Island Easter Island is but a tiny dot in the middle of the Pacific, five hours by air from the South American mainland. Rapa Nui, as the island is locally called, is most famous for its monolithic stone statues. There are a thousand or so of these Moai statues scattered about the island, which range in height from 10 to 40ft and weigh more than 50 tons. Discovered by a Dutchman, Admiral Roggeveen, on Easter Day in 1722, this is one of the most isolated places on earth. The people and their culture are more closely linked to Polynesia than Chile. Beyond the Maois, the landscape of the island is undulating with a number of white sandy beaches and very few trees. The island is inhabited by around 5,000 people. A number of festivals take place throughout the year, with the most important being the early February Tapati Festival which includes traditional sporting contests, song, dance and processions.


Chilean WinePeppery reds & spicy whites

Sarah Ahmed, the Wine Detective, shares her knowledge of Chilean wines with Rainbow Tours


Chile

Independent, award-winning wine writer and communicator,

Sarah Ahmed, first visited Chile in 2002. Six years later, when she was asked to return to judge the Annual Chile Wine Awards, she was delighted to find a broader, more exciting portfolio of grape varieties, plus a host of new regions already firing on all cylinders.

“Bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the snow-capped Andes to the east, desert to the north and chilly Antarctic influences to the south, it’s not surprising that long, thin Chile has an exciting diversity of climates - and a correspondingly wide number of wine styles” says Sarah.

“The country has long produced a choice of well-structured, deep fruited reds, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, the best wines are from the cooler regions such as Elqui, San Antonio and Limari. They are deliciously juicy with lots of pepper and spice, quite European in style. And if your taste is for white wine, you can’t beat the Sauvignon Blanc, especially those

from Leyda, Limari and Elqui; the rarer, spicier Sauvignon Gris is worth a look too.

Chile is known for its value for money entry level wines - it’s one of the few countries which can make good but affordable Pinot Noir. But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a one trick pony - it produces some reassuringly (sometimes eye-wateringly) expensive wines too, but as a rule, I think it’s safe to say that you definitely get more bang for your buck with Chilean wines.

Almost everyone visits Santiago on a visit to Chile, which is within easy distance of some of the country’s oldest and best wineries along the Maipo wine route. Out of town, if there’s one winery I’d visit, it would be Matetic in San Antonio. It’s a cutting edge, family-owned estate which is farmed organically. Not only can you taste some of Chile’s most characterful wines here, you can also tour the stunning winery and dine at the restaurant which is highly recommended by yours truly!” www.thewinedetective.co.uk

Awasi

From £1220 per person for a 3-night packageFull-board

This luxury award-winning boutique hotel, right in the heart of the pretty adobe town of San Pedro de Atacama, consists of eight thatched cottages. Each cottage has a private sun terrace and outdoor shower. It’s a perfect hideaway for exploring the Atacama Desert region. Spend the long days exploring the desert by jeep, with knowledgeable local guides. Enjoy delicious home cooked food served at the hotel’s restaurant.

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The AtacamaThe driest place on earth

Casa Atacama


Casa Atacama was the first sustainable hotel in northern Chile, and promotes ecologically sound tourism, the responsible use of natural resources, recycling and conscientious energy use. The hotel’s design has been geared towards conservation, with a focus on water conservation, low energy consumption and a solar-heated water system. Immersed in one of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes, Casa Atacama strives to mirror its natural surroundings, with 25 rooms with interior gardens and terraces. A spa, pool and Jacuzzi complete the picture.

Explora en Atacama


Explora en Atacama is part of one of the most iconic hotel groups in Latin America, renowned for properties in spectacular locations. This hotel has 50 modern, extremely comfortable and stylish rooms and suites, and is the perfect place to fully appreciate the clear desert skies and unimaginably vivid stargazing at the hotel’s own observatory. In between the guided excursions, you can relax in one of the classy pools or sauna.

Rising from sea level to over 4,000 metres into the Andes towards Bolivia, the Atacama Desert is the driest place on earth, and home to one of the strangest and most beautiful landscapes found in Latin America.

San Pedro de Atacama is a fertile oasis town with a fabulous

backdrop of volcanoes, from where it is possible to visit the local villages with their typical adobe built structures, the Tatio geysers, the Atacama salt flats, where you can see flamingos and other birdlife, the Valley of the Moon and the high Altiplano.

Australis Cruises

Australis Cruises are for those who want to explore the wild and beautiful Patagonian fjords. Cruises operate from October to April between Punta Arenas in Chile and Ushuaia in Argentina, for either three or four nights. You will sail through the Straits of Magellan, the Beagle Channel and around Cape Horn on a journey through fjords, glaciers and islands.

A highlight for many, weather permitting, is landing at Cape Horn and walking to the monument at the southernmost tip of the continent. Travel by zodiacs to explore uninhabited islands that provide sanctuary for many local birds as well as sea lions, and, occasionally, whales. Land excursions allow you to take a close look at penguins, elephant seals and an amazing array of birdlife. Your expedition leaders will help you identify and learn about the region’s flora, fauna, geography and history.


Lakes & GlaciersWaterfalls and virgin forests

The Lake District is one of the most beautiful areas in Chile, filled with volcanoes, pristine lakes, waterfalls and virgin forests.

This is a great area to hire a car for a few days and explore nearby

national parks, Chiloe Island (with a regular ferry service from the mainland), or the numerous surrounding lakes. From Puerto Varas, it is possible to make the full day lakes crossing to Bariloche in Argentina. Further south, one of the highlights is the magnificent San Rafael glacier. This can be visited from remote hotels in the region such as the Termas de Puyuhuapi.

Chile

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Patagonia, Torres del Paine

Chilean Patagonia offers a visitor the opportunity to experience true, untouched wilderness. One of the best examples of what this incredible continent can offer is the spectacular Torres del Paine National Park.

Torres del Paine National Park is famed for its impressive

iconic granite pillars but also has awe-inspiring glaciers, a wide variety of wildlife, pristine lakes and fabulous wide open spaces for hikers and horse riders alike. If hiking is your thing then Torres del Paine is home to one of the world’s great trekking routes, the W Trek. Apart from taking in the scenery, those looking for a less active time can take scenic boat trips on Last Hope Sound or Lago Grey. Torres del Paine is around five to six hours’ travelling time from Punta Arenas airport.


Chile

Patagonia Camp


If you’re looking for somewhere slightly different, try the first luxury camp in South America. Located just outside Torres del Paine National Park on the shores of Lake Toro, it has spectacular views of the Paine Massif and has been designed to have minimum impact on the environment. The entire complex is built on wooden stilts, including the 18 Mongolian-style yurts, so that the plants that have grown in the area for hundreds of years are protected.

Estancia Cerro Guido


Cerro Guido is a working estancia in the wilds of Patagonia, close to the Torres del Paine National Park. Dating from the nineteenth century, 15 rooms retain their Patagonian heritage, and traditional cuisine is served using organic home-grown produce. Your stay at Cerro Guido is on an all-inclusive basis, and where this differs from others in the region is that its status as a working estancia allows guests to see many activities such as calving, horse-training, shepherding and sheep-shearing.

Explora en Patagonia


Explora en Patagonia is the only lodge at the centre of Torres del Paine National Park, home to diverse and pristine ecosystems and the perfect base for some great Patagonia travel. Fifty comfortable rooms all have panoramic views of the park, and each day you will be consulted as to how you wish to spend your time exploring the area, selecting from 35 different excursions on foot or horseback, from the very active to the more sedate and relaxing.

Hosteria las Torres


This comfortable lodge is located within the Torres del Paine National Park, adjacent to the pathway that takes hikers on the strenuous full-day walk to the base of the granite towers. There are 84 comfortable rooms including two suites, a bar, restaurant, spa, a wood-burning fire in the lounge and a daily choice of excursions. All meals are included as well as a variety of spa treatments. Return transfers from Punta Arenas or across the border to Calafate are also part of the package.

Things to do in Torres del Paine National Park: See the Towers of Paine Take on the W Trek Boat ride to see Grey Glacier Enjoy a lamb BBQ Take a spectacular horse ride

This itinerary offers you the opportunity to explore Chile in all its natural glory. From the Atacama desert to the peaks of Torres del Paine National Park, you have the chance to experience true wilderness. As a group trip this is also an incredible opportunity to visit Chile at great value.

DAy 1

Overnight flight from London via Madrid to Santiago

DAy 2

Morning arrival in Santiago where you will be met and transferred to the hotel. Afternoon tour of Santiago and north to San Cristobal Hill for a panoramic view of the city and Andes mountains beyond

DAy 3

After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight north to Calama. On arrival transfer to the pretty village of San Pedro de Atacama

DAy 4

Visit the Valley of the Moon, the Atacama salt flats, Altiplanic lakes and the Tatio geysers

Puerto Natales

Punta Arenas

Paraguay

Brazil

Chile

San Pedrode Atacama

Santiago

ChiloeIsland

Chile Express Small Group TourSantiago – Atacama – Puerto Natales – Santiago

A great value 13-day small group tour, that takes in the natural wonders of both the north and south of Chile.

DAy 5

Today see the magnificence of the Atacama. Visit the Atacama salt flats - Chile’s largest. At the Chaxa Lagoon see Andean flamingos and other birdlife

DAy 6

An early start in order to travel to the Tatio geysers. This geothermal field is best viewed at dawn when you can watch the natural phenomenon of the steam columns rising as the sun rises over the volcanoes

DAy 7

After breakfast transfer to the airport of Calama to board the flight to Santiago connecting to Puerto Montt

DAy 8

Visit the towns of Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt, including wonderful views of Lake Llanquihue and the Osorno volcano

DAy 9

Today you will depart southwards to Chiloe Island. Visit the village of Quemchi and the area of Aucar. See the famous architecture and ancient churches

DAy 10

After breakfast take the flight to Punta Arenas and from here, continue by comfortable scheduled coach service to Puerto Natales

DAy 11

A full day tour with lunch, sailing from Puerto Natales through Last Hope Sound towards Balmaceda glacier, home to vast numbers of cormorants and sea lions

DAy 12

Discover the dramatic Torres del Paine National Park on a full day excursion including lunch. Driving through the park you may see native flora and fauna such as guanacos

DAy 13

Leave Puerto Natales by scheduled coach service to Punta Arenas in time for your flight to Santiago

DAy 14

Transfer to the airport for your flight home to the UK.

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Prices from £2975 per personsharing, including international flights and many meals.

Chile Express Small Group TourSantiago – Atacama – Puerto Natales – Santiago


After two days exploring the city of Santiago, fly to the extreme north and experience one of the driest and most mysterious places on earth, the Atacama Desert. Then head south to the glaciers and fjords of Cape Horn and the Beagle Channel aboard the Australis expedition cruise. This trip ends with a few days to unwind in Buenos Aires before heading home.

DAy 1

Overnight flight from London via Madrid to Santiago

DAy 2

Arrive in Santiago for a 2 night stay, based at La Rêve Boutique Hotel (or similar)

DAy 3

Enjoy a half-day Santiago city tour including the San Francisco cathedral, La Moneda and the main square

DAy 4

Fly from Santiago to the Atacama Desert

Chile

Prices from £3695 per person sharing, including international flights and breakfast throughout and full-board in the Atacama Desert and whilst on board the Australis cruise.

Chile North to SouthSantiago – Atacama – Patagonia – Buenos Aires

DAyS 5-6

Explore the wild red landscapes of the Atacama Desert, active geysers and Andean villages by 4WD with your own personal guide, who will help you plan your daily excursions

DAy 7

Return to Santiago to stay overnight

DAy 8

Fly from Santiago to Punta Arenas to embark on the 4-night Australis expedition cruise that takes you through the Straits of Megellan, the Beagle Channel and around Cape Horn to Ushuaia in Argentina

DAyS 9-10

On board the Australis where there will be opportunities to travel by zodiacs to explore uninhabited islands

DAy 11

Arrive at Cape Horn to disembark in the national park, weather permitting as winds can occasionally prevent landings at this desolate southerly spot

DAy 12

Disembark the Australis cruise ship and fly to Buenos Aires where you stay at the Mine Hotel (or similar)

DAyS 13-14

Spend two days exploring the Argentinean capital of Buenos Aires, including a half-day city tour and a traditional tango show

DAy 15

Transfer to airport for return flight to the UK.

This 14-day private itinerary explores Chile’s natural wonders, spanning the entire country, and includes a cruise through the Chilean fjords

BuenosAires

Chile

Atacama

Santiago

Argentina

Punta Arenas

Brazil

Brazil’s landscapes range from the golden beaches that stretch

along 7,000 kilometres of coastline to the Amazon jungle and one of the world’s largest wetland areas. But equally alluring is the country’s incredibly diverse cuisine, music and religions - the product of Brazil’s mixed Amerindian, European and African heritage.

Choosing where to start in Brazil is like asking a 10 year old to decide which Christmas present to open first. However, for many Rio is the number one attraction. An extraordinary place, full of energy, it has an incomparable setting of sweeping beaches back-dropped by granite, forested peaks. The colossal statue of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado mountain watches over the city. Far below lie Copacabana and Ipanema, among the most famous beaches in the world, and several hours from Rio are smaller resorts such as Ilha Grande and Paraty to the south and Buzios to the east.

Brazil is a vast country bursting at the seams with enticements for every traveller - from incredibly vibrant cities to dense jungle, and iconic beaches to a fun-loving culture that will have you smiling the moment you step off the plane.

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Fortaleza

Salvador

Natal

Manaus

Olinda

Bolivia

Paraguay

Argentina

Uruguay

Brazil

IguassuFalls

Peru

Belem Jericoacoara

Chile

Recife

Maceió

Rio de JaneiroSao Paulo

Florianópolis

Belo Horizonte

BrasilaCuiabá

The Pantanal

The Amazon

When to goBrazil can be visited all year. Rio is hotter and wetter between November and March but is pleasant in other months. The Pantanal is best visited from April to October. The Amazon is hot and humid all year round.

Getting there British Airways and TAM Airlines both fly to Sao Paulo and Rio. Flying time is approximately 11 hours.

Time Difference There are various time zones, but Rio and Iguassu Falls are GMT-2 or -3 hours according to the time of year.

Visas British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Brazil.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Brazil. However, if you have visited Peru, Bolivia or Venezuela in a recent period prior to entering Brazil, then you must have a Yellow Fever Certificate. Precautions against malaria and yellow fever, if travelling to the Amazon, are suggested, but check with your GP.

No trip to Brazil is complete without sampling their very own cocktail, the Caiparinha. Hailing from Paraty, the Caiparinha is made with one lime, two ounces of Cachaca, sugar and crushed ice. Sip one

of these whilst lazing by the pool, and you will

understand why it was invented.

Brazil

Another of Brazil’s many highlights is the world-famous Iguassu Falls, an astonishing natural wonder that can be enjoyed from three different countries.

Whether you want activity and adventure, or relaxation on the beach, Brazil really does have something for everyone.

Things to do in Brazil: Get to grips with Rio – there’s so much to see! View the Iguassu Falls from both sides Take an Amazon cruise See the wildlife of the Pantanal Explore Salvador and its beaches


Although you can visit the Amazon from several South American countries, its most famous home is in Brazil. The Amazon offers an amazing and unique experience for those wishing to explore the hidden world within the rainforest canopy. Brazil’s Amazon is not only a paradise for bird-watchers and nature lovers, but also provides great opportunities to experience the cultures that call the rainforest home.

It’s not until you have taken the train ride up Corcovado mountain, on top of which is the statue of Christ the Redeemer, that you fully appreciate the beauty of Rio’s setting.

The panorama of beaches, mountains and islands, sea

and bays is unforgettable. Take the cable car to the summit of Sugar Loaf mountain, stroll along the legendary beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema or Leblon, listen to the soothing tones of some bossa nova and enjoy a typical fejoida dish washed down with a caiparinha.

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Rio & the beaches


Rio & the beaches

Copacabana Palace

From £210B/B

Superbly positioned overlooking the sea, this glamorous Orient-Express landmark has welcomed the rich and famous since its Art Deco doors opened in 1923. Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers danced here and the Rolling Stones tuned up in its grand salon before their concert on the beach. The magnificent pool and super-cool Bar do Copa are where Brazil’s style-setters gather to soak up the sun. The restaurants are destinations in themselves, whether for great local dishes or fine dining at Cipriani.

Casas Brancas

From £200B/B

The Casas Brancas Boutique Hotel & Spa is both cool and elegant, nestled in the hills overlooking Búzios’ spectacular bay. It has 32 rooms, some with a private terrace overlooking the sea. The hotel’s refined, laid-back atmosphere, ocean view spa, restaurants, beach lounge and pristine open spaces are most attractive, but with the main street of Búzios and its many bars, restaurants and boutiques just a short walk away, Casas Brancas is the place to enjoy all that Búzios has to offer.

Porto Bay Rio Internacional

From £130B/B

For excellent value we recommend Porto Bay, which has an exceptionally high guest satisfaction rate and 117 bright, modern rooms overlooking Copacabana beach. A beautiful rooftop pool, complete with bar, offers stunning views to Corcovado and of the statue of Christ the Redeemer, and is the place to relax after a day of city sight-seeing and shopping, both of which are conveniently close to the hotel. The restaurant, La Finestra, has beautiful sea views and a delicious choice of menu.

Orla Copacabana Hotel

From £65B/B

The Orla Copacabana is a modern property in a superb location with a panoramic view of and direct access to Copacabana beach, within a few minutes’ walk from the sophisticated shops and charming beach in Ipanema. With 115 comfortable rooms (we recommend booking a Deluxe Room for sweeping views of the ocean), a restaurant and café bar with ocean view, small roof-top pool, fitness centre, sauna and excellent friendly personal service, this is a good mid-range choice in Rio.

Ponta dos Ganchos Exclusive Resort

From £240B/B

Located on the Emerald Coast, in a small fishing village on a privately-owned peninsula, the area around Ponta dos Ganchos represents the old-fashioned Brazil of colonial times. Known as one of Brazil’s most exclusive beach resorts, 25 sophisticated and charming bungalows all have sea views. A cinema, games room, oceanfront tennis court, heated pool, massage gazebos, SPA by Christian Dior and nature trails complete the picture. Nearby is the best scuba diving site in south Brazil.

The most famous carnival in the world takes place every year just before Ash Wednesday. The Brazilians celebrate with drums, singing and dancing in the streets in an explosion of colour, music and lavish and outrageous costumes.

Brazil

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La Villa Bahia

From £100B/B

La Villa Bahia is a unique pousada in the heart of Salvador’s historical centre of Pelourinho, set in two magnificent colonial mansions where you will experience true Brazilian ‘art de vivre’. Overlooking the colourful façades of the district, the 17 rooms have been renovated to preserve their original spirit. The result is enticing: an authentic atmosphere is enhanced by two courtyards, a refreshing plunge pool and panoramic terrace. Your hosts have implemented genuine local participation and sustainable development practices within Villa Bahia.

Praia do Forte Eco Resort


An hour north of Salvador airport on the coconut-palm fringed beaches of the Bahian coast, the Praia do Forte Eco Resort & Spa is an established larger resort which for over 25 years has enjoyed an excellent reputation. Unlike some of the newer, larger, more recently developed resorts, where you could be anywhere, we think Praia do Forte has retained its Brazilian ethos. The hotel offers a full programme of activities including a tour to a sea turtle preservation project.

Kiaroa Eco Resort

From £221B/B

Kiaroa is a stunning beach resort situated on the Maraú Peninsula within a conservation area of untouched Atlantic jungle, deserted beaches, natural swimming pools, coconut trees and mangroves. Inspired by exotic Polynesian, African and local Bahian designs, Kiaroa blends well with its natural surroundings. Access is by 35 minute daily flight from Salvador. Kiaroa has just 24 rooms, each of which retains elements of local culture, most having ocean views with verandahs and some with private plunge pools.

Salvador & Bahia

Salvador is where Brazil meets Africa and the Caribbean.

Wander through the atmospheric cobbled streets,

learn about capoeira, candomble or traditional forro music, visit magnificent baroque churches and museums and try the delicious Bahian cuisine. Salvador’s stunning setting looks onto the bay of Todos los Santos and is close to beautiful beaches. The Pelourinho area of the city has many colonial buildings and hotels and the Franciscan church here has the most stunning baroque interior of any church in Brazil.


Brazil

Das Cataratas

From £145B/B

A Portuguese-colonial residence, this classic Orient-Express hotel is redolent of lazy days lounging on a verandah, and is the only hotel located within Brazil’s Iguassu National Park, enjoying an unrivalled location near the sensational waterfalls. Guests enjoy exclusive access in the evening and at dawn, when the park is closed to visitors. A natural paradise, the hotel also offers thrills in abundance: white-water rafting, helicopter trips over the gorge and jungle treks to view amazing wildlife including colourful toucans and giant butterflies.

Bourbon Cataratas

From £75B/B

Located on the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, this five-star resort, set in lush, tropical surrounds, offers modern accommodation just 14 miles from Iguassu Falls, or around a 20 minute drive from the entrance to the national park on the Brazilian side. The 300 tastefully decorated rooms have private balconies, and facilities include several restaurants, a spa and two pools. The town of Foz do Iguassu, with its numerous restaurants and shops, is just two miles from the hotel.

The Bristol Viale Cataratas

From £40B/B

Located on Avenida das Cataratas next to the lovely handicraft centre, Bristol Viale Cataratas enjoys a prime location close to the main attractions, best bars and restaurants and centre of Foz do Iguassu. It is just a 25 minute drive from Iguassu airport and the entrance to the national park on the Brazilian side of the falls. The hotel’s bars and restaurants offer panoramic views (don’t miss the caiparinhas in the Viale Bar), and facilities include pools interlaced with waterfalls.

Salvador & Bahia Iguassu Falls

The Iguassu Falls are one of South America’s most impressive natural wonders, bordering Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay.

Eleanor Roosevelt reportedly exclaimed on seeing Iguassu

for the first time “poor Niagara”! With 275 separate waterfalls including the roaring Devil’s Throat, we certainly agree it is very impressive indeed. In fact, no matter how many times you visit Iguassu, it never fails to impress and the memories will live with you forever.

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The Amazon Rainforest

Recommended things to do: Listen to the noises all around you on a night trek Enjoy fishing for piranha Jump in a canoe and see the rainforest from the river Put your feet up in one of the jungle lodges Experience the Amazon at dawn

It is almost impossible to comprehend the multitude of facts and figures about the Amazon region, the most diverse natural habitat on earth with thousands of tree, plant and bird species.

Covering a large part of the South American continent, it is the

world’s largest rainforest and home to over 300 indigenous tribes.

The main Brazilian gateway to this fascinating region, teeming with lush forest and jungle wildlife, is the city of Manaus. From here you can travel by boat to a jungle lodge or board a cruise boat to float gently down the Amazon or Negro rivers, and where the two meet, you can witness the unusual sight where they run side by side without the waters mixing.

Brazil’s Amazon Rainforest

Amazon Eco-Park Jungle Lodge

From £250 per person for a 3 night packageFull-board

Located on the Taruma river, the Amazon Eco-Park is not only a jungle lodge but a scientific and educational establishment, offering a full range of excursions including sunrise and night tours, a visit to a native village, piranha fishing trips and a boat ride to the ‘Meeting of the Waters’. It also has its own monkey rehabilitation centre. From the lodge you can hike jungle trails, relax on the small private beach or cool down in the natural pools.

Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge


A small, pleasant lodge on the margins of the Negro river, here you will find adventure, contemplation and knowledge in the heart of the Amazon, combined with distinguished service and boutique accommodation. The lodge follows the principles of low-impact intervention, and conducts tourist activities responsibly and in harmony with the local community. It is one of Brazil’s most unique hotels and has a privileged view of the surrounding landscape and river. Don’t miss the Science Woods, rich with Amazonian plant and wildlife.

From Manaus several boats operate cruises on the Amazon, the Rio

Negro and their tributaries, with plenty to see and do from dawn until darkness. Dawn is often the best time to spot colourful toucans and parrots, but after dark, you can see caiman and nocturnal animals from the boat’s canoes. During the day look for pink river dolphins, and also learn about the local flora and fauna, and the part they play in the lives of the local people.

Pink dolphin

Less heralded than the Amazon, the Pantanal is the world’s largest wetland area. It is considered to be one of the premier locations for viewing wildlife, as the open spaces here are less dense than in the Amazon.

An incredible number of species have been recorded here

including up to 1,000 types of bird, several hundred species of fish, and other larger wildlife. Caiman and capybara can be found in vast numbers and on a typical visit you should see giant river otters, iguanas, anacondas, piranhas and deer.

The Pantanal is also home to a number of endangered species such as the hyacinth macaw and the jaguar. The best time to visit the region is from April to November.


The Pantanal

Pousada do Rio Mutum


Pousada do Rio Mutum is in one of northern Pantanal’s most beautiful regions. Your wildlife experience begins even before you arrive at the lodge, as you will see birds, butterflies, amazing flora and other wildlife during your three-hour road journey. In this ecological paradise, bird calls at dawn, the enchanting waters, breathtaking sunsets, horse riding through the forests and wetlands, nature trails, watching Brazilian otters playing by the river and alligators enjoying the sun, will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Pousada Araras Eco Lodge


From this lodge, with its enviably preserved surroundings, it is possible to do first-class bird-watching, trekking in pristine forest, canoeing, horse riding, truck photo-safaris and night tours, all with the assistance of expert naturalist guides. Araras has been heavily involved in the protection of its natural environment, and since the lodge’s inception it has seen numbers of macaw living within its boundaries more than double. A homely atmosphere, rustic style and excellent regional food add to the lodge’s charm.

Brazil

Caiman

Scarlet macaw

Jaguar

Capybara

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Fortaleza

Natal

Olinda

Bolivia

Argentina

Brazil

IguassuFalls

Peru

Belem Jericoacoara

Chile

Recife

Maceió

Rio de Janeiro

Paraty

This itinerary introduces you to Brazil’s many attractions – the fabulous city of Rio with her famous beaches and landmarks, the colonial city of Paraty, the magnificent waterfalls at Iguassu and finally, the bays and beaches of the beautiful Buzios peninsula.

DAy 1

Overnight flight from London Heathrow to Rio de Janeiro

DAy 2

Arrive in the morning and spend the afternoon sightseeing

DAy 3

Visit the statue of Christ the Redeemer on top of Corcovado mountain. The views from here looking down over Rio and its beaches and bays are stunning

DAy 4

Spend the day as you choose - relax on the beaches, or arrange further sightseeing locally

DAy 5

Head south from Rio and travel along the Green Coast to the attractive colonial town of Paraty (journey time around 4 hours). Stay here for 2 nights. The afternoon is free for exploring

DAy 6

Day at leisure. With traffic forbidden in the historic centre, Paraty is a pleasant town to stroll around, and has many interesting buildings as well as nice restaurants and boutiques. Walk to the pier and see the fishermen bring in their catch, or take a schooner cruise to an offshore island where you can swim in the sea

Classic BrazilRio de Janeiro – Paraty – Iguassu Falls – Buzios

DAy 7

Road transfer to Rio and fly to Iguassu. Stay at the Viale Cataratas Hotel

DAy 8

Today you will have a half-day to visit the Brazilian side of the Iguassu Falls

DAy 9

Today you will have a full-day tour of the larger Argentine side

DAy 10

Morning flight to Rio, where on arrival you will be met and transferred to the Buzios Peninsula (journey time around 3 hours)

DAyS 11-12

Free time to relax by the pool or hire a jeep and explore the beautiful Buzios Peninsula, which has over 20 bays and beaches. In the evening, head down to the main street of Buzios with its numerous bars, restaurants and boutiques.

DAy 13

In the evening return to Rio airport in time for your overnight flight to London

Prices from £2245 per personsharing, including international flights and breakfast throughout.

A 12-day private tour that showcases the best of Brazil’s cultural and natural highlights.


Starting in Chile’s capital city of Santiago, this trans-continental journey goes from the Pacific shores of Chile to the Atlantic beaches of Rio.

DAy 1

Overnight flight from the UK to Santiago

DAy 2

Arrive in Santiago and transfer to your hotel

DAy 3

Full day excursion to UNESCO World Heritage town of Valparaiso and the resort of Vina del Mar

DAy 4

Free day to explore South America’s most modern city and Chile’s capital, Santiago

DAy 5

After breakfast you will take arguably the continent’s most beautiful road journey, crossing the Andes by scheduled coach to Mendoza

Brazil


Classic BrazilRio de Janeiro – Paraty – Iguassu Falls – Buzios

Across South America TourSantiago – Mendoza – Buenos Aires – Iguassu Falls – Rio de Janeiro

DAy 6

Tour of Mendoza, home to some of the best known wines in the world, and the heart of Argentina’s wine industry

DAy 7

Fly from Mendoza to Buenos Aires and take a tour of the city which will include the colourful district of La Boca, the Plaza de Mayo, as well as La Recoleta and Palermo

DAy 8

Morning sightseeing in Buenos Aires with afternoon free to revisit anything you missed

DAy 9

Free day and enjoy dinner and a spectacular tango show in the evening

DAy 10

Fly from Buenos Aires to Iguassu and tour the Argentinean side of the falls before crossing the border into Brazil, and transferring to your hotel

DAy 11

Half-day visit to the Brazilian side of the Iguassu Falls

DAy 12

Fly to Rio

DAy 13

Morning tour visiting the artistic district of Santa Teresa, before continuing to the summit of Corcovado mountain and the statue of Christ the Redeemer

DAy 13

Return overnight flight to the UK.

This 12-day tour takes you on a journey across South America, showcasing the highlights of Chile, Argentina and Brazil.

BuenosAires

Mendoza

Fortaleza

Natal

Olinda

Argentina

Brazil

IguassuFalls

Belem Jericoacoara

Chile

Recife

Maceió

Rio de Janeiro

Santiago

Peru

Peru is home to one of the continent’s most sought-after highlights, iconic Machu Picchu. This Inca citadel is an

awe-inspiring sight, and on many travellers’ lifetime must-see list. 2011 was the centenary of its discovery by Hiram Bingham, however, it was also the year that the Peruvian government decided to reduce the number of entrance tickets to the citadel by half, so make sure you book early!

Cuzco offers more than its tag as the starting point for trips to Machu Picchu. A beautiful Spanish colonial city built upon Inca foundations, it is at its most vibrant in late June during the annual Incan Inti Raymi festival. Between Cuzco and Machu Picchu lies the Urubamba or Sacred Valley, with many colourful markets and Inca ruins.

Whilst Machu Picchu is its defining image, Peru offers so much more. Natural wonders and rich cultures blend perfectly to make the country one of Latin America’s most rewarding.

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Machu PicchuPuerto Maldonado

Iquitos

Bolivia

Paraguay

Argentina

Uruguay

Brazil

Puno

Peru

Sacred ValleyCuzco

Chile

Chiclavo

Ica

Lima

Nazca

Arequipa

Pacaya SamiriaNational Park

Colombia

Ecuador

Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, and also the gateway to cross into Bolivia. Further south is the Colca Canyon. Deeper than the Grand Canyon, it is worth visiting not only for its extraordinary beauty, but also because it offers a unique opportunity to spend time watching the beautiful condor.

Peru is one of the three most accessible countries from which you can visit the Amazon rainforest. You can stay in jungle lodges reached from Puerto Maldonado, or set off from Iquitos on a comfortable cruise or expedition on the world’s most famous river.

When to goThe best months to visit Peru are from April to November, although temperatures at night can be very cold at higher altitudes. The rainy season is between January and March. Lima’s climate is dry, though grey, throughout the year. The Amazon remains hot and humid year-round.

Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK to Peru. You will fly via a European airport or the US. The quickest flight time is between 16 and 17 hours. Lima is the main arrival point.

GMT: -5 hours

Visas British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Peru. However if you are travelling via the US, it will be necessary to obtain the ESTA.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Peru. Precautions against malaria and yellow fever, if travelling to the Amazon, are suggested, but check with your GP.

The floating islands are made of reed and are home to traditional communities. They can be visited from both the Peruvian and the Bolivian sides of Lake Titicaca.

Peru

One of the greatest changes in recent years to tourism in Peru has been the growth of luxurious accommodation, not only in the cities but even in the remotest areas. So if you want full-on creature comforts all the way - and that includes an Amazon river cruise or a train journey to Machu Picchu - that can be arranged.

Recommended things to do: Be wowed by Machu Picchu Take in the picture postcard views of Lake Titicaca Spot condors in the Colca Canyon Explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley Take a luxurious Amazon cruise


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Lima & Excursions

For many Lima is seen merely as the entry point to Peru.

However the city does have its own gems worth visiting

if you find yourself with a spare day. The main areas of interest are its historic centre (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), archaeological sites, museums, art galleries, festivals, the nightlife and popular local traditions. Lima has a good range of restaurants and bars where local as well as international cuisine is served.

Lima is also the departure points for some of Peru’s less accessible highlights.

The Nazca Lines The Nazca Lines are a series of hundreds of ancient geoglyphs etched into the Nazca Desert in southern Peru. The designs have provoked many discussions over the years between archaeologists and anthropologists about the purpose and meaning of them with still no firm conclusions. Many of the designs depict humans, animals, birds or fish. The best way to appreciate the designs is from the air. Light aircraft flights operate from a number of airstrips close to Nazca or nearby Ica and criss-cross their way over the lines. If you are not staying in the area, then it is possible to take a full day excursion from Lima.

The Ballestas Islands These are a cluster of rocks situated off the coast at Paracas and are renowned for their wildlife, sometimes being referred to as the Peruvian Galapagos. Boat trips operate in the morning and take visitors on a tour of the islands where you often see large colonies of sea lions as well as many seabirds.

Back on land, the nearby region of Pisco is home to a number of vineyards from where the grape liqueur, Pisco Sour originates. The best accommodation in the area is the Paracas Hotel Luxury Collection which has 120 rooms, two large swimming pools and a spa.

The Nazca Lines


Peru

Recommended things to do: Visit Lima’s Larco Museum Go horse riding in the Sacred Valley Fly over the Nasca Lines Take a tour of Pisac market Explore Cusco’s colonial centre

Hotel Monasterio

From £160B/B

Situated right beside Cuzco’s lively central square, Hotel Monasterio is a former monastery and national monument, dating from 1592. It was originally the site of an Inca palace. Now a delightful Orient-Express hotel, it combines centuries-old charm and ambience with luxury service, inspired restaurants and boutique rooms and suites. The ideal hotel from which to discover the delights of Cuzco, its doors open onto a vibrant street scene of old and modern architecture, markets, galleries and restaurants serving ‘new Andean’ cuisine.

Casa Andina Private Collection

From £50B/B

This eighteenth century manor house near Cuzco’s Plaza de Armas is full of colonial character, offering the friendliness of a boutique hotel with the comforts of a much larger establishment. The hotel has three distinguishing interior patios; the principal patio features a gurgling stone fountain and is one of Cuzco’s most emblematic courtyards. The cosy lounge has a massive stone fireplace and guests dine by candlelight in the romantic restaurant, decorated with historic local paintings. Several rooms feature colonial frescoes, uncovered during renovation.

Casa Cartagena

From £96B/B

Casa Cartagena is one of a new generation of boutique hotels in Cuzco. This 16-suite property is close to the main square and was formerly a nobleman’s house. It is built in traditional style with many patios and flower-filled courtyards. The large suites, some with their own private balcony, have been contemporarily furnished and have modern facilities. The restaurant offers international or Peruvian cuisine. It is an ideal choice for those seeking modern amenities within a traditional and authentic setting.

Cuzco

Cuzco is not just the gateway to Machu Picchu,

it’s a striking Spanish colonial city built on Inca foundations and well worth exploring in its own right. This former capital of the Inca Empire is a cultural delight, with local markets, museums and nearby Inca ruins to discover. It’s also home to the famous Inti Raymi festival of the sun that takes place on 24 June every year – book well in advance for the festival period.

Article styleSubheading

South America’s most famous archaeological site, Machu Picchu, was lost to the outside world until 1911, when it was rediscovered by American archaeologist, Hiram Bingham.

Machu Picchu has been voted one of the New Seven Wonders

of the World. Although it can be visited as a day trip from Cuzco or the Sacred Valley, we recommend at least an overnight stay so that you have plenty of time to explore and admire this remarkable site.

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Machu Picchu

From Cuzco to Machu Picchu Trek or train? Starting in Cuzco, with perhaps a short stop in the Sacred Valley, your journey to Machu Picchu depends on how you prefer to travel. For those who like to arrive in relaxed style, there are train services from Cuzco that wind through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. For those who prefer more active pursuits and who have more time, take a guided trek along one of the traditional trails.

Trains Several train companies now operate services to Machu Picchu, the majority of which start from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, and take about 90 minutes to reach Machu Picchu. Peru Rail’s recently

refurbished Vistadome carriages are not only very comfortable but have panoramic windows allowing great views of the Urubamba river and valley. Peru Rail also operate the Hiram Bingham, an elegant member of the Orient-Express train family from Poroy, near Cuzco. This offers a leisurely morning start with brunch served en route, returning in the evening with pre-dinner drinks accompanied by live entertainment and a four-course gastronomic menu.

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

From £370Half-board

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel located adjacent to this ancient Inca citadel. It offers its guests exceptionally easy access to Machu Picchu from early morning to late afternoon, when most of the day visitors and buses have left. Sit out on a terrace and savour Peruvian cuisine based on produce grown on the lodge’s own plot. This delightful Orient-Express hideaway is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the shadow of the Lost City.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel


Located in Aguas Calientes, just steps from the train station and in the valley immediately below Machu Picchu, this hotel is set in 12 acres of private tropical gardens, which include many different types of orchid. A popular choice with many clients over the years, this first-class boutique property, with 85 spacious cottages, has a fabulous range of accommodation as well as a spa offering a wide range of treatments using natural essences, and two restaurants serving international and Andean dishes.

El MaPi Hotel by Inkaterra

From £60Half-board

El MaPi Hotel is an excellent and more affordable hotel choice in the heart of Aguas Calientes, the village below Machu Picchu. Contemporarily furnished, the hotel has 48 comfortable rooms – some with scenic views – and a relaxed and informal feel. This is reflected in the hotel’s café that serves tasty, nutritious breakfasts and remains open throughout the day serving a range of healthy dishes. The hotel also has a ‘not so healthy’ but well stocked bar!



Peru

Trekking to Machu Picchu

There are two alternative ways to trek from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu – take the Classic Inca route and stay under canvas (see our firsthand report on page 47), or choose the more luxurious seven-day trek along the Salkantay trail, and stay in welcoming purpose-built Inca-style mountain lodges.

Most lodges have six rooms, all with en suite facilities, hot showers, excellent food and some with outdoor hot tubs to soothe aching muscles after a long day’s walking. The comfortable nature of the lodges should not disguise the fact that the trek is still quite strenuous, with the highest point being over 4,600 metres.

We strongly suggest spending several days in Cuzco prior to the trek to acclimatise. Luggage is transported between each lodge by mules and you are safely overseen throughout the entire walk by knowledgeable local guides. You will meet few other trekkers en route and pass isolated communities where life has changed little. Frequent departures operate between March and December and for groups of between six and 12, it is possible to organise a private trek – ideal for a group of friends or family, or to celebrate a special occasion. Please ask for details.

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The Inca Trail A view from a former guide


Spectacular Andean scenery...world-class historical ruins...

the satisfaction of real physical achievement...the first time I tackled the four-day Inca Trail was the most amazing and fulfilling experience I’ve ever had.

The second day is the toughest, with an ascent to the 4,215-metre high Dead Woman’s Pass - also known as The Gringo Killer! But all the hard work is worthwhile when you feast your eyes on the breathtaking landscape set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

The scenery on the trail is incredibly varied. On the third day, you descend into rainforest, before setting up camp near the Winay Wayna ruins.

At night on the trek, you sleep in a tent on a comfy mattress. The tents are erected by porters, who also carry your bags, prepare meals and wake you with a hot cup of coca tea on chilly mornings.

Sonia Rojas, Travel Specialist at Rainbow Tours, is Peruvian. She used to work as a tour leader in Peru, and has done the Inca Trail many times.

On the last day, you wake at 4am, and make your way to the Sun Gate to watch the sun rise slowly over Machu Picchu. Even though I’ve been lucky enough to have witnessed this about 45 times, the view still blows me away. You then have time to explore the site, before descending the easy way - by bus and train to Cuzco.

The Inca Trail is challenging, but achievable by anyone who is reasonably fit and acclimatised - as part of your trip planning, we always incorporate two or three days of pre-trek acclimatisation in Cuzco. It’s worth it. Doing the trek is unforgettable, whether the first or the 45th time!

The Peruvian authorities recently placed a daily limit on the number of visitors to Machu Picchu. By booking in advance through us, your entrance to this iconic site will be guaranteed.

Peru

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is at a lower altitude than Cuzco.

It has a mild climate, beautiful scenery, picture

postcard villages and is home to fine Inca sites such as Ollantaytambo, and local markets such as Pisac. It is fed by rivers that descend through adjoining valleys and gorges, and contains numerous archaeological remains and villages. It’s a good place to go walking, horse riding, mountain biking or river rafting if you enjoy more active pursuits. The growing popularity of the valley has led to the development of a number of new hotels, many of which offer first- class facilities.

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Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa

From £60B/B

This lodge is one of the Sacred Valley’s more established properties, and despite the arrival of new hotels, it is still regarded as one of the best. The hotel has 43 individual ‘casitas’ or small houses, some with displays of Peruvian art and tapestries. The hotel can arrange many of the activities available throughout the valley, uses local produce and employs people from the local community. The outstanding spa, beautiful natural gardens and delicious cuisine help you leave relaxed and re-energised.

Hotel Rio Sagrado

From £90B/B

Hotel Rio Sagrado lies amongst verdant fields and towering mountains on the banks of the Urubamba river. This attractive Orient-Express hotel is built in natural materials to resemble an authentic Andean village. Situated at a lower altitude than Cuzco, it provides the perfect environment for relaxation and to acclimatise. It’s is a good base from which to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Savour fresh produce in the restaurant, enjoy a Sacred Valley massage in the spa and slip into the rhythms of Peruvian life.

The Sacred Valley

At an altitude of 3,800 metres and straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. Its intensely blue waters are a spectacular sight contrasted against the snow-capped Andean backdrop.

The best way to arrive here is on the Andean Explorer train

service from Cuzco which runs several times a week to Puno. Exquisitely decorated in the manner of the great Pullman trains of the 1920s, the Andean Explorer boasts a full fleet of refurbished coaches and is owned by Orient-Express. The journey takes you high up into the Altiplano on a leisurely trip through the Andean landscape, where you will spot vicuna and alpaca.

The Uros, the Sun and the Moon and Taquile and Amantaní are some of the many islands on the lake that can be visited. Some are home to Peru and Bolivia’s oldest peoples, where traditional ways of life still survive. Visit small villages around the lake and the archaeological site of Sillustani. If you wish to continue your journey from Lake Titicaca, you can travel by road from Puno to Copacabana in Bolivia and on to La Paz.


Casa Andina Private Collection Puno

From £40B/B

Perched at the water’s edge, 3,800m above sea level, Casa Andina has extraordinary views. Most of the 46 rooms have unparalleled lake vistas and the gourmet restaurant has a glass wall that frames the lake view. A large terrace lets guests take in the seemingly endless vistas. Unique among Puno hotels, oxygen is available in all rooms (a bonus for guests having difficulty adapting to the altitude). The hotel also has its own train station for guests travelling to and from Cuzco.

Casa Andina Private Collection Isla Suasi

From £220 per person for a 2-day package Full-board

This solar-powered eco-lodge is set on the remote and beautiful Isla Suasi, Lake Titicaca’s only private island. Featuring panoramic lake views from every room, surrounded by gardens and designed with native materials, the lodge is committed to ‘green practices’. Suasi is a magical place to disconnect from the world. Spot rare vicuna (a relative of the llama), hike to Itapilluni hill to contemplate the colourful sunsets, canoe around the island, enjoy quiet nature walks or visit the massage room and steam saunas.

Lake Titicaca

Peru

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The attractive city of Arequipa lies in the shadow of three imposing, often snow-capped volcanoes. It is from the white volcanic rock that many of its buildings are made, hence the nickname ‘the White City’.

The historic centre has a number of attractions

including an impressive main square and the Santa Catalina monastery, one of Peru’s most important religious monuments. At an altitude of just under 2,400 metres, Arequipa provides a gradual introduction to higher altitude attractions, such as the Colca Canyon.

Situated 160 kilometres from Arequipa, the Colca Canyon is a colourful valley dotted with picturesque, traditional villages that use agricultural methods from Inca times. However, the main attraction is the canyon, which is twice the depth of the Grand Canyon in the USA. At the popular ‘Cruz del Condor’ viewpoint in the early mornings or evenings, you can sometimes see the canyon’s true star attractions – the Andean condor.

Casa Andina Private Collection

From £50B/B

Restored to its original grandeur, this colonial mansion is one of the finest hotels in Arequipa’s historic centre, and is as much living museum as it is hotel. Inhabiting the 1794 former Mint House, a national historic monument, it was meticulously restored and remodelled in 2008 after a century of neglect, and features vaulted ceilings, colonial courtyards and an elegant restaurant. Five large suites have Republican-era flavour, and 36 new rooms occupy a modern adjunct structure situated off an interior patio.

Sonesta Posada Del Inca

From £30B/B

Charming and intimate, with 58 guest rooms, the Sonesta Posada del Inca is located in the centre of Arequipa’s main square, the Plaza de Armas, within easy access of the city’s major historical treasures. This is a fantastic little hotel awash with Peruvian charm and is very comfortable. Your stay will be enhanced by various features including a rooftop pool and café with spectacular views. Eat your lunch or dinner in a relaxing setting on the restaurant’s balcony overlooking the Plaza de Armas.

Southern PeruArequipa & the Colca Canyon

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No journey to Peru is really complete without a few days in the Amazon rainforest. The diversity of lush flora and fauna makes a vivid contrast to the Andean highlands. The most pristine area for wildlife is the Manu Biosphere Reserve, but access is difficult and warrants a longer stay at one of the remote rainforest lodges.

If you are short on time, rainforest lodges near Puerto Maldonado are a good choice. They are easily reached

from Cuzco and Lima. If however, you yearn to travel along the mighty Amazon itself, take a leisurely cruise in style from Iquitos in the north through the Pacaya Samiria reserve on a luxury vessel.


Reserva Amazonica Lodge


The Reserva Amazonica Lodge sits on the bank of the Madre de Dios River in a 40 square mile private reserve adjacent to Tambopata National Park, and is accessed from Puerto Maldonado by motorised canoe. Offering some of the most luxurious lodge rooms in the Peruvian Amazon, the 35 private en suite cabanas built from natural local materials have hot showers and are lit with low impact electricity. A highlight of this lodge is the canopy walkway.

Luxury Amazon Cruises


A luxury cruise will transport you to a new natural world. Every day is packed with discoveries as you explore remote places along the river by water and on foot, spot unusual wildlife and meet native people. Travel in comfort on a three, four or seven night cruise on the award-winning M/V Aqua and sister ship Aria. The 12 (Aqua) and 16 (Aria) over-sized suites all have generous panoramic windows. After a day’s excursion with expert guides, relax in the lounge or on the outdoor observation deck.

Rainforest Expeditions


Rainforest Expeditions operates three award-winning Amazon lodges: Posada Amazonas, Refugio Amazonas, and Tambopata Research Centre. Each lodge provides access to a unique set of eco-tourism experiences, including hikes, wildlife observation and river activities, in the jungle of southeastern Peru. By working closely with the Ese’eja native community, the lodge generates sustainable local development whilst caring for the environment.

Peruvian Amazon

Peru

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MachuPicchu

Bolivia

Paraguay

Argentina

Uruguay

Brazil

Puno

Peru

SacredValley

Cuzco

Chile

Colca

Lima

Arequipa

Columbia

Ecuador

DAy 1

Morning flight from London Heathrow via Madrid to Lima. At Lima, stay at the Casa Andina Private Collection Hotel. (Depending on flight availability, it may be necessary to fly from London the previous evening overnight to Lima)

DAy 2

Introductory tour of Lima and a visit to the fascinating Larco Herrera Museum

DAy 3

Morning flight to Arequipa. Overnight at the Casa Andina Private Collection, situated on the site of the former Mint Building. Afternoon sightseeing

DAy 4

Leave Arequipa by road for the Colca Valley. This journey takes several hours and reaches an altitude of over 14,000ft before descending into the valley

DAy 5

In the morning a tour will take you to Condor’s Cross at one end of the valley where not only can you gaze at the immense canyon but maybe see the Andean condor

DAy 6

In the afternoon travel by coach to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Stay at the Casa Andina Private Collection Hotel overlooking Lake Titicaca

Treasures of PeruLima – Arequipa – Colca Canyon – Lake Titicaca Cuzco – Machu Picchu – Sacred Valley

DAy 7

Enjoy a full day excursion by boat on the lake and visit the Uros floating reed islands and one of the Indian communities on Taquile Island

DAy 8

Travel by coach for the full-day journey across the Altiplano to Cuzco. En route stop at La Raya, the highest point on the journey, the Inca complex at Raqchi and at Andahuaylillas where the church is known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of the Americas’

DAy 9

Take a short guided tour of the city of Cuzco to discover some of its history and architecture, including the magnificent Inca stonework and structures at Sacsayhuaman

DAy 10

For many, today will be the highlight of a holiday to Peru. The day that you finally reach the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu

DAy 11

You have a free morning to return early to Machu Picchu independently if you wish or relax at the Pueblo Hotel and enjoy some spa treatments. In the afternoon, travel by train to the Sacred Valley

DAy 12

Free to relax by your hotel pool, visit a local market or go trekking either on foot or horseback

DAy 13

Fly from Cuzco to Lima. Continue by air via Madrid to London.

Prices from £2995 per personsharing, including international flights and breakfast throughout

This classic 13-day private itinerary showcases Peru’s best loved natural wonders and colonial gems, including Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca.

Watch for condors soaring over the Colca Canyon, and visit the Indian communities on Lake Titicaca before travelling to the Inca heartland of Cuzco and the wondrous site of Machu Picchu. If you’d like to stay on in Peru a little longer, you can extend your trip to the Amazon, or if you want to see more of South America; the Iguassu Falls and Rio, or Easter Island are excellent extensions.

Wonders of Peru Small Group Tour

Our small group tour offers exceptional value. It visits the iconic Machu Picchu, the Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca and the Sacred Valley. Prices are from £2195 per person sharing, including flights. Regular departures and guaranteed to depart with a minimum of two.


DAy 1

Take the morning flight from London Heathrow to Lima, via Madrid. Stay for 2 nights in the pleasant Miraflores district of Lima

DAy 2

Sightseeing tour of Lima including many of the city’s colonial and cultural gems

DAy 3

Fly to Cuzco and transfer to your Sacred Valley hotel for 2 nights, the Sol y Luna (or similar)

DAy 4

Free day in the Sacred Valley to participate in any number of the activities or tours the hotel offers, which are booked locally

DAy 5

Journey to Aguas Calientes and on to Machu Picchu to spend the day exploring the Inca citadels

DAy 6

Transfer to the colonial city of Cuzco for a 2-night stay

DAy 7

Many people think Cuzco is just the gateway to Machu Picchu but with our half-day tour you will see just how much more it has to offer

Peru

La Paz

PotosiSalar de Uyuni

Sucre

Lake Titicaca

MachuPicchu

Bolivia

Paraguay

Argentina

Uruguay

Brazil

PunoPeru

SacredValley

Cuzco

Chile

Lima

Columbia

Ecuador

Prices from £3615 per personsharing, including international flights.

Treasures of PeruLima – Arequipa – Colca Canyon – Lake Titicaca Cuzco – Machu Picchu – Sacred Valley

Peru & Bolivia HighlightsLima – Sacred Valley – Cuzco – Lake Titicaca – La Paz Salar de Uyuni – Potosi – Sucre

DAy 8

Take a breathtaking train journey through the Andes, aboard the Andean Explorer to Puno, and the shores of Lake Titicaca

DAy 9

Today you will cross into Bolivia and stay at the Posada del Inca Eco Lodge which is situated on Isla del Sol

DAy 10

Continue your journey on to La Paz, a city nestled high in the Andes and surrounded by snow-covered peaks

DAy 11

Take the new flight from La Paz to Uyuni and explore the amazing salt flats. You will also spend the night in a hotel made entirely of salt

DAy 12

Transfer from Uyuni to the colonial town of Potosi. Afternoon visit to the mines

DAy 13

Today you will head to Sucre, some say Bolivia’s most beautiful town, and stay in its best boutique hotel, Hotel de su Merced

DAy 14

Spend the day visiting the village of Potolo, an indigenous town where local women weave the famous Jalk a textiles. The colourful surrounding mountains are magnificent

See the magnificent Inca ruins at Machu Picchu before enjoying the highlights of Bolivia on this 16-day, high altitude itinerary. By way of contrast this trip stays on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca.

Get to the heart of what makes Peru and Bolivia so special. From the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu to the salt flats of Uyuni, this trip takes you on a spectacular journey through the Andes. See magnificent landscapes and the colourful communities and cultures that thrive in the Peruvian and Bolivian Andes.

DAy 15

Fly from Sucre to La Paz

DAy 16

Spend the morning sightseeing. In the afternoon, fly from La Paz to Lima, then continue on your overnight flight to London, via Madrid.

Bolivia

For good reason, it is difficult to find an advert for Latin America without an image of Bolivia’s

extraordinary Uyuni salt flats. They are certainly a sight to behold, but far from the only highlight of this fantastic country. Bolivia is home to some of the most untouched and least visited areas of the Amazon rainforest, while the colonial cities of Sucre and the silver-mining centre of Potosi are well-preserved windows into the country’s history. Bolivia is also becoming known as a destination for the more adventurous, who like the extreme thrill of cycling down a road that has been branded as the world’s most dangerous.

With its rugged terrain, many colourful festivals and indigenous people holding strong religious beliefs, this land-locked country creates a lasting impression. Bolivia can be visited as a country in its own right, but it can also be combined with Peru and Chile as well as Argentina and Brazil.

Straddling the Andes, Bolivia is a country waiting to be explored. Here you will find some of the most spectacular wildernesses in South America, from snow-capped mountain ranges down to the lush forests of the Amazon basin, and from sparkling lakes and great volcanoes to bright white salt flats.

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Uyuni Salt Flats

Bolivia

Paraguay

Argentina

Uruguay

Brazil

La Paz

Potosi

Chile

Salar de UyuniSucre

Laguna Colorada

Laguna Verde

Columbia

Ecuador

Peru

When to goThe best months to visit Bolivia are from April to November, although night time temperatures can be very cold at higher altitude. The rainy season is between January and March whilst the Amazon remains hot and humid at all times.

Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK to Bolivia. La Paz in Bolivia is less accessible than many other cities in Latin America with the probability of flying via Miami or another South American city.

GMT: -4 hours

Visas British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Bolivia. However if you are travelling via the US, it will be necessary to obtain the ESTA.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Bolivia. Precautions against malaria and yellow fever, if travelling to the Amazon, are suggested, but check with your GP.

Amanda Sweeney, one of Rainbow Tours’ much-travelled South America experts, explains why Bolivia is her favourite country. “When I first went to Bolivia over a decade ago, I was bowled over. The whole of South America is awash with spectacular scenery, but for me it is in Bolivia that it is at its most memorable. Bolivia is much less developed than other South American countries, and the accommodation, though comfortable, is nothing to write home about. However, the dramatic landscapes really take your

breath away, and so much is true wilderness. Luxury in Bolivia means the luxury of being the only people for miles and miles.

Whether Lake Titicaca is best viewed from the Bolivian or Peruvian side is an ongoing debate. But if you want vast, sweeping views of the electric blue waters untouched by any kind of development, then Bolivia wins hands down!

Another real highlight for me was visiting the Urus Iruitos community on the floating reed islands. Our local agent provides support for these communities, so that they can continue their

traditional lifestyle, much as they’ve done for thousands of years.

But my favourite place in Bolivia has to be the Salar de Uyuni salt flats. They’re dazzling, beautiful and eerie all at the same time – and you can even see the curvature of the earth. The salt hotel, Luna Salada, is a lot of fun: everything, including the furniture, is made from salt.”

Bolivia

Things to do in Bolivia: Explore La Paz Experience the Uyuni salt flats See the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca Spend time in Sucre Take on the Bolivian Amazon from Yungas


La Paz La Paz is the administrative capital of Bolivia, but despite its mixture of colonial and modern, it retains the most indigenous flavour of all Latin American cities. Situated high up in the Andes in a steep-sided bowl with buildings perched on the side of the hills, you will still see Indian women in traditional dress in the markets and find colourful textiles and alpaca woollens at a bargain price. The Valley of the Moon, an area of unusual sandstone monoliths that has been shaped by the winds over many centuries, lies to the south of the city and is well worth a visit.

Sucre The charming colonial city of Sucre, (the official capital city of Bolivia) is known as ‘La Ciudad Blanca’ because of its whitewashed buildings. Its centre has many buildings dating back to the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries such as the Casa de la Libertad, the cathedral and one of the earliest South American universities founded in 1624. These buildings have led to Sucre being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not far from Sucre is the town of Tarabuco where every Sunday a colourful market takes place, which is regarded as one of the most authentic in South America. The market is a great place to barter for locally woven goods such as ponchos.

Potosi The discovery of silver (and tin) in the sixteenth century led to the rapid expansion of Potosi which became at one time the largest city in the Americas. Although no longer a boom town, the city retains much of its colonial heritage and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It has an abundance of churches and the Mint, which produced silver coins for the Spanish empire is well worth a visit. On a hill outside the city, silver is still mined and it is possible to make a brief visit inside these mines, though this is not for the claustrophobic!

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Bolivian Towns


Spectacular Southern BoliviaUyuni Salt Flats

Luna Salada Hotel

From £35B/B

Luna Salada (literally meaning ‘salt moon’) has to be one of the most extraordinary hotels in the world, as it is almost entirely constructed of rock salt. Overlooking spectacular salt flats, the floors are strewn with colourful woven rugs over rock salt gravel and much of the furniture is carved from salt, which is also mined nearby. Comfortable en suite rooms and a cosy restaurant complete this unique experience, a tranquil spot from which to start your 4WD explorations.

Sunglasses and sun cream are essential as you journey by 4WD

across a blinding white salt crust, bordered by azure blue skies and small islands dotted with giant cacti, to great expanses of red desert, where mineral rich and vividly coloured lakes support flocks of rare James’ flamingos.

This is a remote, sparsely populated region with no luxury accommodation but the wild and beautiful landscapes are sure to capture your imagination. The best months to visit this region are from April to November, but be warned,

temperatures at night on the high Altiplano can drop sharply in the winter months of June to August.

If you are travelling from La Paz to Uyuni, you now have the opportunity to fly to Uyuni instead of a three hour drive followed by a five hour train journey. From Potosi, the drive to Uyuni takes around five hours. Apart from journeying on the salt flats, you will also see how the salt is produced on a visit to the hard-working local community in Colchani.

The salt flats south of Uyuni are part of the Altiplano which reaches across from Bolivia into the north of Chile, and are the largest in the world. The breathtaking and unusual landscapes high up in the Andes are truly spectacular.

Bolivia

Ecuador

AIthough most famous for its off-shore island archipelago, the Galapagos, the mainland also

deserves in-depth exploration. It consists of three regions: the coast, the Andes and the Amazon. The climate is tropically humid in the coastal region and the Amazon, but fresh and temperate in the highlands year-round, where, due to the proximity with the equator, there is little seasonal variation.

Quito, Ecuador’s capital, has a sensitively restored historic area, and is a great base from which to take excursions. Many nearby villages produce a wealth of crafts such as paintings, leatherware, ceramics, baskets, woodcarvings and even bread-dough carvings. Markets throughout the country - the most famous of which is at Otavalo - display the workmanship of Ecuadorian artisans.

Tucked in on the west coast of South America between Peru and Colombia, Ecuador is one of the smallest countries on the continent. However, it is filled to bursting point with fascinating places to discover.

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Otavalo Market

Otavalo

Bolivia

Brazil

Ibarra

Guayaquil

Quito

Cuenca

Avenue of Volcanoes

Colombia

Ecuador

Peru

Galapagos Islands

When to goEcuador can be visited all year round. Being so close to the equator, Quito has no major temperature fluctuations. Temperatures at night become very cold at higher altitudes. Guayaquil on the coast, along with the interior of the Amazon, remain hot and humid all year round.

Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK to Ecuador, so depending on your itinerary, you will fly either via Europe or the USA.

GMT: -5 Hours

Visas British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Ecuador, though if you fly via the US, the ESTA will be compulsory.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Ecuador. Precautions against malaria and yellow fever, if travelling to the Amazon, are suggested, but check with your GP.

Ecuador

Things to do in Ecuador: Buy presents at Otovalo Market Explore Quito’s old town Visit Amazon communities Horse ride in Cotopaxi National Park Relax in colonial Cuenca


Not far from Quito is the Equatorial Monument, which contains a museum that covers many aspects of Ecuadorian history and present day life, and you are also within easy reach of cloud forests, lakes, mountains and volcanoes. South of Quito, you can enjoy magnificent scenery along the Avenue of the Volcanoes leading towards Riobamba and the beautiful colonial city of Cuenca, where Panama hats come from. Close to this area, you can also visit Inca ruins at Ingapirca, Ecuador’s most important archaeological site.

A stay at a jungle lodge deep in the Ecuadorian Amazon is a must for wildlife and bird-watching enthusiasts. Moreover, in our opinion, Ecuador is the best country in which to visit the Amazon and gain an understanding of the indigenous communities living in the rainforest.

Kapawi Lodge

While the Galapagos Islands are likely to be the highlight of any trip, encounters with friendly people in the small towns and villages on the mainland are what makes a tour to Ecuador really memorable.

The Devil’s Nose TrainIn the nineteenth century, the Ecuadorians were determined to link Guayaquil on the coast to Quito, high in the Andes. Two American engineers built a section of railway near Riobamba, up a perpendicular wall of rock, known as the Devil’s Nose. Many lives were lost building what is now known as a masterpiece of engineering. The track zig-zags up the cliff, with an extra extension at each turn. The train advances along the extended track, and then reverses up the next section. It can then go front first up the subsequent section, before reversing up the next, and so on. Thus the train reaches the top without having to actually turn a sharp corner.

Ecuador’s capital city has an impressive location at 2,850 metres above sea level, overlooked by Mount Pichincha.

In recent years considerable restoration work has been undertaken in Quito’s historic colonial centre, which has

made this part of town a joy to explore on foot. Many buildings date from the seventeenth century and highlight the baroque era. Beyond Quito lie a wealth of attractions such as the Equatorial Monument and the spectacular natural beauty of the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Just a short journey from the capital, Otavalo is famous for its traditional and colourful market, which is still important within the local economy and very much a part of traditional life.

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Quito & Otavalo

Hotel Patio Andaluz

From £57B/B

Located in the historic heart of Old Quito, with beautifully restored churches, museums and national monuments just on its doorstep, Hotel Patio Andaluz holds centuries of history within its walls, which date back to the very foundation of the city. The hotel has 32 rooms and suites and a restaurant that serves local and Spanish cuisine. The Patio Andaluz is the perfect choice for those who like to be central and want to spend time exploring the capital’s rich history.

La Mirage Garden Hotel & Spa


Otavalo is just a short journey from the capital and is famous for its traditional and colourful market. Its best hotel is La Mirage, a contemporary Relais & Chateaux property located in the grounds of a 200-year-old hacienda. La Mirage has 23 comfortable rooms and suites, each with its own fireplace, to ensure guests receive a warm welcome. Pamper yourself with luxurious spa treatments or relax in the hotel’s flower-filled gardens where you can also look out for hummingbirds.


Ecuador

Quito & OtavaloThe Avenue of the Volcanoes and Cuenca

Hacienda San Agustín de Callo

From £230Full-board & excursions

If you would like to stay longer in this lush highlands region, great for hiking or horse riding, we recommend San Agustín de Callo. This hacienda was built on the site of an Inca palace and combines Inca stonework with Spanish colonial architecture. Located near Cotopaxi National Park, the hotel has 11 spacious rooms and offers a variety of tours such as trekking, biking, horse riding and fishing. The atmosphere is relaxed and the cuisine fabulous, using fresh local ingredients.

Hacienda el Porvenir

From £60B/B

Staying here will give you a real taste of Ecuadorian ranch life. Set in a stunning location in the shadow of four volcanoes, near Cotopaxi National Park, from the outset this hacienda looks like something from a picture book, with the stables and corrals adding the touches of a real working farm. The range of rooms include simple single rooms to a large ground floor honeymoon suite, with a big brass bed, wood burning stove and outstanding views.

Mansión Alcázar

From £75B/B

The beautiful Mansión Alcázar is a nineteenth century house restored to its original splendour located in the heart of vibrant Cuenca. It has just 11 rooms and three suites, each individually and tastefully decorated with antique furniture pieces. Other facilities include a restaurant and a bar. Service in the hotel is personal and welcoming and for many years now, Mansión Alcázar has maintained its reputation as the best colonial style hotel in the city.

During his travels in the nineteenth century, the German scientist Alexander von Humboldt was so impressed by Mount Cotopaxi and its neighbouring volcanoes, that he christened the area the ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’.

This stunning area stretches for 325 kilometres between a line of 19 volcanoes in the Cordillera

Occidental and 20 volcanoes in the Cordillera Central. At 5,987 metres, Cotopaxi is the world’s highest active volcano. This and the majestic peaks of Tungurahua and the 6,310 metre high Chimborazo can sometimes be spotted above the clouds as you approach Quito by air. The region offers many authentic experiences – Ingapirca Inca ruins, local markets, hacienda accommodation, hiking and horse riding.

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Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest & Cloud Forest

To the east of the Andes lie the tropical lowlands of El Oriente, an unspoiled

wilderness of Amazonian rainforest. To the west is the lush cloud forest which offers excellent bird-watching, attractive waterfalls and superb flora and fauna.

Over the years, a number of wildlife lodges have been discreetly developed to allow visitors the opportunity of witnessing the multitude of birdlife and wildlife that exist here. Excellent local naturalists are on hand to help enhance your understanding of these pristine wildlife zones.

All the lodges we use here are either owned by or directly benefit their local indigenous communities, and each of them provides a truly unique and quite unforgettable experience.

Top tips• Go on one or more night walks as this is when

the forest comes alive. You feel completely surrounded by so many creatures that you can only hear. In the day it can be hard to spot wildlife through the dense vegetation, but at night you can catch the reflection of their eyes in the light cast by your torch.

• Take the time to talk one-on-one with your guide as you will be rewarded with some fascinating insights and stories.

• Go with an open mind as the magic of the Amazon will hit you when you least expect it!


Sacha Lodge


Set within a 2,000 hectare private reserve with 26 thatched rooms, this lodge has a fantastic 275 metre long canopy walkway nearly 30 metres up in the treetops, providing an unbelievable opportunity for bird-watching and wildlife spotting in the rainforest. After a 30 minute flight from Quito to Coca, your wildlife adventure begins during the two hour boat transfer along the Napo River where you can spot many shore birds such as kingfishers and herons.

Huaorani Ecolodge


Deep in the Amazon rainforest, Huaorani Ecolodge offers the chance to sample and learn about the traditional way of life of the Huaorani people, one of the most isolated ethnic groups on earth. Their sustainable tourism project, the Ecolodge has just five traditionally built palm thatched rooms, all screened and with private facilities. Excursions are taken by dugout canoe, or you can hike along trails, learning about the environment and going out after dark to see nocturnal animals.

Kapawi Lodge


Kapawi Lodge is a unique project run in conjunction with the Achuar tribe to promote sustainable resources, preserve nearly two million acres of pristine rainforest and minimise environmental impact, and is one of the most remote, ecologically responsible and culturally sensitive eco-lodges in the world. Accessible only by plane and boat, the nearest town is a ten-day walk away. Achuar craftsmen have built 18 comfortable cabins using local materials and upgraded furnishings to appeal to the tastes and requirements of today’s traveller.

Ecuador

Napo Wildlife Centre


The award-winning Napo Wildlife Centre is owned by the local community, the Anangu Kichua. It is an eco-tourism project that includes the conservation of approximately 53,500 acres of the most pristine Amazon rainforest within the Yasunì National Park, an important UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. A number of excursions and activities are included, such as a visit to the centre’s parrot and macaw clay lick, which is rich in natural minerals.

The Galapagos Islands

Lying 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands offer a trip of a lifetime for nature lovers. With its unique ecosystem, the archipelago has some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife on both land and water.

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Charles Darwin formulated his theory of evolution following close study of the

fauna he found on the Galapagos Islands. They are truly a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. You can expect close encounters with many species, including iguanas, albatross, blue-footed boobies, flamingos, giant tortoises, hammerhead sharks, manta rays and sea lions. If you wish to see a particular species at a particular time of year, then do ask us for advice on when to go and which island to visit.

A wildlife expedition to the islands is an incredible journey of discovery and adventure, which will bring you literally face to face with inquisitive land and marine mammals and birds. The best way to see how species have evolved on different

Sante Fé

Espanola

North Seymour

Bartolome

Floreana

Fernandina

Isabela

Rabida

Santiago

Tortuga

Santa Cruz

Equator

San Cristobal

When to goThe Galapagos Islands can be visited all year round. The temperatures are warmer between January and May, when there is also a greater chance of rain. In the latter half of the year, the weather is cooler. From the end of August for a month or so, the seas can be choppier; also at this time of year a sea mist can restrict visibility.

