South America Touring, Amazon River Cruise, Brazil, Chile, Galapagos Islands, Peru, Antarctic Cruising
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79 CUBA A CARIBBEAN GEM Day 10. Buenos Aires, Freedom of Choice. Today, perhaps head to the island town of Tigre for a cruise over the waterways of the Paraná Delta. You may like to explore the Parisian influence on Buenos Aires during an insightful city walking tour. Alternatively, head to Teatro Colón, one of the finest opera houses in the world. B Day 11. Buenos Aires, Lima (Peru). Board your flight to the Peruvian capital, Lima. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. Two Night Stay: JW Marriott Hotel Lima, Ocean View Rooms. B Day 12. