South America Touring, Amazon River Cruise, Brazil, Chile, Galapagos Islands, Peru, Antarctic Cruising
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36 From Santiago, you might like to head to the colourful seaside city of Valparaíso Day 15. Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. Board PeruRail's Vistadome train and admire the mountainous Andean landscape outside your large panoramic windows as you travel to Machu Picchu, located more than 2,400 metres above sea level. On arrival at the ruins, set off on a locally guided tour of the iconic Lost City of the Incas. This ancient Inca citadel remained undiscovered in modern times until the American historian, Hiram Bingham, brought it to international attention in 1911. Today, it is a World Heritage-listed site and the most familiar icon of the Inca World. After your unforgettable time here, settle in to your charming hotel. Stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. BD Day 16. Machu Picchu, Cusco, Freedom of Choice. As you wake this morning, you'll realise how close you are to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. You will have the opportunity to beat the morning rush and return to experience the site in its true serenity at your own pace. Alternatively, relax and enjoy the comforts and facilities of your hotel. This afternoon, board PeruRail's Vistadome for your return trip from Machu Picchu to the Sacred Valley, then transfer by coach to Cusco. Aboard your train, you'll watch the picturesque mountain scenery glide by. On arrival in Cusco, check in to your hotel and absorb the Spanish colonial charm. This evening, choose from three restaurants for dinner. Perhaps head to Limo Cocina Peruana & Pisco Bar for a taste of local Peruvian dishes; enjoy superb Italian cuisine at Incanto; or fine dining from an eclectic menu at the renowned MAP Café. Two Night Stay: Cusco, JW Marriott Hotel. BD Day 17. Cusco. A walking tour of Cusco this morning will take you to the square in the city's historic heart, the Plaza de Armas, as well as the sacred sites of Koricancha and Cusco Cathedral. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure exploring this timeless city. B Day 18. Cusco, Lake Titicaca. This morning, board the Andean Explorer for a day-long rail journey into the highlands and on to Puno, reaching up to 4,335 metres above sea level. The start of your trip is dominated by the Andes towering over the valleys below. Later, you'll reach the Andean plains, home to wild vicuña and alpaca. On the way, enjoy access to the lounge car and the open-air observation bar car, and be treated to a three-course lunch. On arrival in Puno, settle in to your hotel on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Two Night Stay: Puno, The Libertador Lake Titicaca, Lake View Rooms. BL Day 19. Puno, Lake Titicaca. Located on the border of Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is situated at 3,800 metres above sea level, making it the highest altitude lake in the world. Travel by speedboat to the village of Luquina. Here, visit a unique school project where you can appreciate the donation to the local community that APT has contributed on your behalf. After spending time with teachers and pupils, enjoy a local village lunch with views of the Capachica Peninsula. This afternoon, cruise to the islands of the Uros people, which have been built entirely with the reeds that grow in the shallows of the lake. BL Day 20. Lake Titicaca, Lima. After flying back to Lima, transfer to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy an exclusive evening of fine dining and camaraderie at one of Lima's most impressive historic residences, Casa Garcia Alvarado. Your night begins in the elegant drawing room, where you'll be served hors d'oeuvres and pisco sours. Take a tour of the magnificent home and soak up its colonial-style interior, before being joined by a member of the Garcia Alvarado family for a delicious Peruvian Farewell Dinner. Stay: JW Marriott Hotel Lima, Ocean View Rooms. BD Day 21. Depart Lima. After breakfast, your South American journey comes to an end with a transfer to Lima airport. B www.aptouring.com.au Optional Inca Trail Hike The more adventurous can replace Day 15 touring with an eight-hour hike to Machu Picchu, before rejoining the group for dinner at your hotel. Revisit Machu Picchu the next morning for your guided tour. $400 per person. Must be pre-booked.