Getting there Daily flights operate from Quito and Guayaquil on the Ecuadorean mainland to both Baltra and San Cristobal islands. Your flights are arranged in accordance with your cruise schedule.

GMT: -6 hours

Visas The Galapagos Islands are part of Ecuador and no visas are required.

Health There are no compulsory health requirements for visiting the Galapagos Islands.


Things to do in the Galapagos: Swim with sea lions and turtles Watch a blue-footed booby dance Walk with a giant tortoise Visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre Sip cocktails at sunset on your boat


islands is to take a cruise. There are different boat sizes and cruise lengths to suit your needs. For example, some companies operate family-oriented cruises. In order to enhance your experience, the Galapagos National Park authorities limit the number of visitors to each island to just 100 per day, in groups no larger than 20.

A Galapagos cruise will appeal to wildlife lovers, snorkellers and those interested in photography. If you want to visit the islands without spending too much time on a boat, some hotels in the archipelago, such as the Finch

Bay, operate day excursions to nearby islands. If you’d prefer to explore on foot, a limited number of walking tours operates on Isabela Island.

In 1835, Charles Darwin arrived in the Galapagos Islands on board the HMS Beagle. He soon noticed the same thing that amazes travellers today, namely that many of the animals that roam the shores of the Galapagos, swim in its seas and fly among the islands, were unique. What struck him was not just that the birds, plants and reptiles were different from those on the mainland, but also that they were distinct from ones on neighbouring islands. The observations Darwin made during his five weeks in the archipelago played a vital part in his theory of evolution.

Galapagos Cruising

The boats featured here range from those with a capacity of 20 passengers to the maximum of 100. The mid-sized to larger boats (carrying between 40 and 100 passengers) will generally have more public facilities such as lounges and Jacuzzis.

However, the larger the boat, the longer it may take for embarking and disembarking for shore excursions. The smaller boats have

the advantage of landing at islands such as Tower Island where you can see red-footed boobies. They can also sail closer to shore and visit isolated bays.

All schedules are carefully co-ordinated and many will be changing for 2012, with the likelihood of fewer shorter cruises. On a typical day, the first excursion might start after an early breakfast and is likely to last for several hours. Passengers then return to the boat before it moves onto the next island or visitor site.

In the afternoon there will be another landing and again, several hours spent ashore. At some visitor sites, a choice of activity may be offered, for example the chance to go snorkelling to seek out underwater life, whilst others can opt for a glass-bottomed boat tour. In the evening, dinner is preceded by a talk by the boat’s naturalist reviewing the day, and also previewing the next day.

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Finch Bay Eco Hotel

From £740 per person for a 3-night packageFull-board & excursions

For those who wish to experience the Galapagos but don’t have particularly good sea-legs, this is a great choice. Named after the famous and abundant Darwin’s finches, the hotel is close to Puerto Ayora, the main port town on Santa Cruz Island and the location of the Charles Darwin Research Station. Twenty-one comfortable rooms and six ocean view suites are complemented by the pool and outdoor Jacuzzi. Many options for multisport activities are available for guests not wishing to take a yacht excursion to visit nearby islands.

Galapagos Safari Camp


Galapagos Safari Camp is a new way to see the Galapagos. Whether you are staying on after a cruise or want to experience the islands from the comfort of land, the Galapagos Safari Camp follows the African safari tradition where guests can take full enjoyment of the surrounding natural beauty from one of the nine luxury tents. The camp is situated on the island of Santa Cruz and offers magnificent views over the Pacific Ocean as well as Isabela, Santiago, Baltra and Rabida islands.



La Pinta

La Pinta commenced sailing in the Galapagos in 2008 and soon established herself as one of the islands’ top vessels. Sixty-three metres long, this mid-sized boat accommodates up to 48 passengers in 24 well-furnished cabins located on two out of the three public decks. Offering a relaxed yet lavish expedition atmosphere, the ship’s facilities include an attractive bar and dining room where you can enjoy tropical juices and sumptuous food. Additionally, La Pinta has a library, sundeck, three inflatable landing craft and a glass-bottomed boat.

Galapagos Explorer II

For those who feel more comfortable on a larger boat, the Galapagos Explorer II is a good choice. With capacity for 100 passengers in 50 suites spread over five decks, this boat probably has the best facilities of all those that we feature in the Galapagos, including a library, bar, conference room, restaurant, Jacuzzi, solarium, observatory deck, massage suite and internet centre. Expert naturalist guides focus on the Galapagos natural history. All soaps, detergents and shampoos are biodegradable.

M/V Santa Cruz

The M/V Santa Cruz has been a popular cruise boat for visitors to the Galapagos Islands over the last three decades. She accommodates 90 passengers in 43 cabins, which along with the rest of the boat are air conditioned. The team of six guides includes a Chief Naturalist who, besides leading the shore excursions, also presents talks in the evenings, reviews the day’s sightings, and previews the next day’s activities in an informative and entertaining fashion. Facilities include snorkelling equipment and a glass-bottomed boat for non-swimmers.

M.V. Eclipse

The Eclipse is a first-class ship with the feel of a small yacht, comfortably accommodating 48 passengers and offering a choice of spacious air-conditioned cabins with portholes, and superior and deluxe stateroom cabins with picture windows. The two dedicated single cabins allow solo travellers to pay a much smaller supplement than on other similar boats. The Eclipse has been awarded the Smart Voyager green seal of approval by the Rainforest Alliance, has a crew of 31 and up to four naturalist guides. Alfresco dining is also offered on deck.

Eric, Letty and Flamingo

This flotilla of sister ships each has the capacity for 20 passengers in ten outside cabins. Although they sail together, shore excursions are still arranged in small groups, led by a naturalist guide in a maximum group size of ten, one of the best guide-to-guest ratios in the Galapagos. The boat owners have been at the forefront of conservation projects in the islands, being the first carbon neutral operator. Facilities on each of the boats include a dining room, well-stocked bar and conference area with a flat screen TV.

Endemic to Latin America’s Pacific Islands, the graphically named blue-footed booby is possibly the Galapagos’ most famous inhabitant, and if you are lucky you may see a special booby ritual, one of the bird world’s greatest mating dances!

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Explore the Amazon Rainforest and meet the communities who live there. Experience the spectacular beauty of the Avenue of the Volcanoes and Cotopaxi National Park, as well as the beautiful colonial towns of Cuenca and Quito. You can also take a ride on the Devil’s Nose Train, an incredible feat of engineering. Ecuador is a very special country and this itinerary shows just what it can offer.

DAy 1

Take the daytime flight to Quito, arriving in the evening, for a 2 night stay. In the afternoon enjoy a tour of this interesting colonial city

DAy 2

Explore the old squares and cobbled streets of Quito as well as visiting some of the city’s numerous old cathedrals and churches. A half-day tour is included

Prices from £3150 per person sharing, including international flights, transfers and breakfast throughout, except for your stay in the Amazon which is full-board.

Ecuador ExplorerQuito – Amazon – Cotopaxi – Riobamba – Cuenca – Guayaquil

DAy 3

Fly to the Amazon and transfer by boat to the Napo Wildlife Centre. Check into your luxury rainforest lodge

DAyS 4-5

Free days to explore the Amazon jungle on foot or by canoe and take part in any number of the included activities such as piranha fishing and night walks

DAy 6

Fly back to Quito and visit Otavalo and its indigenous market. This is a great place to buy presents

DAy 7

Head to the spectacular Cotapaxi National Park, which is home to the Cotopaxi Volcano

DAy 8

Transfer to Riobamba

DAy 9

Spend the day on the Devil’s Nose Train, an incredible feat of engineering, and later transfer to Cuenca

DAy 10

Free day to explore Cuenca’s beautiful streets and buildings or take an optional tour to the ruins of Ingapirca

DAy 11

Transfer by road to Guayaquil Ecuador’s second city and explore the old coastal port

DAy 12

Take the overnight flight from Guayaquil to London Heathrow via Madrid.

A magical 12-day trip that showcases Ecuador’s array of natural beauty and the indigenous cultures of the Amazon and Andes.

Cotopaxi

Bolivia

Brazil

Riobamba

Quito

Cuenca

Colombia

Ecuador

Peru

Amazon

Guayaquil

Otavalo


This wonderful trip of a lifetime brings together Ecuador’s colonial treasures of Quito and Cuenca, as well as experiencing an unforgettable cruise around the Galapagos Islands. On this trip you are driven between locations and can stop along the way as you choose. An Amazon extension can be added to the start of this itinerary.

DAy 1

Fly to Quito on the daytime flight, arriving in the evening. Transfer to the Hotel Patio Andaluz, located in the historic centre

DAy 2

Morning tour of historic Quito and visit to the Equatorial Monument - experience life on both sides of the equator at one time!

DAy 3

Travel along one of the most beautiful routes in South America, the Avenue of the Volcanoes, past spectacular backdrops, including Cotopaxi. Overnight in Riobamba

DAy 4

Ride the Devil’s Nose Train as it chugs along one of the world’s great railways, and afterwards continue on to Cuenca where you stay at the boutique Mansión Alcázar

DAy 5

Half-day sightseeing tour of colonial Cuenca and its thriving indigenous cultures

Prices from £4085 per person sharing, including international flights and breakfast throughout, except on the cruise which is full-board.

Ecuador ExplorerQuito – Amazon – Cotopaxi – Riobamba – Cuenca – Guayaquil

Ecuador & Galapagos IslandsQuito – Riobamba – Guayaquil – Galapagos Islands

DAy 6

Transfer from Cuenca to Guayaquil where the Hilton Colon is your overnight base

DAy 7

Fly to the Galapagos Islands to embark on your cruise on either Eric, Letty or Flamingo

DAyS 8-13

Spend your days on one of life’s great journeys, a cruise around the Galapagos Islands. Take daily excursions ashore to encounter wildlife with your expert naturalist guides

DAy 14

Disembark and return by air to Guayaquil for an overnight stay at the Hilton Colon

DAy 15

Free day before taking the overnight flight home via Madrid

DAy 16

Arrive in London the following morning.

A 15-day trip that explores the colonial highlights of mainland Ecuador and takes you on a cruise around the world-renowned Galapagos Islands.

Galapagos Islands

Bolivia

Brazil

Guayaquil

Quito

Cuenca

Colombia

Ecuador

Peru

Riobamba

Ecuador

Colombia

Colombia’s capital Bogota, nestled high in the Andes, is one of the great Latin American cities. You might

also want to visit Cali, which is often referred to as the world’s salsa capital, and head over to the Pacific coast to stay in stunning and remote beachside lodges. Another of the country’s major highlights is Tayrona National Park, where pristine white-sand beaches have back-drops of hills covered in untamed tropical forest.

Historic Cartagena, on the Caribbean coast, is the jewel in Colombia’s crown. In its old quarter, many colonial mansions have been carefully restored and turned into attractive boutique hotels, sophisticated restaurants and wine bars. The city has a relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and in the balmy evenings

After years of being overlooked as a tourist destination, Colombia is enjoying something of a revival. It’s a vibrant and exciting place to go on holiday, with wonderful coastlines, Spanish colonial cities, pre-Colombian ruins, spectacular national parks and coffee farms. Colombia’s people have a zest for life, and the rhythms of salsa and merengue are never far away.

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Cartagena

Cartagena

Venezuela

Paraguay

Argentina

Uruguay

Brazil

Peru

Medellin

Chile

Cali

Pereira

Colombia

Ecuador

Bogota

When to goColombia can be visited all year round and has a hot and humid climate in all areas, unless you are visiting areas at altitude, such as Bogota. Rain is likely to occur at any time throughout the year, but is more pronounced towards the end of the year.

Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK to Colombia, with the most widely used option of flying with Iberia via Madrid.

GMT: -5 Hours

Visas British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Colombia.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Colombia, however precautions against malaria if travelling to wildlife regions are suggested, but check with your GP.

Colombia

Things to do in Colombia: Relax in Tayrona National Park Explore Cartagena’s old town Experience Colombia’s coffee triangle Take a trip to San Andres Island Dance in Cali, the capital of salsa

Charlie Hargreaves from Four Corners PR travelled extensively in Latin America in 2009-2010.She loved it all, but says that it was Colombia that had the most profound effect and left her longing to return.

“It’s so easy to see why Colombia is fast becoming a must-see destination for all discerning travellers. Not only does it offer a huge variety of experiences, but we also found it to be home to wonderfully warm, passionate people, keen to share their history and culture.

Bogota is as cool, cosmopolitan and easy to explore as Paris or New York and with boutique shopping to match. We loved its Latin side, discovering the hidden markets and

cafés of La Candelaria. In historic Cartagena, the culture of music and dance is everywhere and you only need to venture just outside the walled city to join the locals dancing the night away at packed salsa bars.

Beyond the cities, stepping off the beaten track brings massive rewards. A highlight of our trip was a day spent riding horses to the pre-Colombian ruins at the San Agustín UNESCO World Heritage Site; nearby you can stay on organic coffee farms and bathe in waterfalls. And where better to reflect on an amazing trip than lazing in a hammock on the beautiful Caribbean beaches of the Tayrona National Park – bliss.”www.fourcornerspr.co.uk

Colombians and visitors alike stroll along the narrow streets, or take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage along the seafront.

After decades of producing world-famous coffee beans, Colombia now offers fantastic opportunities to experience these working coffee farms. You can both learn about coffee production and relax in magnificent coffee houses and haciendas that now double up as beautiful hotels.

Call 020 7666 1260 | rainbowtours.co.uk | Visit your local travel agent

Bogota & the Coffee Region

Bogota these days with the recent opening of many new hotels,

restaurants and shopping complexes is completely cosmopolitan. In contrast, the Spanish colonial district of La Candelaria has pretty courtyards and fine architecture. The renowned Gold Museum is here, each corridor displaying a different episode from Colombian history.

Nearby, the Botero Museum exhibits works by Colombia’s most famous artist. Above the city is the sanctuary of Monserrate, accessible by cable car, which offers spectacular views of the city. To the north of the city, the underground salt cathedral at Zipaquira is another highlight. Farther afield is the pretty old town of Villa de Leyva.

Colombian coffee is known around the world and the country is the world’s third largest producer. There are several main coffee production areas and one of these is to the west of Pereira. The mineral-rich volcanic soil and higher altitude of this area are the perfect combination for the cultivation of coffee beans. Tours usually include visits to the coffee

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plantations. There are several delightful places to stay in this region including the charming Hacienda Bambusa, nestled in a scenic landscape with wonderful mountain views.


Colombia

Things to do in Bogota & the Coffee Region: Take in the Candelaria area of Bogota Visit the underground Zipaquira Salt Cathedral Stay in an old coffee hacienda Learn about the coffee industry Visit the town of Villa de Leyva

Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia

From £114B/B

This comfortable Sofitel in Bogota, located 15km from the El Dorado airport and five km from the city centre, is only a few steps from a variety of malls, luxurious boutiques and restaurants. All of the Sofitel’s rooms have air-conditioning and it’s one of the most popular places to stay in Bogota – we regularly recommend it. It has good facilities including the exclusive Basilica restaurant that serves delicious Mediterranean and Colombian cuisine, a fitness centre, Jacuzzi, sauna and massage area.

Hotel de la Opera

From £80B/B

With 43 rooms, excellent service and an indoor swimming pool, Hotel de la Opera would be fantastic even without its ideal location in the centre of La Candeleria district of Bogota. The hotel used to be two colonial mansions, previously used as a hospital and a library. With impeccable service and a good restaurant serving Mediterranean food, a stay here gives visitors a unique insight into life in Bogota before the financial institutions and skyscrapers moved in.

Hacienda Bambusa

From £60B/B

A classic two storey hacienda built in guadua (bamboo), Hacienda Bambusa is set within the coffee region’s most scenic landscapes, surrounded by plantain farms and cattle pastures, with far reaching views over the central mountain range. It has eight bedrooms with private bathrooms, some with balconies and a hammock, with views to the swimming pool or the mountain. With its rich history, spectacular location and traditional styling, Hacienda Bambusa is a charming base from which to explore this famous region.

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Caribbean Coastline Cartagena & Tayrona National Park

La Merced Hotel Boutique

From £135B/B

This lovely boutique hotel is located in the Plaza de la Merced in Cartagena’s historic centre, adjacent to both the imposing Teatro Heredia and the Convento de la Merced. A former mansion built in the eighteenth century, each of the hotel’s eight rooms is very comfortable. Take advantage of the organised city tours and boat trips on the Caribbean Sea, and relax in the pool overlooking the ocean, or at the end of the day in the Don Saba lounge.

Casa India Catalina

From £66B/B

The Casa India Catalina is a fantastic and affordable boutique hotel from which to experience the old world charm of Cartagena. A restored colonial building situated on an important historic street within the walls of Cartagena’s old town, it offers a pool in the internal patio overlooked by two strands of wooden balconies, and welcoming communal areas. All 16 bedrooms have air-conditioning, and most have balconies overlooking the old city.

The Eco Habs

From £150B/B

Our favourite place to stay in the Tayrona National Park are the Eco Habs. These cabins are constructed using natural materials in the style of the houses inhabited by the local indigenous tribe, the Tayrona. Perched on the forest-clad hills, the Eco Habs have magnificent views over the Caribbean coast and are linked by wooden walkways. All cabins have balconies and hammocks, as well as private bathrooms. The Eco Habs are the best place from which to experience the park.

Cartagena is Colombia’s ‘must see’ destination. Founded in 1533,

Cartagena soon became one of Spain’s richest Caribbean possessions. News of its wealth attracted the unwelcome attention of pirates who attacked the city over many years. The city was fortified to try to repel these attacks and today it is possible to walk on the city wall.

The historic old centre, a designated World Heritage Site, is a treasure-trove of narrow streets, Andalusian-style palaces and colonial-style houses with their ornate balconies, ideal for exploring.

Further up the Caribbean coast from Categena, Tayrona National Park is located near the city of Santa Marta. Stay in one of the Eco Habs where you can go on guided treks through the dense jungle, book a snorkelling trip or relax on one of the unspoilt beaches.


Caribbean Coastline Cartagena & Tayrona National Park

Colombia Highlights Bogota – Villa de Leyva – Coffee Region Tayrona National Park – Cartagena

This 12-day itinerary is an excellent introduction to some of Colombia’s colonial towns, cultural gems and natural beauty.

Starting in Colombia’s capital, Bogota, you can explore the old and new districts, and then head to the highlands of the coffee region, home to some of the world’s best- loved coffee beans. Take a flight to Colombia’s Caribbean coast where you can relax on the tropical beaches of Tayrona National Park, lapped by crystal clear waters, before heading off to explore Colombia’s colonial highlight, Cartagena.

DAy 1

Fly from London via Madrid to Bogota, staying for 2 nights in this modern and vibrant city still awash with Colombian cultural delights

DAy 2

Spend the day sightseeing, visiting the famous Gold Museum and the sanctuary at Monserrate, accessible by cable car, with incredible views back over the city

DAy 3

Drive via the underground salt cathedral at Zipaquira to the pretty town of Villa de Leyva, staying at the Posada de San Antonio

DAy 4

Return to Bogota and fly to Pereira for a 3-night stay in Colombia’s coffee triangle

DAy 5

Visit a coffee plantation and experience firsthand how the coffee industry works

DAy 6

Full-day sightseeing in the beautiful Cocora Valley. Explore the park on horseback, by foot or spend time relaxing in the gorgeous surroundings

DAyS 7-9

Fly to Santa Marta and on to Tayrona National Park for 3 nights. Enjoy the crystal clear waters and white beaches, all with a tropical forest backdrop

DAy 10

Fly to Cartagena and stay 3 nights in Colombia’s jewel in the crown. Enjoy the amazing sights and sounds within Cartagena’s old town walls, including a city tour

DAy 11

Free time in Cartagena. Take an optional tour to the Rosario Islands

DAy 12

Free time in Cartagena

DAy 13

Fly to Bogota and continue by overnight flight via Madrid to London.


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Santa Marta

Venezuela offers an enormous amount for holidaymakers looking for somewhere different and little visited - from spectacular waterfalls and mountains to abundant wildlife and white-sand Caribbean beaches.

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Venezuela

Angel Falls

Merida Venezuela

Paraguay

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Uruguay

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Santa ElenaColombia

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Guyana

Suriname FrenchGuiana

In the Gran Sabana, you can climb table-top mountains, or tepuys,

and gawp at the world’s highest waterfall, the Angel Falls. To the north, you can travel by dugout canoe on the mighty Orinoco River with its fertile delta and lush flora. Over to the west, you can stroll through the cobbled streets of Merida and then cross breathtaking Andean scenery towards Barinas, where you can discover by 4WD or on horseback the abundant wildlife of the ‘llanos’ (vast open plains).

When you have had enough of adventure on a Venezuelan holiday, you can relax on any number of palm-fringed beaches along its Caribbean coast. Our favourite spot is the archipelago of Los Roques, which has simple posadas along with great snorkelling and diving. But there are lots of other places to go on the long coastline.

When to goVenezuela can be visited all year round and has a hot and humid climate in all areas, unless you are visiting areas at altitude. Rain is likely to occur at any time throughout the year, but is more pronounced towards the end of the year.

Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK to Venezuela and you are likely to fly with Iberia via Madrid.

GMT: -4.5

Visas British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Venezuela.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Venezuela. Precautions against malaria, if travelling to wildlife regions, are suggested, but check with your GP.

Venezuela

Things to do in Venezuela: Explore the Lost World of Canaima National Park Stand under the Angel Falls Horse ride in Los Llanos Relax on the beaches of Los Roques Visit the town of Merida


Venezuela’s beachesCreated in 1972 to protect this beautiful marine ecosystem, Los Roques archipelago is Venezuela’s most well known beach destination. Its coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds support a multitude of marine life. The country does however offer an impressive array of options for all types of beach holidays including Choroni, Cumana and the Mochima National Park on the mainland coast. For a more lively scene, with cafés, bars and restaurants, Margarita Island, known as the ‘Pearl of the Caribbean,’ is situated 38 km northeast of the mainland of Venezuela and is a well developed resort.

Margarita Island

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Los Llanos If you are interested in wildlife, then a visit to the vast savannahs of Los Llanos is a must. Apart from more than 300 species of birds – scarlet ibis, hoatzin, screamers, soldier storks and roseate spoonbills to name a few – the region is home to multitudes of capybara and caiman as well as anteaters and anacondas. With some luck you may see jaguars and ocelots.

The best way to see this region is by staying at a ranch or ‘hato’. Hato El Cedral is a working cattle ranch which also has 25 air-conditioned chalets and organises a variety of wildlife-sighting excursions.

Beaches After your trek, you may wish to relax on an idyllic white-sand beach, lapped by the the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean coast. You are spoiled for choice in Venezuela, though we would highlight the Los Roques archipelago, with miles of pristine beaches within a large marine national park.

There is also Moroccoy’s beautiful coastline studded with lagoons and home to pink flamingos. Surrounding coral islands have white-sand beaches and are good for snorkelling. Choroni is a charming colonial village on the edge of the Henri Pittier National Park, near to the lovely palm fringed beach of Playa Grande.

