South America Touring, Amazon River Cruise, Brazil, Chile, Galapagos Islands, Peru, Antarctic Cruising
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64 Be inspired by the vibrant shades of Arequipa 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. 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 special and 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 reeds that grow in the shallows of the lake. BL Day 20. Puno, Colca Canyon. Travel through the mountainous landscapes of the Andes to the epic Colca Canyon this morning. On your way, you'll see incredible manmade stepped terraces, many of which date back to pre-Inca times. Stacked upon each other like staircases, most of these fields are still tended to by local farmers, whose livelihood depends on the potatoes, beans, barley and quinoa that grow here. Check in to your hotel, perched at the bottom of a terraced valley, and enjoy the rest of the day to explore your surrounds at leisure. You may like to meet alpacas at the hotel's barn, or try your hand at fishing in the nearby river. Two Night Stay: Colca Canyon, Las Casitas del Colca. BD Day 21. Colca Canyon. This morning, travel to the Mirador Cruz del Condor viewpoint in the heart of the Colca Canyon and gain unparalleled panoramic views of one of the world's deepest canyons. Perhaps see the legendary Andean condor rising and circling on the morning thermals, silhouetted against the magnificent backdrop of the pastoral Andean scenery. Afterwards, visit picturesque towns in the valley to see their beautiful colonial churches, then return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. BD Day 22. Colca Canyon, Arequipa. Today, travel by coach to radiant Arequipa, known as the 'White City' for its many heritage buildings made of white volcanic material. The unrelenting beauty of the surrounding landscapes and a skyline dominated by three volcanoes, is sure to inspire. This evening, you'll savour a taste of Peru during dinner at a local restaurant, all the while being immersed in the city's culture. Two Night Stay: Arequipa, Casa Andina Private Collection. BD Day 23. Arequipa. After breakfast, embark on a half-day city tour of Arequipa. Visit the historic World Heritage-listed town centre, where you have the opportunity to take in the fascinating colonial architecture, including the famous Santa Catalina Convent. This cloister, built in the 16th century, is a vast complex of buildings that once served as a town. More than 450 nuns had lived here over the course of its 400-year history, completely isolated from the outside world. Today, the convent complex is beautifully refurbished, bringing the past vividly alive once more. The afternoon is then yours to spend at your leisure in this historic city. B Day 24. Arequipa, Lima. Today you'll fly from Arequipa back to Lima. This evening provides you with the opportunity to relax and bid goodbye to your fellow travellers and Tour Director over farewell drinks. Stay: JW Marriott Hotel Lima, Ocean View Rooms. B Day 25. Depart Lima. After breakfast, your South American adventure concludes with a transfer to Lima airport for your onward flight. B www.aptouring.com.au