Canaima National Park & the Caribbean Coast

Within Canaima you will find the world’s highest waterfall, the Angel Falls, which cascades for almost a kilometre before meeting the rainforest floor.

Weather permitting, you can fly over the falls in a light aircraft or go on an expedition to the base of the falls in motorised canoes. The landscapes and ‘table-top’ mountains of Canaima inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s Lost World. There are several places to stay and our preferred choice is the palm-thatched Waku Lodge on the shores of the lovely Canaima lagoon. Its 15 comfortable rooms enjoy a gorgeous setting amidst tropical gardens overlooking a pink sand beach and the lagoon.


The Lost World & Los RoquesCaracas – Canaima National Park – Angel Falls Orinoco Delta – Los Roques

Prices from £2595 per personsharing, including international and domestic flights and breakfast throughout.

Venezuela

DAy 1

Fly to Venezuela’s capital Caracas, via Europe

DAy 2

From Caracas, make your way into the lost world of Canaima National Park, home to the Angel Falls

DAy 3

Paddle your canoes up the Carrao river and hike through virgin rainforest until you come to the base of the Angel Falls

DAy 4

Return to Canaima Lagoon

DAy 5

From Canaima make your way into the Orinoco Delta, a maze of waterways carrying the water from the mighty Orinoco River all the way to the Atlantic

DAy 6

Explore the Orinoco Delta. Experience the lives of the Warao Indians who call this delta home

DAy 7

Make the journey back to Caracas for one night

DAyS 8-10

Spend the next three days relaxing on the stunning white beaches of the Los Roques archipelago, staying on Gran Roque, the only inhabited island where most of the streets are made of sand and houses are decorated in bright, joyful colours

DAy 11

Return to Caracas and continue your onward journey back to the UK.

This 11-day itinerary takes you to the lost world of Canaima National Park and the Angel Falls, the Orinoco Delta and the stunning Caribbean islands of Los Roques.

Canaima National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, truly is a different world. Roughly 65% of the park is covered by tepui, or table-top mountains, formations which constitute a unique biogeological entity. The sheer cliffs and waterfalls, including Angel Falls, the world’s highest at 979 metres, form a spectacular landscape. Follow this with the waterways of the fan-shaped Orinoco Delta and learn about the area from the indigenous Indians, who call these amazing wetlands home. Finish your holiday by relaxing on the beautiful white sands and clear blue waters of the Los Roques archipelago.

Ocelot

GuyanaPossessing some of the most dramatic rainforest and mountain scenery in the tropics, English-speaking Guyana is one of the last true wildernesses on the planet.

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Jaguar

Venezuela

Uruguay

Brazil

Columbia

Ecuador

Georgetown

Guyana

Suriname FrenchGuiana

Iwokrama

Surama

Karanambu

KaieteurFalls

Travelling in Guyana may not be as comfy as elsewhere

in the Americas. However, the experiences that await hold few equals. Guyana has incredible, pristine rainforests, open savannahs and spectacular waterfalls, not to mention vast populations of exotic wildlife and birdlife.

Here it is possible to see the ‘neo-tropical Big Five’ - jaguar, giant river otter, giant anteater, black caiman and harpy eagle. Guyana is also home to such diverse highlights as Kaieteur Falls, Iwokrama Conservation Centre, and Diane McTurk’s orphanage for giant otters.

When to goWith its hot and humid climate, Guyana can be visited all year round. Rain can occur at any time throughout the year, but it is more pronounced towards the latter months.

Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK to Guyana and you are most likely to fly via Barbados or Trinidad in the Caribbean.

GMT: -4 hours

Visas British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Guyana.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Guyana. Precautions against malaria, if travelling to wildlife regions, are suggested, but check with your GP.

In the early 1980s, Diane McTurk made the bold decision to open Karanambu, her family’s cattle ranch, to the few tourists that ventured into the savannah and wetlands of Guyana’s interior. It was also around this time that this inspirational woman started to care for injured and orphaned wildlife - and in particular for the giant otter, or waterdogs as they are called in Guyana. Diane has since become a world expert on the rehabilitation of giant otters, and in Karanambu Lodge she has created a unique opportunity for adventurous travellers to experience wildlife and habitat conservation at work.

Guyana

Things to do in Guyana: See the giant otters at Karanambu View the mighty Kaietur Falls Meet indigenous communities Stay at Iwokrama Conservation Centre Try to spot the elusive jaguar


While Guyana has a growing reputation as a wildlife paradise, it also offers an incredible opportunity to travel amongst, and learn from, indigenous communities who live in the rainforest. The country’s tourism infrastructure is a heart-warming example of community tourism at work. Many of the Amerindian tribes have embraced tourism and offer visitors accommodation and the opportunity to participate in activities with the community.

One of the highlights of Guyana is the Iwokrama International Centre where research is carried out into the conservation of the rainforest.

The Iwokrama forest’s eco-system teems with plant

species as well as animal species that are under threat. Guests stay here at the Field Station which has a number of comfortable thatched cabins, all with private facilities. From Iwokrama there are opportunities to spot jaguar, Harpy eagle and black caiman (at night), or to trek to Turtle Mountain. The Iwokrama forest also has a 30 metre high canopy walkway from where you can view the treetops and listen to the dawn chorus.

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Iwokrama Conservation Centreand the Giant River Otter Orphanage

Karanambu Lodge Karanambu Lodge lies within the north savannah grassland and is home to Diane McTurk and her Giant River Otter Orphanage. Diane hosts guests at the ranch and has many a fascinating story to tell over dinner. Her work has attracted worldwide attention and the money raised by visitors goes towards protection of these magnificent animals.

Harpy Eagle The Harpy eagle is the one of the largest birds in the world. The name is thought to be derived from a mythical bird of prey, referred to by Aristotle. The Harpie was a winged creature with a woman’s face and ferocious claws. The modern day Harpy can have talons as big as a grizzly bear’s!


Guyana Nature ExperienceGeorgetown – Iwokrama – Surama – Rupununi Karanambu Yapukari – Georgetown

DAy 1

Fly from London via the Caribbean to Georgetown for 2 nights at Cara Lodge, one of the oldest and grandest structures in town

DAy 2

Excursion by light aircraft to the majestic Kaiteur Falls, with incredible views over the Guyana Shield, the name for Guyana’s vast rainforest

DAyS 3-11

For the next 10 days, immerse yourself in Guyana’s rainforests and savannahs. Visit local communities, enjoy boat rides, spot birdlife and wildlife, take hikes and climb canopy walkways. Your itinerary takes you to Iwokrama, Surama and Karanambu. Learn about giant river otters and black caiman, a relative of the crocodile. You will travel mainly by 4WD vehicles and light aircraft

DAy 12

Venture into the savannah in search of the giant anteater. Later, travel to Caiman House where research is carried out on black caiman. See these reptiles caught, measured, weighed, sexed and tagged with a chip. Other activities include bird-watching, river trips and visits to the local village to meet the children and local craftspeople

DAy 13

Return to Georgetown for an overnight stay at the Cara Lodge

DAy 14

Fly via the Caribbean back to the UK, arriving the next day.

This 2-week group tour takes in the incredible scenic, cultural and wildlife highlights that Guyana has to offer.

You will see breathtaking natural wonders including the Kaiteur Falls, a magnificent waterfall plunging over a cliff, the Iwokrama forest and research centre, a unique project providing a dedicated site in which to test the concept of a truly sustainable forest; and Karanambu, a nature lover’s paradise and home to giant river otters. This trip also enables you to meet indigenous communities who live in Guyana’s forest.

Prices from £3995 per personsharing, including international flights and many meals throughout the trip.

Guyana

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GeorgetownGuyana

Iwokrama

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KaiteurFalls

Central America:My ultimate destination

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Central America:My ultimate destination

Simon Forster is Rainbow Tours’ Product Manager for Central America. He has travelled extensively throughout the region, and lived for a while in Nicaragua. Here he explains his love affair with Central America, and picks out his favourite parts.

I may be biased, but I believe Central America is the ultimate travel destination. How so? Well, can you think of anywhere else on the planet where you can spend the morning climbing an active volcano, the afternoon wandering around a beautiful old colonial town, and by teatime be sipping cocktails on a gorgeous beach? Add to the mix incredible wildlife, magical ruins, and the countries’ fascinating and often revolutionary histories, and this compact part of the world punches well above its size in terms of travel highlights. Here are my top recommendations for where to go.

For families With older children, I’d pick out Costa Rica. You can pack an awful lot into a ten-night trip - crossing hanging bridges over rainforest canopies, bathing in volcano-heated springs, learning about chocolate making, visiting a sugar mill and coffee plantation, and still have time for mucking around on a white-sand beach. Thanks to being relatively small and having good-quality hotels, Costa Rica is less challenging for travellers than some other Central American countries.

With young children, I suggest Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. There are great, family-friendly beach hotels around Cancun, from which you can make easy excursions to iconic Mayan sites such as Chichen Itza.

For beach and dive bums Want a beach hotel with impressive facilities? Then head for the Yucatan or Costa Rica’s Guancaste coast. For top diving, make a beeline for the fish-

teeming reefs off Belize’s Ambergris Caye and Honduras’ Bay Islands. Feeling intrepid? Consider Nicaragua’s remote and undeveloped Corn Islands.

For culture vultures With the extraordinary Mayan ruins of Tikal deep in the jungle, plus some of the most colourful, indigenous markets in Latin America - such as at Chichicastenango - Guatemala fits the bill.

For somewhere different Panama is still off the radar for mainstream holidaymakers, though its popularity is certainly on the rise. And rightly so, given its attractions: cruises on the engineering wonder that is the Panama Canal...wildlife-rich highlands and dense rainforests...beach escapes to unspoiled places such as the San Blas Islands, governed by tribes of Kuna Indians...and a cosmopolitan capital with something of the look and style of Miami.

And finally... If you really want to climb a volcano, explore a colonial town and have a cocktail on the beach all on the same day, then go to Nicaragua!


Canopy tram ride, Monteverde Cloud Forest

Mexico

Tours to Mexico usually start in the capital, Mexico City. One of the largest metropolises in the world, it is

somewhere you should definitely spend a few days if you want a rounded picture of the country. Its outstanding Anthropology Museum is reason alone to visit, and ideal preparation for visiting Mexico’s archaeological sites. One of the most memorable, the colossal pre-Aztec city of Teotihuacán with its Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, is an easy day trip.

Tours heading north from Mexico City can take you to the Copper Canyon - a series of awesomely deep and wild canyons that are best experienced on the famous Copper Canyon Railway. Or you can make for Baja California and the Sea of Cortes; between January and March one of the best areas in the Americas for whale watching. You can also take in stunning colonial architecture in the silver mining cities of central Mexico, such as arty San Miguel de Allende and hilly Guanajuato.

Mexico has it all: the ruins of ancient civilisations, a fascinating colonial history, wonderful Pacific and Caribbean beaches, dramatic canyons, steamy jungles, superb cuisine, excellent hospitality - and of course mariachi bands and tequila.

86 Chichen Itza

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Another option is to head to the rugged Pacific coast, although our most popular Mexican tours go southeast to Oaxaca - a delightful city with fine colonial buildings, colourful markets and Zapotec ruins nearby - then on to the Yucatan Peninsula.

No trip to Mexico would be complete without visiting the Yucatan’s major Mayan sites of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, which offer fascinating insights into this ancient Mesoamerican civilisation. You can stay close to the sites, or visit them from the nearby city of Merida, or on day trips from the Riviera Maya - if, that is, you can tear yourself away! Running from Cancun in the north to the picturesque site of Tulum in the south, this coast is lined with a succession of stunning white-sand beaches.

When to goMexico covers a large area and can be visited all year round. It has, within the main, a warm climate. Overall, the period from December to May is the best time to visit. Between July and the end of October, the Yucatan Peninsula can be affected by tropical storms, or occasionally hurricanes.

Getting there British Airways fly non-stop from London Heathrow to Mexico City between three and four times a week, and also from London Gatwick to Cancun.

GMT: -6/-7 hours Mexico City and the Yucatan Peninsula GMT-6. The Copper Canyon and Baja California GMT-7

Visas British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Mexico, though if you fly via the US, the ESTA will be compulsory.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Mexico.

Mexico

A huge range of accommodation options are on offer here. You can stay right behind the beach in a small rustic hotel, a classy boutique property or a large-scale complex offering every facility imaginable. The snorkelling and diving off the coast are superb, and there are ecological reserves in the area.

Things to do in Mexico: Get to know Mexico City and the Anthropology Museum Travel through the Copper Canyon by train Explore Chichen Itza Whale watching in Baja California Eat lots of Mexican food!


The Western, or Gregorian calendar is based on the one invented by the Mayans. The

Pyramid of Kukulkan at Chichen Itza was built as their calendar,

with four stairways each with 91 steps and a platform at the top,

making a total of 365, the number of days in our calendar year. The

Mayans were so advanced in their thinking that many people

are concerned that the Mayan Calendar may herald the end of the

world on 21 December 2012.


Mexico City may be one of the largest cities in the world, but

it is a fascinating start to any Mexican holiday. Visit the Zocalo (main square) where you’ll find the National Palace housing Diego Riviera’s colourful murals, or see the remains of the original Aztec floating city of Tenochtitlan. Stroll around Chapultepec Park and visit the excellent Anthropology Museum. An hour to the north of Mexico City, the impressive pre-Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan are situated, famous for its Pyramids of the Sun and Moon.

To the southeast of Mexico City and easy to reach by plane, Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most popular cities – it’s a delightful mix of the colonial, the indigenous and the ancient, with a large number of fine Spanish buildings and churches.

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Casa Vieja

From £95B/B

Casa Vieja is a luxury all suite boutique hotel situated in the exclusive residential district of Polanco but within easy reach of Chapultepec Park and the main Zocalo. Once a private residence, this hotel is beautifully decorated with typically colourful mosaics and paintings. The ten unique suites are furnished with historic pieces of art and handmade furniture, and in spite of the older feel, the suites boast all the latest modern facilities. Casa Vieja’s restaurant serves Mexican and international dishes.

Casa Catrina

From £59B/B

A former family home, Casa Catrina is situated in the heart of vibrant and colourful Oaxaca. This hotel was designed by a well-known Oaxacan artist which is reflected in its interior styling. The six guestrooms each have an individual colour scheme that is complemented by the local art that is displayed on the walls. All of the rooms are set out around a traditionally styled, colonial courtyard where breakfast is served. The hotel is friendly and offers a high standard of service.

Camino Real Oaxaca

From £75B/B

The Camino Real Oaxaca is a luxurious option, with 91 rooms, situated in the heart of Oaxaca. The hotel is housed in a former convent dating back to 1576. Every aspect showcases the building’s rich history and a stay here feels quite special. The hotel has a lovely maze of courtyards and walkways that are overflowing with bougainvillea. The grounds have a series of secret gardens and fountains that provide areas of peace and quiet away from the city’s hubbub.

Mexico City & Oaxaca


Hector González Cadena guides small groups and individuals at Mexico’s most famous Mayan sites and is justly proud of these fascinating ruins.

Chichen Itza Recently named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is the largest Mayan site on the Yucatan Peninsula and probably the best restored of any in Mexico. Its most famous landmark is the Pyramid of Kukulcan: dedicated to the feathered serpent god, it is full of symbolism with regard to the Mayan calendar.

Uxmal Dating from the late classic Maya state, Uxmal is, to my mind, one of the most beautiful sites, as it abounds with Puuc decoration. The astonishing 35-metre-high Pyramid of the Magician has, uniquely, rounded sides.

Tulum Thanks to its stunning location on a clifftop overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, this comparatively small site has to be the most photogenic. Though I have visited the spot many times, the scene never fails to bowl me over.

Palenque Over in Chiapas state, Palenque has the most striking pre-Colombian structures anywhere in Latin America. The setting is memorable too. Nestled on a narrow shelf amid thick jungle vegetation, the ruins lay undisturbed for many centuries.

When Europe was still in the Dark Ages, the Mayans had

mapped the heavens, evolved the only true writing system native to the Americas, and invented the calendars we use today. Without metal tools, beasts of burden or even the wheel, they were able to construct vast cities across a huge jungle landscape. The ruins of these cities can be found throughout Mexico. Here are my favourites, and the reasons why.

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Mayan MexicoMexico

Tulum

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Esencia

From £150B/B

A small luxury boutique hotel on a two mile stretch of white sand beach at Xpu-Ha, Esencia has only 29 spacious rooms set within a series of beautiful villas and houses. The décor is tasteful and minimalist, with pristine white floors and airy patios set against elegant mahogany wood with lush tropical surroundings. Lounge on the beach underneath your own palm tree and linen-shaded parasol at this pretty, tranquil retreat. At mealtimes, savour international cuisine served with a Mayan twist.

Las Palapas

From £50B/B

If you are looking for an affordable beach hotel with many activities nearby, head to Playa del Carmen, where Las Palapas features 75 one- and two-storey rustic thatched cottages on the beach, tucked away amongst palm trees in lush, tropical gardens. The laid-back, relaxed atmosphere can be enjoyed from hammocks on each cabin’s porch or balcony. The rooms have an uncluttered, simple style and the resort is just a short walk from the many bars and restaurants of Playa del Carmen.

Hotel Casa Sandra

From £45B/B

Located to the northwest of Cancun, Holbox Island is separated from the mainland by a shallow lagoon which is home to many exotic animals. Even the streets of Holbox Island are made of brilliant white sand and it is largely untouched by tourism. Casa Sandra is a boutique hotel set directly on a lovely stretch of the beach and is surrounded by exotic birds and plantlife. The 16 guest rooms are beautifully designed with many local touches, and all have wonderful ocean views.

Riviera Maya On the Yucatan Peninsula

The Caribbean coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula is popularly

known as the Riviera Maya due to its wonderful white sandy beaches and turquoise seas.

Whilst the area has a number of large all-inclusive chain resorts, there are also a number of smaller boutique-style hotels, ranging from the exclusive to simple cabana-style cottages.

This area is the perfect alternative to the Caribbean, as the beaches are comparable and in addition you can spend a few days exploring Mexico’s fascinating ancient history. World renowned sites, such as Chichen Itza and Tulum, are located relatively near to the coastal resorts.


Las Ventanas al Paraíso

From £175B/B

A Rosewood Resort, Las Ventanas al Paraíso’s name translates as ‘window to paradise’. This desert beach resort captivates its guests with expansive suites, a world-class spa, inspired cuisine and an intoxicating ambience. Arguably Mexico’s premier luxurious retreat, Las Ventanas al Paraíso is a true paradise overlooking the ocean in southern Baja California, near San Jose del Cabo. Pampering with excellent service, makes this a wonderful choice for a dream honeymoon or romantic holiday.

Posada de las Flores

From £40B/B

This collection of three small, charming local inns are dotted along the coast of Baja California, all overlooking the Sea of Cortes, from Loreto to Punta Chivato and on to La Paz. La Paz is a great place for whale watching tours, in season, or look out when you are on the ferry to Los Mochis. Spend some time exploring this little known coastline, stopping at deserted beaches and tiny local villages en route. The posadas are typical of the area and provide a perfect alternative to the larger resorts.

North Western Mexico The Copper Canyon & Baja California

The Copper Canyon is located in northwestern Mexico and

offers some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. It is actually a series of 20 canyons, right in the middle of Mexico’s wilderness. The best way to see the canyon is to ride the Copper Canyon Railway, known as the Chepe, which runs from Los Mochis to Chihuahua City. This impressive piece of engineering stretches for 600 kilometres passing over 39 bridges and through nearly 80 tunnels.

We recommend a minimum stop of one night en route, staying at one of the spectacularly located hotels which afford wonderful vistas of the canyon and beyond.

Baja California in the far northwest of Mexico offers fantastic options

for those looking for spectacular scenery, hidden beaches and coves, world-class snorkelling and diving and some of the best accommodation options in the Americas. This long sliver of land on Mexico’s Pacific coastline is separated from the mainland by the Sea of Cortes, one of the most modern marine environments in the world, which is home to many endemic species. During the Arctic winters, hundreds of grey whales swim to these waters to breed and look after their young. It is one of the best areas in North America between January and March for whale-watching.

Mexico

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All the most famous Mayan sites are included on this great value small group tour, as well as touring Mexico City and engaging with the indigenous communities of San Cristobal de las Casas. You’ll get a real insight into the Mayan world in Palenque, Uxmal and Chichen Itza, all before the Mayan calendar ends on December 21st 2012! You then have the opportunity to leave the group and spend four nights on laid back Holbox Island. Only two hours from Cancun, Holbox is a part of the Caribbean that has escaped mass tourism and offers a little slice of unspoilt paradise.

DAy 1

Take a daytime flight from London Heathrow to Mexico City with British Airways for a 2 night stay

DAy 2

In the morning visit the Zocalo and the Metropolitan Church (the largest in Latin America) before continuing on to the Aztec site of Teotihuacan, which includes the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon

DAy 3

Fly to Tuxtla Gutierrez and drive through beautiful scenery to San Cristobal de las Casas via the Sumidero Canyon

Magical Mexico Small Group TourMexico City – San Cristobal de las Casas – Palenque Campeche – Merida – Holbox Island

DAy 4

Spend the day visiting the different towns and indigenous communities that make up this fascinating and historic area

DAy 5

Start your Mayan exploration by visiting Agua Azul waterfall, en route to the ancient city of Palenque

DAy 6

Spend the morning touring the site of Mayan Palenque, one of the finest in Mexico, before travelling on to Campeche

DAy 7

Transfer to Merida and on to the temples at Uxmal, where your expert guide will help you gain a real understanding of the Mayan world and culture

DAy 8

Today you will have the chance to visit the most famous Mayan city of them all, Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before continuing on to the tranquil surroundings of Holbox Island

DAyS 9-11

Free days to enjoy the white sands and laid back life away from the crowds

DAy 12

Transfer to Cancun for your direct overnight flight home.

Prices from £1995 per personsharing, including international flights and daily breakfast.

On this 12-day small group tour you see the highlights of Mexico City and all the most famous Mayan sites, before spending four days on a gorgeous beach.

Mexico City

Cancun

San Cristobalde las Casas

Palenque

Merida

Mexico

USA

Puebla

CampecheChichen Itza


See the sights of Mexico City before heading to the wonderfully named city of Chihuahua. This is the starting point of the Copper Canyon Railway, locally known as the Chepe. With three separate overnight stays along its route, you will have plenty of time to absorb the magnificent scenery.

DAy 1

Fly British Airways from London Heathrow to Mexico City

DAy 2

Full day tour of Mexico City including the main square or Zocalo, the largest church in Latin America and the National Palace

DAy 3

Fly to Chihuahua where you stay overnight

Mexico

Magical Mexico Small Group TourMexico City – San Cristobal de las Casas – Palenque Campeche – Merida – Holbox Island

Mexico and the Copper Canyon Mexico City – Chihuahua – Copper Canyon Railway El Fuerte – Mexico City

DAy 4

Early in the morning, board the Chihuahua-Pacifico train. The first stop is at Creel where the afternoon is free to explore the local area

DAy 5

There’s a leisurely start this morning with free time before re-boarding the train to Divisadero, where you stay overnight

DAy 6

Your hotel has spectacular views overlooking the canyon. In the afternoon, continue on the train to Bahuichivo station. Transfer by road to the mission community of Cerocahui

DAy 7

Re-board the Chepe for the final leg of your journey to El Fuerte, where you stay overnight

DAy 8

Fly to Mexico City and catch the overnight British Airways flight to London.

This 8-day itinerary highlights the best of Mexico City and then takes you on one of the world’s greatest railway journeys through the Copper Canyon.

Mexico City

El Fuerte

CopperCanyonRailway

Chihuahua

Mexico

USA

Prices from £1895 per personsharing, including international and domestic flights, transfers, breakfast on days 1-3 and full-board on days 4-7.

Copper Canyon

In these enticing Central American countries, you can explore ancient ruins and colourful markets, admire sparkling lakes and impressive volcanoes, sightsee in pretty colonial towns and go diving off idyllic Caribbean islands.

Guatemala, Belize& Honduras

With a rich Mayan and colonial heritage and spectacular scenery, Guatemala is one of the

most striking countries in Latin America. Overlooked by three volcanic peaks, Lake Atitlan in the central highlands has to be one of the most beautiful lakes anywhere in the world. The villages surrounding it seem lost in time, with locals wearing hand-woven, vividly coloured costumes.

Any tour of the country should also include Antigua, an immensely attractive and relaxing city that serves as Guatemala’s cultural and artistic centre. Many of its painstakingly restored Spanish colonial buildings have been converted into stylish hotels.

Also definitely worth a visit is Chichicastenango, which holds the country’s largest and most colourful markets, and has the intriguing Iglesia de Santo Tomas, a unique church with its own style of worship blended from pre-Colombian and Catholic practices.

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Belize

Belize

Guatemala Honduras

El Salvador

Copan

San Pedro

Roatan Island

Guatemala CityAntigua

Tegucigalpa

Mexico

Lake Atitlan

Chichicastenango

Tikal

FloresBelize City

Lamanai

Xunantunich

Guatemala, Belize& Honduras

Another highlight is Tikal – surrounded by undisturbed rainforest and home to howler monkeys and toucans, it has probably the best setting of all the Mayan ruins. If you want to get off the beaten track, float down the Rio Dulce towards the Caribbean coast at Livingston, where you may be lucky enough to spot the elusive manatee.

Belize is the only official English-speaking country in Latin America. It is known principally as a top diving and snorkelling, destination - the Belize Barrier Reef is the second longest in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. But that’s not all Belize has to offer. The offshore cayes and mainland coast have first-class, white-sand beaches.

When to goThe best time of year to visit these countries is between December and May. Other months can see prolonged periods of rain. Honduras and Belize can be affected by tropical storms and hurricanes between July and October. Although the region is generally hot and humid all year round, Guatemala’s highlands can get very cold in winter, between October and March.

Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK. Iberia flies from Madrid to Guatemala City; alternatively a number of US airlines fly to Guatemala, Belize and Honduras via their hubs in the USA.

GMT: -6 hours

Visas British passport holders do not require visas to enter these countries, though if you fly via the US, the ESTA will be compulsory.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter these countries.

The Mayan site of Copan is located in Honduras, just 60 km from the border with Guatemala. Copan is thought to have been the Mayan’s most important city in their southern realm, and is known for a series of portrait stelae. you can visit Copan on our Mayan world itinerary - see page 101.

Guatemala, Belize & Honduras

Protected forests in the interior shelter rare wildlife - you may be lucky enough to spot a jaguar around Orange Walk. You could visit cacao plantations along the southern coast, or venture deep into the jungle to once vast Caracol, the country’s largest known Mayan site.

Honduras is one of the least explored countries in Central America. Nonetheless, it has one of the most rewarding of all Mayan ruins in Copan - its stelae are among the most intricate ever discovered - while some of the best diving and snorkelling to be found anywhere in the Caribbean awaits you off Roatan Island.


Things to do in Guatemala, Belize & Honduras: Visit the beautiful town of Antigua, Guatemala Explore the Mayan city of Tikal Get to know the Copan ruins, Honduras Take a boat trip around Lake Atitlan, Guatemala Dive Belize’s Blue Hole

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Antigua, the former capital of Guatemala, dates from 1543 and

is one of the finest cities in Central America. This charming colonial town is delightfully set in the shadow of three volcanoes, surrounded by coffee plantations and haciendas. It boasts a number of fine properties which have been converted into comfortable boutique posadas.

Northwest of Antigua, Lake Atitlan is truly is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Villages are dotted along the shoreline and you can see the evidence of Mayan culture and dress that has continued for centuries. Nearby, you can find the bustling and colourful market of Chichicastenango, the largest in Guatemala.

Posada del Angel

From £65B/B

We particularly like this Antigua posada, a romantic hideaway with all the splendour of a Mediterranean villa, complete with captivating architecture and beautiful landscaping. Fine attention to detail and excellent service make for a memorable stay. There are just five guest rooms and suites all overflowing with Guatemalan character. Each room is surrounded by a tranquil garden and pool, and guests also have access to the hotel library. Posada del Angel has become internationally renowned, and it is not difficult to see why.

Casa Palopo

From £85B/B

Casa Palopo is a delightful property with seven rooms and a two-bedroomed villa terraced into the hillside with fabulous panoramic views over Lake Atitlan. The house has beautifully decorated interiors with smart contemporary furnishings and Mayan art. The villa, located higher than the main building, has its own pool for those seeking the ultimate private retreat. There can be no better or more romantic place to enjoy fine dining than the hotel’s restaurant which overlooks mysterious Lake Atitlan.

Guatemala’s Highlands & Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan


La Lancha, Lake Peten Itza

From £40B/B

La Lancha is a luxurious jungle resort overlooking peaceful Lake Peten Itza and close to the site of Tikal. Each of the ten secluded casitas has furniture and artwork from Bali and fabrics and carvings from Guatemala. The lodge has a split-level pool, ideal to escape from the jungle heat. The open-air restaurant serves Guatemalan dishes, and a short walk from the main lodge with its soaring thatch roof and open views takes you to the lake, which is the second largest in Guatemala.

Ni’tun Eco Lodge

From £65B/B

Ni’tun Eco Lodge, situated on the shores of Lake Peten Itza, has just four cabins traditionally constructed from wood and stone and thatched with palm leaves. It is a perfect setting to relax and experience eco- expeditions. Days are spent in the jungle, trekking and watching birds and animals while learning about the rainforest. Totally involved in ecology and conservation, the lodge takes all the right steps to keep the lake waters pristine, the forest clean and the environment peaceful.

Tikal & the Peten Jungle

Shrouded in dense tropical jungle, Tikal in the north of Guatemala

is probably one of the most extraordinary and impressive of all the Mayan sites. It was first occupied as a small village sometime before 300BC but by around 700AD had become an important city with great

palaces, plazas and pyramids. Walk through densely forested trails before arriving at the main plaza, opened up from the surrounding vegetation and surrounded on four sides by huge pyramid temples. There are also a number of other temple sites near to Tikal including Yaxha.


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Although located just inside Honduras, Copan can be reached quite easily from Guatemala City and eastern Guatemala, and it’s well worth a diversion.

The site consists of stone temples, two large pyramids,

several plazas and a ball court. The stone monuments (stelae) here are the most intricate and sophisticated of any of the Mayan sites and the museum has a fantastic recreation of how a pyramid may have looked in its heyday. The nearby town of Copan Ruinas is a pretty, well-preserved colonial town with good hotels.

In Belize, Caracol is the most extensive Mayan site. It covers 30 square miles of thick, high canopy jungle and includes five plazas, an astronomic observatory and over 35,000 buildings that have been identified. The loftiest among them, the massive pyramid Caana, is capped by three temples and rises over 140 feet above the jungle floor. This site can only be reached from hotels which are located in Mountain Pine Ridge or San Ignacio. In addition to Caracol, Belize has a number of other ruins including Xunantunich and Lamanai.

Mayan ruins in Honduras & BelizeCopan and Caracol

Caracol


Well-known as a top diving and snorkelling destination, Belize’s palm

fringed beaches, boutique resorts and turquoise waters are reminiscent of the best of the Caribbean.

The cayes and islands off the mainland coast of Belize are delightful places to stay before or after a trip spent exploring colonial treasures, Mayan ruins and rainforest trails. With its pretty white sandy beaches and easy access to the second largest coral reef in the world, just a mile offshore, Ambergris Caye is a lovely place to unwind. Many divers will head for the coral reef off the coast of Belize and the famous Blue Hole. Snorkelling, swimming and sailing are also popular activities in this area.

The Bay Islands, off Honduras’ Caribbean coast, is another fantastic place for diving and snorkelling.

Turtle Inn

From £150B/B

This 25-room seafront hideaway, owned by Francis Ford Coppola, combines natural wonders with luxury style. Thatched cottages are decorated with handcrafted Balinese furnishings. Just steps beyond your private deck, the white-sand beach dissolves into the Caribbean. With two restaurants and a rejuvenating spa, Turtle Inn is a perfect refuge. Its unique location provides a wealth of activities, from some of the best diving in the world and hikes to hidden lagoons, to canoe trips up Monkey River and exploring the nearby Belizean town.

Beaches & diving on Belize’s Caribbean Coast


Victoria House

From £70B/B

The beautiful Victoria House, a plantation-style building, offers exclusivity and personal attention in a choice of casitas and private villas set in tropical gardens or steps away from the white-sand beach. All 42 rooms feature balconies or verandahs overlooking the clear azure waters of the Caribbean Sea. The ambience is one of barefoot elegance, and its restaurant serves excellent cuisine. Victoria House has a large pool and is a great place to bask in the warm sun, fish, dive and snorkel.

Matachica

From £70B/B

A lovely secluded beach resort north of San Pedro, Matachica is set on a white sandy beach surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens. The accommodation comprises 24 villas, including 21 single casitas, two 2-bedroom villas and one 3-bedroom residence. Each is distinctively furnished with Central American textiles and fine linen. The Jade Spa offers a wide range of treatments, all with organic local ingredients, where you can enjoy a rejuvenating massage. Matachica has an award-winning restaurant, Mambo, and truly offers the best cuisine in Belize.

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See the full kaleidoscope of Guatemala’s highlights - colonial towns, colourful markets, sparkling Lake Atitlan and the incredible Mayan ruins of Tikal. Combine the heat of the jungle with the breeze of the Caribbean in Belize, which has a simply stunning coastline. Whether you want to dive, snorkel or just lie on the beach and relax after your adventure, these two countries make a perfect combination.

DAy 1

Fly via the USA to Guatemala City and transfer to Antigua. Spend a total of 3 nights in the heart of this beautiful city

DAy 2

Transfer to Chichicastenango, with time to explore the town and shop at the famous colourful market. Staying at Casa Palopo Villa on the shores of the lake

DAy 3

Free day to explore the lake area or take an optional full day boat tour of Lake Atitlan, stopping at local villages such as San Juan la Laguna and Santiago

DAy 4

Transfer back to Antigua

DAy 5

Free day in Antigua to take optional walking tours around its cobbled streets, or take time to explore colonial churches and attractive squares on your own

DAy 6

Early transfer to Guatemala City in order to catch the morning flight to Flores. Transfer to La Lancha, which overlooks Lake Peten Itza

Prices from £2885 per person sharing, including international flights and daily breakfast.

Guatemala & BelizeAntigua – Lake Atitlan – Tikal – Ambergris Caye

DAy 7

Enjoy a guided half day tour of the mysterious and vast Mayan site of Tikal, including lunch

DAy 8

Fly from Flores via Belize City to the crystal clear waters and white sands of Ambergris Caye. Stay at Victoria House for 3 nights

DAyS 9-10

Spend time relaxing on the beach, taking snorkelling trips or venture out and dive in Belize’s famous Blue Hole

DAy 11

Leave Ambergris and fly to Belize. Continue via the US on your overnight flight to London.

On this 11-day tour, you’ll discover the highlands and jungle of Guatemala and the turquoise waters of Belize’s Caribbean coastline.

Honduras

El Salvador

Mexico

Belize

Guatemala

Antigua

Lake Atitlan

Tikal

Ambergris Caye

Belize City

Guatemala City


With the end of the Mayan calendar fast approaching – on 21st December 2012 – there is no better time to explore the Mayan world. This itinerary takes you to the Mayan communities of Copan in Honduras, Tikal in Guatemala and Chichen Itza, Uxmal and Kabah in Mexico, all of which will contribute to in-depth understanding of Mayan culture and traditions. A great way to end your trip is with a relaxing beach break on the Riviera Maya in Mexico, just ask us for details.

DAy 1

Fly via the US to Guatemala City

DAy 2

In the morning transfer across the border to Honduras and the Mayan site of Copan. Here you will stay at Hacienda San Lucas, situated in the hills above the Copan Valley

DAy 3

Spend the day exploring the Copan ruins

Prices from £2785 per person sharing, including international and domestic flights, transfers and daily breakfast.

Guatemala & BelizeAntigua – Lake Atitlan – Tikal – Ambergris Caye

The Mayan WorldCopan – Tikal – Chichen Itza – Uxmal – Kabah

DAy 4

Today you will transfer back across the border into Guatemala and on to the town of Rio Dulce, close to Guatemala’s Caribbean coast

DAy 5

Stay in Francis Ford Coppola’s hotel, La Lancha Lodge, located close to the Mayan site of Tikal

DAy 6

Free day to explore the magnificent ruins of Mayan Tikal, one of the best known of all the Mayan sites

DAy 7

Morning flight to Cancun via Guatemala City. Transfer to Hacienda Chichen located close to the ruins

DAy 8

Tour the ruins of Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and transfer to Merida for 2 nights

DAy 9

Take a full day tour to the Mayan sights of Uxmal and Kabah

DAy 10

Transfer to Cancun airport for your overnight flight home. Alternatively, you can extend your stay in Mexico.

This 10-day itinerary visits the major Mayan sites in Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico, as well as Central America’s volcanic scenery and tropical jungles.

Belize

Guatemala HondurasCopan

Tikal

Mexico

Cancun

Guatemala City

Rio Dulce

Uxmal

Merida

Chichen Itza

Costa Rica

This small, beautiful country on the narrow isthmus of land between the Pacific and the Caribbean

has an enlightened approach towards conservation. Approximately a quarter of the land is protected by national parks and wildlife reserves, which encompass volcanoes (you can soak in their thermal springs), rainforest, tropical dry forests, mangroves, wetlands, coral reefs and beaches.

Our favourite places include: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, a magical place surrounded by whirling mists where you can visit orchid gardens and coffee plantations; and Tortuguero National Park, where you can journey by small boat down waterways in search of alligators, iguanas and a myriad of birdlife.

Costa Rica is a natural wonderland, somewhere to discover active volcanoes, bewitching cloud forests and lush rainforests, and spot exotic birds and flowers. It also has more than its share of fantastic beaches.

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Arenal volcano

Panama

San Jose

Costa Rica

Liberia

Tamarindo

Monteverde

Tortugeuro

Arenal

Nicaragua

CorcovadoNational Park

Manuel AntonioNational ParkQuepos

NicoyaPeninsula

Throughout the country, you can take walks on well-marked trails with expert local naturalist guides, who will point out monkeys, frogs, hummingbirds, and much, much more.

After exploring Costa Rica’s many natural highlights, most visitors opt to relax on one of the country’s many pristine white-sand beaches that line its beautiful Pacific coast.

When to goThe best time of year to visit Costa Rica is between December and May. Central America has a long rainy season, though the characteristic of these months tends to be bright sunny mornings, followed by afternoon showers. September and October can be quite rainy. On the coast and at lower altitudes, it is hot and humid throughout the year.

Getting there There are no direct flights from the UK. Iberia flies from Madrid to San Jose and a number of US airlines fly on a daily basis via their hubs in the US.

GMT: -6 hours

Visas British passport holders do not require visas to enter Costa Rica, though if you fly via the US, the ESTA will be compulsory.


San Jose and the Central Valley San Jose, the nation’s capital and most likely your point of arrival, has a number of attractions on its doorstep, including the Poas volcano and the La Paz waterfalls. There’s a good range of comfortable hotels here which are ideal for recuperation after a transatlantic flight before heading off to explore.

Just 15 minutes from the airport, the 300-room Costa Rica Marriott is located on a verdant 30-acre coffee estate, and has been voted one of the best hotels in Central America. Alternatively, we recommend the smaller Xandari Resort & Spa, set in gorgeous tropical gardens, again within easy reach of the airport.

Costa Rica

Things to do in Costa Rica: Hideaway on the Osa Peninsula See turtles lay eggs in Tortugero National Park Explore Montverde Cloud Forest View Arenal volcano from the hot springs Relax in Manuel Antonio National Park


Juvenile three-toed sloth

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Arenal Volcano & the Monteverde Cloud Forest

Arenal Springs Resort & Spa

From £45B/B

Arenal Springs offers the perfect combination of relaxation, comfort and tropical scenery, as well as wonderful views of the Arenal volcano. The hotel features 87 colonial-style rooms, each with its own terrace and a view of the active side of the volcano. The hotel has two swimming pools, one for adults and one for children, both with thermal springs. The restaurant offers a variety of national and international dishes in a completely natural ambience with magnificent views.

El Establo Mountain Hotel

From £65B/B

El Establo is a family-owned lodge in Monteverde, with 155 comfortable rooms. This lodge is a good option for those who love a blend of nature and luxury, as it offers everything you need from a top-class hotel including restaurants, bars and a pool. One of the main highlights is the hotel’s private canopy tour which guests can traverse at their own convenience. The lodge also has a serious commitment to the environment and promotes sustainable and responsible practices that ensure minimum impact on nature.

Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa

From £119B/B

Arenal Kioro is a five-star luxury mountain hotel located ten kilometres northwest of La Fortuna in San Carlos, and is a natural viewpoint towards the Arenal volcano. The hotel is set on 11 hectares of undulating land, edged by two streams of crystalline waters that originate in the Arenal Volcano National Park, along with private thermal springs. This hotel features a total of 53 suites with balconies and panoramic views of the volcano, a superb restaurant and a relaxing spa.

Hotel Belmar

From £35B/B

If you are looking for an authentic place to stay in Monteverde, we would recommend Hotel Belmar. Nestled in the mountains adjacent to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, it is just moments away from the immense tropical rainforest. It strives to work in harmony with nature and the local community, avoiding negative impacts on the environment and local cultures. The lodge’s 28 rooms offer spectacular views with good service in a comfortable, rustic setting.

Volcanoes are prominent throughout most of Central America but Arenal is one of the most scenic.

The Arenal volcano lay dormant until 1968, when huge explosions

triggered lava flows, and it has remained active ever since. Many adventures can be arranged locally including hikes on the slopes of the volcano, and relaxing in one of the hot springs created by the natural geothermal heat that warms the groundwater.

A few hours away from Arenal, Monteverde Cloud Forest is a bewitching, enchanting place, with emerald green foliage surrounded by swirling mists, perched on the edge of the Tilaran mountains, 1,400 metres above sea level. Over 400 bird species have been spotted here, including 30 known species of hummingbird. There is much to do here and it is popular with families - explore the cloud forest, take a canopy tour, visit the butterfly garden, take a night tour, visit orchid gardens and coffee plantations, and go trekking or horse riding.


DAy 1

Fly via Madrid or the US to San Jose

DAy 2

Free day in San Jose to explore the city

DAyS 3-4

Head to Tortuguero, on the Caribbean coast, for 2 nights, exploring the many channels and wildlife habitats that exist here. In season you can see turtles laying their eggs on the beach and later in the year the baby turtles hatching

DAyS 5-6

Transfer to the Arenal region for a 2-night stay at the base of the magnificent volcano. Enjoy the national park and spend time relaxing in the Arenal hot springs

DAyS 7-8

Travel across Lake Arenal to the Monteverde Cloud Forest for a 2-night stay. Spend your time exploring the lush ecosystem

DAyS 9-11

From the coolness of the cloud forest, head to the steamier Pacific. Spend 3 nights at El Parador Resort, close to the Manuel Antonio National Park. Spend your days exploring the park or relaxing on the beach

DAy 12

Transfer to San Jose in time for your overnight flight back to the UK.

Costa Rica

Prices from £2195 per person sharing, including international flights, transfers and breakfast throughout.

Costa Rica HighlightsSan Jose – Tortuguero – Arenal – Monteverde – Manuel Antonio

Enjoy the many highlights of Costa Rica on this 12-day itinerary, including volcanoes, lakes, cloud forest and both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

Costa Rica is a country of great natural beauty and every highlight has something unique to offer. Whether you are watching the Arenal volcano whilst bathing in hot springs, walking in the canopy of Montverde’s cloud forest or relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches that adorn its coastline, Costa Rica really is a nature lover’s paradise.

Panama

Costa RicaManuel Antonio

Monteverde

TortugueroArenal

Nicaragua

San Jose

Arenal Volcano & the Monteverde Cloud Forest

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Costa Rica’s spectacular Pacific Coast

Capitan Suizo

From £110B/B

Capitan Suizo is set directly on Guanacaste’s beautiful Tamarindo beach and is close to the bustling town of the same name. The hotel has eight thatched-roof bungalows and 22 rooms, each spacious and comfortable, with a patio or balcony opening onto the tropical gardens. The large free-form swimming pool is surrounded by lush gardens where howler monkeys are frequent visitors and a variety of birds can be found. The hotel’s philosophy lays importance on supporting the local communities and the local nature and wildlife.

Flamingo Beach Resort

From £35B/B

Situated on the northwest Pacific coast of Costa Rica at Guanacaste, Flamingo Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking an enchanting escape. Picture yourself lounging on the golden sands of one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, framed by the deep blue Pacific Ocean and lush mountain foliage. Use this relaxing setting to enjoy an array of adventure tours, engage in the wealth of water sports such as diving, snorkelling and deep-sea fishing, and explore spectacular national parks and nearby villages.

Costa Rica’s Pacific coast offers something for everyone – everything from water sports, diving, deep sea fishing, adventure tours and a verdant rainforest backdrop - always with one thing in common, truly amazing beaches.

Whether it is the sheer beauty of Manuel Antonio National

Park, the remoteness of Corcovado National Park or the busier, but no less beautiful, beaches of Guanacaste, you will be able to find your perfect beach break along this amazing coastline.


Caribbean Coast & Tortuguero

Situated on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, Tortuguero National Park offers great opportunities to spot wildlife including alligators, iguanas, howler monkeys, boa constrictors and a myriad of birdlife in their varied habitats whilst exploring the waterways and canals by small boat. From July to September you might also see giant green turtles come ashore at night to lay eggs.

Parador Resort & Spa

From £55B/B

Perched high above the sweeping central Pacific coastline on 12 acres of rainforest teeming with wildlife, Parador is a secluded, environmentally-responsible resort boasting spectacular views and world-class amenities. Adjacent to a white sand beach, the resort is just minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park, great restaurants and the village of Quepos. Holding the Costa Rican Tourism Board’s highest 5-Leaf sustainability rating and the Ecological Blue Flag, Parador combines old-world charm with warm Costa Rican hospitality.

Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge

From £480 per person for a 2-night packageFully inclusive

On the Osa Peninsula, tucked away in the trees and cooled by the Pacific Ocean, this 170-acre private reserve borders the Corcovado National Park. It has been carefully designed and built by an American naturalist with over 30 years of local experience. In spite of its remote location, Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge has a full range of facilities including two swimming pools, a bar, dining room, gift shop and a terrace where you can watch the famous sunsets. The deluxe bungalows each have their own private garden.

Nicaragua & Panama

Both Nicaragua and Panama have so much to offer visitors - volcanoes, virgin rainforests, wildlife, genuine interaction with indigenous communities, colonial history and exciting modern cities - yet amazingly they remain two of the least visited countries in Latin America. They are also both superb beach destinations, with Panama best for the Caribbean coast and Nicaragua’s best beaches along its Pacific coast.

108 Ometepe

Leon

OmetepeIsland

Nicaragua

Lake NicaraguaGranada

San BlasArchipelago

PanamaCanal Panama

City

Bocas del Toro

DarienGap

Panama

Costa Rica

With its lush rainforests, beautiful Pacific beaches,

fascinating colonial towns, volcanic islands and working coffee farms, Nicaragua is waiting to reward anyone who chooses to visit. The highlights of a trip to Nicaragua include a stay on the volcanic island of Ometepe, time spent on the beach at San Juan del Sur and wandering through the beautiful cobbled streets of Granada and Leon.

However, be sure to delve a little deeper. Nicaragua can provide testing hikes up both dormant and active volcanoes, unique insights into the thriving coffee industry as well as offering visitors the chance to explore two gorgeous Caribbean islands.

To the south of Nicaragua, Panama’s role as a corridor between South and Central America, and more recently as a link between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, has shaped its history. No one visiting the country should fail to visit the

When to goThe best time of year to visit both Nicaragua and Panama is between December and May. Central America has a long rainy season, though the characteristic of these months tends to be bright sunny mornings, followed by afternoon showers. September and October can be quite rainy. On the coast and at lower altitudes, it is hot and humid throughout the year.

Getting there There are no direct flights to Nicaragua from the UK. The best way to get to Managua is on a US airline, such as American Airlines, who fly on a daily basis via their hubs in the US. For Panama City, Iberia flies from Madrid to Panama City non-stop and KLM flies from Amsterdam to Panama City non-stop, or go via the US.

GMT: Nicaragua is GMT -6 hours Panama is GMT -5 hours

Visas British passport holders do not require visas to enter Nicaragua or Panama, although if you fly via the US, the ESTA will be compulsory.

Health There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter either country.

Nicaragua & Panama

famous 80-kilometre-long Panama Canal. Completed in 1914, and now used by some 14,000 vessels a year, this astonishing feat of engineering is also home to a remarkable amount of wildlife, including sloths, monkeys and crocodiles.

Panama is also a nature destination par excellence. On Panama City’s doorstep, the Soberania National Park has registered over 600 bird species.

Other draws include the escapist San Blas Islands, governed by their indigenous communities, and lively Panama City. The capital has a growing number of great hotels and restaurants, and an absorbing Casco Viejo, or Old Town - a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is gradually being restored.

Things to do in Nicaragua and Panama: Explore colonial Granada Relax on the volcanic island of Ometepe Enjoy a drink or two in San Juan del Sur Wonder at the engineering of the Panama Canal Swim in the crystal clear waters of the San Blas Islands


Granada and Leon are Nicaragua’s two most attractive cities,

with beautiful examples of colonial architecture. Granada is located on the shores of Lake Nicaragua where the focal point is Ometepe, an island dominated by two volcanoes. To the north, the coffee region offers a fascinating insight into the industry. Accommodation is on real working coffee farms, staying in lovely, but simple rooms. The coffee should only be drunk by hardened coffee fans… you have been warned!

On the Pacific coast, San Juan del Sur has excellent hotels, restaurants, and beach bars. There are also small, quiet bays with lovely beaches and places to stay. On the Caribbean coast, the Corn Islands offer visitors real Creole culture and beautiful beaches.

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Nicaragua’s colonial towns, coffee region & beaches

Jicaro Island Ecolodge

From £110B/B

Jicaro Island Ecolodge is Nicaragua s most upscale nature resort, and is located on Isla Ometepe, a private island in Lake Nicaragua. Just a short boat ride from the colonial town of Granada, it has spectacular views across the lake towards the Mombacho volcano. Nine private casitas serve as the perfect setting for romantic escapes, active exploration and wellness retreats. Immerse yourself in an island experience filled with peace and tranquillity. A stay at Jicaro is the perfect upscale alternative to hotels and resorts in downtown Granada.

Hacienda & Ecolodge Morgan’s Rock

From £100B/B

Close to San Juan del Sur, Morgan’s Rock has 15 deluxe bungalows set on a forested hill sloping down towards the ocean. It is part of the local green movement that includes an extensive tree conservation project reaching over 1,800 hectares along the Pacific Ocean. The lodge is set in a nature reserve, a seasonal sanctuary for many types of animals, and is more than a luxury hotel; it’s a project of nature conservation, community development and reforestation.

Pelican Eyes Resort & Spa

From £55B/B

Pelican Eyes offers a stunning hillside location and panoramic views of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua’s premier beach destination, and the ocean beyond. The hotel features infinity pools, spacious accommodation, a spa, lush gardens, restaurants and open air bars. Rooms have graceful arch windows, airy terraces, handcrafted furniture and Central American artworks. The resort is within easy walking distance of all of San Juan’s lively restaurants and bars.

Iglesia La Recoleccion, the ‘Yellow Church Leon


Nicaragua’s colonial towns, coffee region & beaches

Panama - the canal, wildlife & beaches

A visit to Panama is not complete without experiencing the

Panama Canal, one of the most incredible engineering projects ever seen in the world. There are plenty of ways to explore the canal, including taking a local sightseeing vessel and making a full transit from the Pacific to the Caribbean. This journey will take you through the three locks that will see you firstly rise by 26 metres and then drop by the same amount.

Panama’s geographic location results in a tremendous bio-diversity of species throughout the country. Panama has highland areas, coastal

plains and dense rainforests where you can find numerous species of plants and orchids. Beside and beyond the canal, Panama has a wealth of birdlife. We suggest visitors venture just outside Panama’s city limits to the Soberania National Park, where over 600 bird species have been recorded including colourful macaws and king vultures.

The coastline of Panama offers many places of interest too. The archipelago of Bocas del Toro is a collection of many idyllic islands with lovely beaches set in aquamarine waters and fringed by

lush rainforests. Here you can visit deserted islands and see dolphins, red frogs and a great variety of birdlife. Snorkellers can marvel at the colourful underwater marine life.

Alternatively, further along the Caribbean coast visit the San Blas archipelago, home to tribes of Kuna Indians who govern their islands themselves. For those looking for a sophisticated coastal experience, more conventional, larger resort-style hotels with a full range of facilities are now being developed along the Pacific coastline.

Nicaragua & Panama

San Blas Islands

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Nicaragua

PanamaCity

Panama

Guatemala

Guatemala City

Lake Atitlan

Arenal

MonteverdeCosta RIca

San Jose

Hounduras

El Salvador

Belize

Mexico

DAy 9

Free day in Antigua to explore the beautiful cobbled streets and architecture of Guatemala’s most beautiful town

DAy 10

Travel to Lake Atitlan where you stay for 2 nights

DAy 11

Spend the day visiting some of the indigenous communities that live on the shores of this amazing lake

DAy 12

Visit vibrant Chichicastenango market where you can buy some of the colourful textiles Guatemala is famous for

DAy 13

Catch your overnight return flight from Guatemala City, via the US, to London.

Your journey starts in Panama where you take a small boat cruise on the iconic Panama Canal, before moving on to the natural wonders of Costa Rica; the Arenal volcano is a real must-visit. Lakes and volcanoes form the backbone of Central America and you will see the best of these in Guatemala, along with the country’s vibrant culture.

DAy 1

Fly via the US to Panama City for a 3 night stay

DAy 2

Explore Panama City, one of the most modern cities in one of the smallest countries in Latin America

DAy 3

Half-day cruise on the famous Panama Canal, where you experience this world-famous feat of engineering

DAy 4

Fly to San Jose, Costa Rica, before driving to Arenal

Central America JourneyPanama City – San Jose – Arenal – Monteverde – Granada Antigua – Lake Atitlan – Guatemala City

DAy 5

Explore the Arenal Volcano National Park and relax in the hot springs with magnificent views of the volcano

DAyS 6-7

Continue to the Monteverde Cloud Forest for 2 nights, with the opportunity to explore the forest from the ground and the canopy walkways

DAy 8

Fly to Guatemala City and transfer to Antigua for a 2 night stay

This 13-day itinerary highlights the best of Panama, Costa Rica and Guatemala, and is a great introduction to the variety that each of these Central American countries has to offer.

Prices from £2995 per person sharing, including international flights and daily breakfast.

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Nicaragua

Granada

PanamaCity

Panama

San Juan del Sur

Costa RIca Bocas del Toro

Isla Ometepe

PanamaCanal

Visit Panama City and the Panama Canal and then on to the beautiful beaches of Bocas del Toro, a Caribbean archipelago of lush vegetation and ancient traditions. In Nicaragua you can explore the beautiful colonial town of Granada, relax in volcanic beauty on Ometepe Island on Lake Nicaragua and let your hair down in San Juan del Sur, a buzzing beach town.

DAy 1

Fly via the US to Panama City for a 3-night stay

DAy 2

Explore the very modern Panama City

DAy 3

Enjoy a half day small-boat cruise on the famous Panama Canal to grasp the astounding engineering that went into creating this waterway

DAy 4

Fly to Bocas del Toro

DAy 5

Free time to relax on the beach and enjoy the laid back atmosphere of this unspoilt area of the Caribbean

Prices from £2815 per person sharing, including international and domestic flights, transfers and daily breakfast.

Central America JourneyPanama City – San Jose – Arenal – Monteverde – Granada Antigua – Lake Atitlan – Guatemala City

Nicaragua & PanamaPanama City – Panama Canal – Bocas del Toro – Granada Isla Ometepe – San Juan del Sur

DAy 6

Fly to Managua, Nicaragua, via Panama City. On arrival, you will be transferred to Granada

DAy 7

Half-day tour of this lovely example of a Latin American colonial city. Spend the afternoon relaxing in one of the eateries or wander through the city’s streets

DAy 8

Transfer via ferry to the beautiful island of Ometepe. Made up of two volcanoes, Ometepe is a sensational sight, and an inviting place to spend a few days

DAy 9

Free day to explore the island, climb a volcano or just relax on the beautiful dark beaches

DAyS 10-11

After the quiet of Ometepe, today you will head to San Juan del Sur where you will spend two days enjoying the many restaurants and bars along the beach, or taking a boat ride to one of the more secluded beaches on Nicaragua’s stunning southern Pacific coastline

DAy 12

Overnight flight from Managua to the UK.

Nicaragua and Panama are relatively unknown Latin American countries, but they are well worth exploring, in part for this very reason, on this highly rewarding 12-day itinerary.

Nicaragua & Panama

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Antarctica cruiseExploring the white continent


Antarctica

Antarctica cruiseExploring the white continent

Travel journalist Wendy Driver has been on several expeditions to the polar regions.

Antarctica isn’t for the faint-hearted. It may be the most

stunningly beautiful place on earth, but getting there is a big adventure. The voyage from the Argentine port of Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, takes you through the Drake Passage - be prepared for days of pitching and tossing in the most storm-whipped seas on the planet.

The Roaring Forties certainly lived up to their name on my expedition. We were travelling on a former Russian research vessel, and it felt like being tossed around in a washing machine. Seasoned sailors remained on deck watching for the first iceberg, while others preferred to stay below attending lectures, films and slideshows.

With just 48 like-minded passengers on board, an atmosphere of camaraderie soon developed. Everyone was allowed on the bridge and we sat at communal tables at meal times. The ages of my fellow explorers ranged from mid-twenties to early eighties, but everyone was reasonably fit and game for anything.

The best wildlife can be seen on the sub-Antarctic islands, which provide refuge to huge numbers of seabirds and mammals. To visit them we boarded small inflatables to land amongst colonies of elephant seals weighing up to three tons each. Muffled up in padded jackets and life vests, we bumped across the waves, narrowly avoiding killer whales diving beneath our craft.

On South Georgia, a three-day voyage from the Antarctic Peninsula, we found ourselves surrounded by over a quarter of a million penguins. Foul-smelling fur seals lurched towards us in mock attack and wandering albatross nested on grassy tussocks, oblivious to us wide-eyed tourists just a few metres away.

As we continued south, I got my first view of the Antarctic continent, a vast wilderness of endless snowfields and shimmering peaks. We glided past jewel-bright icebergs the size of tower blocks, immense silver glaciers, and blue ice cliffs where icicles sparkled like sapphires.

No wonder the early explorers were drawn back again and again. I know I am planning to return.

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Antarctica Cruising

Silversea Cruises Sailing to the Antarctic since 2008/9, Silversea Cruise Expeditions have introduced luxury to clients wanting the very best on their travels to this inhospitable region. On board the Silversea Explorer enjoy the benefits of all inclusive luxury with complimentary drinks throughout and 24-hour room service. The restaurant has an ‘open-seat’ dining plan with gourmet menus. Guides and lecturers accompany the cruises, adding considerably to the Antarctic experience.

Antarctic Dream Antarctic Dream was a former Chilean naval vessel and has sailed in the most challenging waters around the world for many years. The boat has 40 luxury cabins situated over four decks, all with private facilities. The ten-night round-trip cruises to Antarctica from Ushuaia in Argentina, (half of which are spent sailing off the Antarctic Peninsula), visit locations such as King George Island, Neko Bay, Petermann Island and Cuverville Island where there is a large colony of gentoo penguins.

Six hundred miles south of Tierra del Fuego, Antarctica is surely

the ultimate destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Find yourself at close quarters with large rookeries of penguins and seal colonies, and spot whales plying the icy offshore waters.

Until recently, Antarctica was the domain of pioneering expeditions and intrepid explorers. Nowadays it is possible to visit this pristine wilderness as part of small groups on expedition vessels that let you experience Antarctica in relative comfort and luxury.

When to goCruises to Antarctica operate between November and late February. You should be prepared for cold weather and also strong winds.

Getting there As most cruises to the Antarctic operate from Ushuaia in Argentina, most clients will fly to Buenos Aires. British Airways fly there daily from London Heathrow. You will then need to take an internal flight direct to Ushuaia.

GMT: -3 hours

Visas British passport holders do not require visas to enter these countries.


For a short period in the southern hemisphere’s summer months there is a seasonal break up of the vast pack ice, which gives the specialist ships a passage through to the Antarctic Peninsula. Thousands of penguin, petrel and albatross come here to breed and seal colonies adorn the many ice floes.

Some cruises combine the Antarctic Peninsula with the opportunity to visit the wildlife havens of South Georgia Island and the Falkland Islands.

AntarcticaThe spectacularly beautiful ‘White Continent’ is one of the most remote and fascinating natural reserves in the world.


The Falklands The Falklands are renowned for their spectacular wildlife, with the majority of islands offering something for the wildlife, birdlife and photography enthusiast. More than 227 species of birds have been identified in the Falklands as well as 14 species of regularly occurring marine mammals. The most commonly seen birds are the black-browed albatross (the Falklands is home to 60% of the world’s population), followed by penguins.

On Sea Lion Island, the endangered striated caracara, Antarctic skuas and southern giant petrels can all be seen. You can also view southern sea lions at East Loafers, and elephant seals basking on the white sandy beach at the appropriately named Elephant Corner.

Quasar Expeditions offer a 20-day Antarctic itinerary sailing from Ushuaia, including the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, South Orkney and the South Shetland Islands before heading on to the Antarctic Peninsula. If this is of interest please do call our travel specialists who can help you with suitable dates and prices.

Antarctic Dream ExpeditionSouth Shetland Islands – Antarctic Peninsula

This 11-day itinerary, starting and ending in Buenos Aires, takes you to the Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands and the amazing wildlife encounters they have to offer.

Cruising gives you the opportunity to experience a slice of the white continent, crossing the Drake Passage on the M/V Antarctic Dream.

DAy 1

Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina Arrive in Ushuaia from Buenos Aires and board the M/V Antarctic Dream

DAyS 2-3

Drake Passage Wandering albatrosses, storm petrels and other seabirds will escort the vessel as you sail south across this famous passage named after Sir Francis Drake, the sixteenth century English navigator

DAy 4

Aitcho Island Disembark in the afternoon on Aitcho, the biggest island in the South Shetlands lying between Greenwich and Robert Islands. Continue across the Bransfield and Gerlache Straits and enter Andvord Bay, where you will find Neko Bay

DAy 5

Antarctic Peninsula & Neko Bay Besides the magnificent scenery of mountains, snow and ice, in Antarctica you can expect to see a wide variety of native wildlife and marine mammals including weddell crab-eaters and leopard seals, while orcas, humpback and minke whales may also be spotted at close range

DAy 6

Paradise Bay & Cuverville Island Start the return voyage. During the morning and, if weather permits, disembark on zodiacs in Paradise Bay. In the evening visit Cuverville Island, home to one of the largest colonies of gentoo penguins and skuas

DAy 7

Pleneau & Petermann Island Sail south through the narrow Lemaire Channel and visit Petermann Island, the southernmost land point of the expedition. Disembark to see the most southern colony of gentoo and adelie penguins

DAy 8

Deception Island, Whaler’s Bay & Pendulum Cove Continue sailing to Deception Island, home to the largest active volcano in the area on the northwest side of the peninsula. During the morning disembark in Whaler’s Bay and Pendulum Cove (subject to weather conditions) where you can swim in Antarctic waters – if you dare!

DAyS 9-10

Drake Passage Leave Antarctica and head north back across the Drake Passage

DAy 11

Ushuaia, Argentina After an early breakfast, land and bid farewell. Thus ends an incredible and unique expedition.

Prices from £4750 per personsharing, including domestic flights to and from Buenos Aires, full-board accommodation on the ship and all excursions during the cruise.

Antarctica

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BROCHURE ACCURACY Although we have made every effort to ensure that the content of this brochure is correct at the time of publication (October 2011), it is inevitable that circumstances may change. Facilities may be withdrawn due to maintenance - e.g. the pool is closed as it needs a tile replaced. Public and religious festivals may also impact on the availability of facilities both in the hotel and resort. We will endeavour to advise of changes we are aware of prior to travel.

All pictures shown have been checked for their accuracy; however it is realistic to assume these have been taken during the most favourable conditions, so seasonal variation can apply. The room shots are intended to give an overall impression of the hotel and we can’t guarantee the decor will be the same in your room.

No brochure, no matter how detailed, will be able to give you all the information you require, either prior to booking or during your holiday. For this reason we do recommend some personal research into your chosen destination(s) prior to booking.

YOUR HOLIDAY, YOUR CHOICE Longer or shorter durations, different hotels, alternative airlines, upgraded rooms and flights. Our brochure really is a shop window on the variety of holidays available to you. Part of the enjoyment of a holiday is the ease to mix and match your destinations. Whilst we show a few examples of touring suggestions, these can all be easily adapted to your individual requirements.

It is probable that many of you will be experienced travellers to exotic destinations. Whilst some of the resorts and countries may be new to you, it is likely that you will have appreciated that travel to these destinations is a rich and rewarding experience, enjoying lifestyles that are in complete contrast to the generally more commercialised hospitality of Europe or North America. Our experienced team will be delighted to assist you further should you wish to discuss either the hotels or resorts in further detail, although please bear in mind that we, like you, are individuals with our own personal likes and dislikes.

BUILDING WORK If we receive prior advice we will inform you of any building work that we think will affect your holiday. Please note we have little or no control over building work taking place on a private residential property that may be adjacent to one of our featured hotels.

Unlike Europe, much of Latin America does not have stringent laws on building works. Whilst many hoteliers will act responsibly on this, the same would probably not apply to a private residence next to a hotel. Unfortunately we have no control over these works or the notice given. We will endeavour to notify you as soon as we become aware of any such building work within or nearby a hotel that will impact on your holiday enjoyment.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN OUR PRICE The guide prices in this brochure, and our tailor-made quotations, are per person in pounds sterling, unless otherwise stated. Generally they include return flights from the UK, accommodation on the occupancy and board basis stated and return transfers to the resort.

Rainbow Tours offers you the flexibility to create your own holiday from a wide range of accommodation and services available. Because of the choice we can offer you, it is not possible to list every price on every date. A ‘from’ price is indicative of the lowest price available for the hotel or itinerary featured and is based on a shoulder season departure. These prices may also vary depending on a number of factors, such as your exact date of travel and choice of accommodation. Peak season prices are not shown. All our quotations are personalised to your exact requirements and each quote will utilise the very best rates available at the time, and can often be cheaper than the prices shown in our brochures. To help you in choosing a holiday which is tailor-made by us to your requirements, please call our Sales Specialists, or visit your travel agent.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Unless specifically included in your quotation, the price does not include:• Holiday insurance• Transportation between your home and UK

departure airport• UK regional flights • Drinks on flights (some carriers offer complimentary

beverages) and during resort transfers• Porterage where not provided by the hotel• Meals• Expenditure of a personal nature such as drinks,

laundry, room service etc.• Tips and gratuities

PRICING ERRORS Whilst we endeavour to ensure that the most up to date and correct prices are shown on our website, there may on occasion be an incorrect price shown, due to a system error. When we become aware of any such error, we will ensure that we act promptly and will endeavour to notify you within seven days of the time of booking, or as soon as reasonably possible. We must reserve the right to cancel the booking and you will be given the choice to amend your booking to an alternative holiday, at the correct price.

UK FOREIGN OFFICE ADVICE To make the most of your holiday, and to be aware of the information supplied by the UK government, we recommend you check with the Foreign Office (FCO) ‘Know Before You Go’ website at www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo. This is based on information provided to the Foreign Office from the UK government representatives based in each country, and is updated on a regular basis. In addition to advice and warnings about possible acts of terrorism, this also carries relevant information that can be of interest to travellers, particularly relating to health and safety. For more information visit www.fco.gov.uk or call 0845 850 2829.

CONSUMER PROTECTION The air holidays in this brochure are ATOL protected, since we hold Air Travel Organiser’s Licences granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 10412. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk.

We are a member of ABTA, membership number Y1152. All package holidays that you buy from us that do not include a flight or other individual travel elements (e.g. accommodation only, car hire etc) are also protected for your security by way of a bond held by ABTA. For further information visit the ABTA website at www.abta.com.

SEASONALITY The majority of resorts and destinations shown in this brochure can be offered on a year round basis, although seasonal variances do apply. These are summarised on the relevant destination introduction pages. You will note that some of the lower prices and extra value offers apply in the quieter months, when the climate may not be so consistent. During the quieter months, hotels may decide to reduce facilities in line with anticipated occupancy (e.g. closure of restaurant/re-painting of pool). Equally, in the busier months you should expect more demands to be placed on the facilities and attentions of the staff.

We will endeavour to notify you when a supplier informs us in advance of any service closure or reductions, however some operate this based on their daily occupancy levels and we therefore cannot know of this in advance. If you feel that a particular service is paramount to your holiday enjoyment please do inform us in advance.

GENERAL FACILITIES/CHILDREN’S FACILITIES The accommodation featured in this brochure covers a whole spectrum from shiny modern luxury city centre hotels to remote Amazon lodges with simple facilities. They range from global hotel chains to privately owned boutique hotels, or lodges run by local communities. In some hotels, a conscious decision may have been taken to depart from the modern day trappings of televisions and Wi-Fi connections. Generally the standard of accommodation throughout Latin America has increased over the last decade to very acceptable levels.

PASSPORTS AND VISAS All clients must be in possession of a valid 10 year passport. This should have a minimum validity of six months from your scheduled return date. UK passport holders do not currently require visas to visit any country in Latin America. However, should you travel or transit via the US, then you will have to obtain an ESTA (the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) before travelling. It is your responsibility to check that you have all valid documents in advance of booking your holiday. It is important that your passport has at least one clean page for entry stamps to be inserted. Other

Know before you bookPlease read these notes carefully as they contain important information and can help to avoid misunderstandings about your trip. Thank you.


nationalities should enquire at the relevant embassy. This information is correct at the time of going to print and may be subject to amendment. Your passport and air ticket must be in the same name. Again it is your responsibility to inform us of the correct spelling of your surname and first name. Even if you are commonly known by your middle name, this will not satisfy airlines who have become very strict in recent years on changing named bookings.

HEALTH & VACCINATIONS We do suggest consultation with your GP with regards to all health and vaccination issues. This is important if you are visiting either the more populous areas or forest/water regions. For travel to rural/jungle areas we strongly suggest precaution against malaria, typhoid and hepatitis A, as well as anything your doctor may suggest for you.

Yellow Fever Certificates are required if visiting the Amazon region in Ecuador. Also, the Brazilian authorities require Yellow Fever Certificates to be shown upon arrival by those who have recently visited Peru, Bolivia or Venezuela.

A number of destinations in the Andes are located at altitudes between 2,400 and 4,300 metres above sea-level. Such heights may not be suitable for those suffering from heart problems or very high blood pressure, and you are recommended to check with your doctor if you have these conditions. Our experienced team will advise you if your itinerary travels to high altitudes.

All hotels and tours mentioned contract with us on the basis that they comply with local regulations governing health, safety and hygiene. Some of these standards may be less than applicable in the UK, whilst others may be even more stringent. Cases of hotel food poisoning are very rare. Less reliable would be the purchase of food or drinks from beach/roadside vendors. Having said that, please experiment with the local food from hotels and recommended restaurants.

HOLIDAYS FOR THOSE WITH DISABILITIES Whilst we do accept bookings from those with a disability, we should mention that as typically many of our itineraries are multi-centred, they are not entirely suitable for those who have problems with mobility. Please enquire specifically if you do need any clarification and we will offer some suggestions based on your individual and personal requirements. In some cases we may need to contact hotels to ascertain specific confirmation of their suitability and their acceptance of your reservation and what qualifications they may wish to stress. It is important that we are advised well in advance of any disability that is relevant to what is mentioned above.

AIR TRAVEL We have shown on each regional introduction the approximate flying time based on flights to London. Currently, the only mainland destinations in Latin America with non-stop flights from London are

Argentina, Brazil and Mexico. For all other countries, it will be necessary to change aircraft en route. We only use scheduled flights for international travel.

We cannot be held responsible for specific seat requests and allocated seat numbers.

UPGRADING YOUR FLIGHT With Economy Class seats, please anticipate flights will be full, particularly at peak demand periods, and your choice of seats may not be available. In many cases we are able to offer flight upgrades to the extra comfort of enhanced economy on certain routes, as well as Business Class and First Class. Upgrades can be booked on a one way or return basis.

OUR SELECTED HOTELS Virtually all of our hotels are at least superior class although many are the best available in rural or remote areas and not necessarily graded. This will generally ensure a good standard of accommodation and associated features; however we have no control over bookings accepted by hotels other than our featured ones. The hotels we feature can be shared with guests from other countries, with differing customs and cultures which can add to the atmosphere and experience in varying ways.

OUR HOTEL RATINGS AND FACILITIES Also note we are only legally responsible for resort/property information contained in our brochures and or websites. We are specifically not responsible for third party brochures or website promotions – for example by hotels or tourist boards and of course other tour operators. If your holiday enjoyment is dependent on a specific item, advise us well in advance so we can clarify availability and obtain written confirmation.

HOTEL SERVICES Even in the best of hotels, occasional hiccups can occur, although these are usually very quickly resolved. Minor problems can usually be resolved by reception, whilst others may need a prompt but discreet word with senior management. It is in everyone’s interest that problems are given the opportunity to be resolved whilst you are in the hotel/resort. This can particularly apply to items such as air conditioning, plumbing and hotel service. Please do not wait until you have returned to the UK to register your complaint. Hotels are much more receptive to dealing with such problems whilst you are there.

Please acquaint yourself with the safety precautions such as the fire drill shown in your room, taking particular note of the fire exits. Most hotels will display this on the door or in your room information kit. If you are not certain please ask the hotel to explain. Please be vigilant with the safety of your children, particularly the younger ones, and ensure they do not play in unsafe areas (such as near a lift). Some of the hotel swimming pools may have lifeguards; however in most cases you will be responsible for your own safety. As such please familiarise yourself with the depth of the pool before you dive in.

Some of the hotels, and particularly those in the cities and major resorts, will seek to accommodate groups and conventions, especially in quiet months. We have no control over the acceptance of such bookings, other than our own. We are therefore unable to accept any responsibility for inconvenience caused by such groups or their activities. If a hotel is positioned close to a convention centre, it would be wise to anticipate that at certain times the majority of guests will be attending a conference.

MEALS When meals have been included in the price, these will always be arranged on a table d’hôte (set meal) menu. Supplements will apply should you decide on à la carte items. This could particularly apply on all inclusive options. For those with specific diets of any kind, we suggest you choose a room only or breakfast only option and discuss your requirements locally. If alcoholic beverages are included, these tend to be house wine or locally bottled beer and spirits and supplements will apply to more premium brands.

DRESS REQUIREMENTS There are no specific dress codes on our itineraries. For itineraries that involve trekking, or visits to regions with extreme weather (e.g. Antarctica), you should dress appropriately. For other itineraries, if you are unsure about what clothing to take, our Sales Specialists will be able to offer advice.

PERSONAL SAFETY Many of the countries featured are part of the developing world. Financial extremes do apply. Please do not tempt fate with obvious displays of your own success. Small change to you can be a week’s salary to others. Most of the hotels will provide security safes for the storage of your valuables. Please check your insurance policy to ensure all items of value are adequately covered and take note of the hotel’s comments on resort safety.

Take sensible precautions. Walk purposefully, do not walk in unlit areas at night and adhere to local advice. Be particularly vigilant in crowded areas, such as markets, railway stations and airports. Avoid distractions. As with many areas that are seeing unemployment increase and job opportunities decrease, petty and not so petty crime is moving upwards. Be sensible in your security, just as you would at home.

ECO ADVENTURE TOURS/WATER SPORTS/SAFARIS Eco adventure tours are increasingly popular. As the name suggests, there could be an element of risk, indeed for some that is very definitely part of the appeal. Some of these tours involve travel over unmade roads (for example) or at sea. You need to satisfy yourself that you are able to cope with such tours, particularly if you do not partake in regular exercise.

Thanks to…We would like to thank the tourist boards, hotels and lodges that have contributed photos for this brochure, as well as our own staff and the following individuals and organisations: Gary Calton – Panos Pictures, Laurie Gough (photo of Diane McTurk page 81), iStockphotos, John Warburton Lee – AWL images and Shutterstock Photo Library.

This brochure is printed from sustainable forests from IS014001 certified mills.

Please read these Terms & Conditions carefully. They contain important information about your holiday contract.

1. CONTRACT Your contract is with Western and Oriental Travel Limited trading as Rainbow Tours, Layden House, 76-86 Turnmill Street, London EC1M 5LG, referred to as “we” or “us” in this contract. A binding contract is only entered into when we issue a confirmation invoice. By contacting us and/or your travel agent to make a booking, you accept that you have the authority to bind all members of your party to these terms and conditions. It is essential that you check the travel details on the confirmation invoice and inform us immediately of any errors. Your booking is also subject to the conditions of carriage of your chosen airline.

2. YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTION When you buy a holiday package from us, The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 require us to provide security for the monies that you pay for the package holidays booked from this brochure and ensure that your money is refunded or that you are repatriated in the unlikely event of our insolvency (for all UK citizens, except residents of the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man).

We are holders of Civil Aviation Authority ATOL licence 10417, which will protect any holiday package including a flight, except for residents of the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, as described in the paragraph above. If the holiday you buy from us is an ATOL-protected air holiday package you will receive a confirmation invoice from us (or via our authorised agent through which you booked) confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 10417.

In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk.

All package holidays that you buy from us that do not include a flight or for other individual travel elements that you buy from us (e.g. accommodation only, car hire etc) are also protected with your security provided by way of a bond held by ABTA. For further information visit the ABTA website at www.abta.com.

Protection applies to all UK citizens, except residents of Channel Islands and Isle Of Man / or whose journey commences from these points.

3. ABTA We are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y1152. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with, this contract. Further information on the Code and arbitration can be found on ABTA’s website www.abta.com

The arbitration scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently by IDRS, part of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.It provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in respect of costs. Full details will be provided on request or can be obtained from the ABTA website. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences.

The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,000 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element.

The application for arbitration and Statement of Claim must be received by IDRS within nine months of the date of return from the holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if the company agrees, but the ABTA Code does not require such agreement.

For injury and illness claims, you may like to use the ABTA/Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Mediation Procedure. This is a voluntary scheme and requires us to agree for mediation to go ahead. The aim is to help you resolve your dispute in a quick and cost effective way. Details on request or from www.abta.com

4. PAYMENT FOR YOUR HOLIDAY A deposit of £250 per person or 10% of the total holiday price (whichever is greater) is required at the time of booking. We reserve the right to vary the deposit as appropriate. The balance is due eight weeks prior to departure. If the booking is made less than eight weeks before departure, the full amount is due on booking. If any balance remains unpaid, travel documentation will not be issued and we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled and apply the cancellation charge set out below. Final travel documents will usually be sent out approximately two weeks before departure. All money paid to a travel agent will be held by the agent on our behalf. Payment must be in the currency of the invoice and you are responsible for bank charges. If you choose to pay the balance of your holiday by credit card a 2.5% levy will be charged. No charge is levied for payment by debit card. In some cases quotations will be based on instant purchase, limited availability non refundable airfares and full payment of the total holiday cost must be made at the time of booking. Full details will be given at the time of enquiry.

5. INFORMATION Whilst we make every effort to ensure that the information in our brochure is as accurate as possible, it is published many months before your holiday takes place. We reserve the right to make changes to the brochure and any information it contains. You will be informed of any material changes before booking. Western and Oriental Travel Limited are only responsible for information contained within our own publications and websites. We are specifically not responsible for third party information (from tourist boards and hotels for example) contained in any other brochures or websites.

6. AMENDMENT AND CANCELLATION BY YOU (A) AMENDMENT We will do our best to assist you in altering your arrangements after booking but cannot guarantee this will be possible. If alterations can be made you will be responsible for all extra charges and costs and we reserve the right to charge a £50 administration fee per person plus any applicable charges levied by our suppliers. We also reserve the right to treat any amendment less than eight weeks prior to departure as a cancellation and apply the cancellation charges set out below.

(B) CANCELLATION All cancellations must be made in writing by the person who made the booking and are effective on the day we receive it. As we incur substantial costs and losses on a cancellation, we will apply the following cancellation charges:

Number of days prior to departure Cancellation charge as percentage when cancellation notice received of total holiday price Up to 56 days Forfeit deposit 55-43 Days 50% 42-31 Days 75% 30 Days or less 100%

The penalties are in addition to the non-refundable elements of the booking which have been contracted on your behalf and notified to you.

If we are able to recover any of our losses from our suppliers, we will refund those to you subject to a reasonable administration fee.

Agents or third party organisations acting on our behalf are unable to amend or change the contract or terms and conditions within it.

7. AMENDMENT AND CANCELLATION BY US (A) AMENDMENTS

It is occasionally necessary for us to make changes to advertised products and services and we reserve the right to make such changes. In exceptional circumstances we may have to modify your holiday after booking. If the change is minor we will do our best to notify you in advance but are not obliged to do so and no compensation is payable. If the change is material (for example, a change of flight time by more than 12 hours, change of destination or to a lower standard of accommodation), we will notify you as soon as practically possible and offer you the choice of (i) accepting the alternative arrangements or (ii) arranging an alternative holiday with us or (iii) cancelling your holiday. Whichever option you choose, we will pay you compensation unless the change has been caused by force majeure or low bookings as defined below.

Days before departure Compensation per person 43 Nil 42-29 £40 28-15 £50 14-0 £70

(B) CHANGES DURING THE HOLIDAY If we are unable to provide a significant proportion of your holiday whilst you are away, suitable alternative arrangements will be made for you at no extra cost or, alternatively, you will be returned to your point of departure and given a pro-rata refund for any part of the holiday not received. This does not apply to minor changes in your accommodation, itinerary or transportation.

(C) CANCELLATION BY US Whilst we hope we will never have to cancel your holiday, this does very occasionally happen and we reserve the right to do so.

Should it be necessary to cancel your holiday, we will endeavour to offer alternative travel arrangements of equivalent or similar standards, together with a price refund if appropriate. Alternatively we will provide a full and prompt refund.

(D) FORCE MAJEURE Compensation will not be payable in any cases where an amendment, change or cancellation is due to ‘force majeure’, being unusual or unforeseeable events or circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which neither we nor our suppliers could avoid. These include, but are not limited to, war, threat of war, riot, civil disturbance or strike, terrorist activity (actual or threatened), industrial disputes, technical or maintenance problems with transport, machinery or equipment, power failure, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, flood, drought, adverse weather conditions, levels of water in rivers, acts of God, closure of airports, changes of schedules or operational decisions of transport providers.

(E) LOW BOOKINGS Compensation is not payable if a holiday or tour does not take place because a required minimum number of passengers to enable the holiday or tour to take place has not been reached and you were informed of that requirement at the time of booking.

8. PRICES All prices advertised or quoted are per person based on sharing a twin/double room and are in pounds sterling unless otherwise shown and are subject to change, up or down, until the booking is concluded. After that, we will only increase the price in limited circumstances to reflect increases in transportation costs (including fuel and airfares), dues, government approved taxes (including VAT), both in the UK and overseas, fees chargeable for services (including landing taxes, embarkation and disembarkation, and security fees at airports), Government action or exchange rate variation. If the surcharge would increase the cost of your holiday by 10% or more, you may cancel your holiday and receive a full refund (except insurance premiums). We will absorb, and you will not be charged for, any increase equivalent to up to 2% of the original price of your holiday (excluding insurance premiums and amendment fees). No surcharges will be made within 30 days of departure. Prices in this brochure were calculated on the exchange rate of £1 = US$1.59.

9. OUR RESPONSIBILITIES TO YOU We take care to ensure that all involved in the preparation and supply of your holiday maintain the highest standards. Please remember that the appropriate standards will be those prevalent in your destination, which may not be the same as developed international standards.

(a) We will pay reasonable compensation (subject to (c) below) if the product supplied to you is not of the standard described or contracted for by you. This compensation will be limited (except in the case of death or injury) to no more than twice the holiday price of the person affected.

(b) Should failure in your holiday arrangements relating to you or any member of your party being killed, injured or becoming ill during or as a result of, carriage by aircraft, ship, train or coach as part of the holiday arrangements organised by us, our liability to pay compensation is limited in accordance with the liability of the carrier/service under any international convention which governs such services.

(c) Our liability to you does not apply if you or any member of your group is at fault; if the failure is the fault of someone else not connected with providing the services which form part of our holiday contract with you; the failure is due to any unusual or unexpected circumstances beyond our control, which we could not have avoided even if we had used all care possible, or the failure is due to any event which we or the supplier of any service could not help, expect or prevent. This includes Force Majeure.

(d) Any acceptance of liability is subject to you agreeing to assign to us your rights against any third party responsible for the events leading to your claim and to you affording us all necessary assistance in pursuing that claim.

10. COMPLAINTS If you have any complaint or problem whilst on holiday you must inform us, our representatives or the supplier as soon as possible to give us the maximum opportunity to rectify it. Any unresolved complaints must be notified to us in writing within 30 days of your return.

11. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND OTHER ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTATION It is your responsibility to ensure that all necessary passports are machine readable. You should also ensure that all necessary visas, international driving licences, vaccinations and other health documents are in order. All passports must have a validity of at least six months from your scheduled return date to the UK. You will generally need clear/clean pages for visas, as required, to be inserted. You must read all documentation that is supplied to you and ensure that all information contained within is correct. Failure to do so may incur amendment charges which are your responsibility.

Some countries and airlines now require additional passenger information (API). We will inform you which countries require this. This information is compulsory and is required by authorities. It is essential that all clients provide the API prior to travelling. Failure to provide this information may result in you being denied boarding for your flight. No refund will be permitted and any additional costs will be borne by the named clients.

12. TRAVEL INSURANCE Your holiday package with us does NOT include travel insurance and it is your responsibility to ensure you have adequate insurance cover. In accordance with normal industry practice, we will require you to have adequate travel insurance to provide accident and medical cover before your holiday departs. Such insurance should ideally be valid from the date of booking, be valid throughout the holiday duration and financially cover any probable loss through cancellation, amendment, accident or health related problems. You should ensure you are covered for all activities you are planning on your trip. If you do not already have a travel insurance policy, you can visit our website to purchase excellent value single-trip and annual policies provided by Travel & General Insurance Company plc. For any assistance with insurance please call the insurer’s helpline directly on 0845 408 0583.

13. MEALS All pre-booked meals will be on a table d’hôte basis. Supplements can apply for à la carte items or restaurants.

14. SPECIAL REQUESTS Whilst we will endeavour to comply with any special requests such as airline seating, diet and room requirements, we can only do so on a ‘goodwill’ basis. As these are usually only provided at the discretion of the relevant supplier, we cannot guarantee availability and cannot be held responsible if they are not provided.

15. EXCURSIONS AND ACTIVITIES We are only responsible for excursions and activities sold by us and which form part of your holiday contract.

16. JURISDICTION This contract is governed by English Law and is subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

17. DATA PROTECTION POLICY In order for us to process your booking we need to store and record your information, including data as supplied. This may include transfer of such information outside of the European Economic Area to parties involved in the arrangements of your holiday. Equally, we use such information for updating our mailing lists and from time to time you may receive travel related information from us or from another company from within Western and Oriental Travel Limited. Should you not wish to receive such literature you must advise us in writing.

18. UK FOREIGN OFFICE ADVICE ON OVERSEAS TRAVEL It is now assumed that British citizens are at risk of terrorism, be it in the UK or when travelling overseas. History has shown us these attacks can either be spontaneous or premeditated. For your guidance we suggest you visit the website of the Foreign Office on: ww.fco.gov.uk or tel: 0845 850 2829. The website is regularly updated and provides you with country-specific information, including advice on terrorism and general matters on health and safety.

19. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION In addition to these general booking conditions, specific relevant destination information may be contained within the individual brochures and websites. See Know Before You Book on pages 118-119.

Registered in England Number: 7558669

4 Red Lion Court, Alexandra Road, Hounslow, TW3 1JS © Western and Oriental Travel Limited All rights reserved.

Date of issue: October 2011

120

Booking Conditions

Western and Oriental Travel LimitedThe COLLeCTiOn

Luxury india

with Sri Lanka, Bhutan & nepal

tel: 020 7666 1212

www.WandOtravel.com

WOrLdWide FamiLy hOLidayS mediterranean, indian Ocean, Caribbean, Far east, africa,

north america, Latin america, india

tel: 020 7666 1230

BeaCheS & reTreaTS Caribbean, Far east, indian

Ocean, arabian Gulf & europe

tel: 020 7666 1234

at Western & Oriental, we are dedicated to providing exemplary luxury tailor-made holidays. Our wide range of destinations includes the stunning indian Ocean, exotic Far east, mystical india and the mediterranean.

auThenTiC ranCh hOLidayS Cattle drives

& Whitewater rafting

tel: 0207 666 1217

www.regent-holidays.co.uk

iceland & Greenland

tel: 020 7666 1290

russia & the alternative east

tel: 0117 921 1711

Regent Holidays is sister company to Western & Oriental and Rainbow tours, and as a specialist tour and travel company they offer holidays and city breaks in destinations as diverse as russia, iceland, Kosovo, mongolia and Korea.

City Breaks in eastern europe & beyond

tel: 0117 921 1711

www.rainbowtours.co.uk

africa & madagascar

tel: 020 7666 1250

Known as africa and madagascar specialists, we have been organising award-winning holidays to this region since 1997, and now also offer a comprehensive programme of tailor-made and small group tours to Latin america.

Latin america

tel: 020 7666 1260

Experience the world in colour

It’s probably no surprise that we love travel. For us though it has to be a certain type of travel – journeys that leave the natural beauty of the destinations we visit unchanged, and where you really get to experience and understand other people and their cultures.

020 7666 1260www.rainbowtours.co.uk

6 A journey through PatagoniaTravel writer Nick Boulos journeys to the very end of the world

23 Chilean WinesThe Wine Detective reports on Chile’s exciting wine portfolio

46 The Inca TrailFormer guide, Sonia Rojas, hikes the classic route to Machu Picchu

84 Central America: My ultimate destinationWell-travelled throughout the region, Simon Forster explains his love affair with Central America

89 Mayan MexicoGuide Hector Gonzalez Cadena talks about his favourite Mayan ruins

114 Cruising to AntarcticaWendy Driver explores the polar regions

Your financial protection The air holiday packages in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority, any packages without flights are covered by ABTA. Our ATOL number is 10417 and our ABTA number is Y1152. Please see our booking conditions for more information

Western and Oriental Travel Limited is the parent company of Rainbow Tours, Western & Oriental and Regent Holidays

Top 20destinations in Latin America

A journey through Patagonia

Hidden corners in Colombia & Guyana

Trekking the Inca Trail

Family-friendly Central America

Cruising to Antarctica

Layden House

76-86 Turnmill Street

London EC1M 5QU

Tel: 020 7666 1260www.rainbowtours.co.ukEmail: [email protected]

ABTA No.Y1152

Latin Am

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Experience the Travel Designers difference whenbooking your Holiday

1) You will save money and time by booking with us 2) A local telephone number and a highly trained and knowledgeable team. You will always be able to

speak to the same consultant, who will have visited many of the Resorts and destinations 3) The ability to email your quote on [email protected], if this is more convenient for you. 4) No call centre or frustrating waiting on the phone. 5) 100% financial protection through ATOL bonding. 6) Independent, expert advice and guidance throughout. 7) 24hr holiday support 8) A specialist agency with in-depth knowledge 9) Free Membership of our Privilege Club - this entitles you to our repeat client discount on all further

holidays, access to some of the best foreign exchange rates, discounted parking and airport lounges,and exclusive offers via our Privilege Club Newsletter

We have a very experienced team who know the destinations inside out, having experienced a huge numberof resorts between them. We know which resorts will suit your requirements and we have exclusive access tooffers to ensure you will get the best available deal.

Travel Designers is pleased to be a specialist agent which recognises not only thevalue of holidays we sell but the consistency of service and knowledge we provide.

Our clients receive exceptional service, advice, added value and come back to us again and again.

If you can't see what you are looking for then please do call us on 020 7720 8484or send us an email on [email protected] - we will be more than happyto help with any Holiday request.

traveldesignerstraveldesignerswww.traveldesigners.co.uk

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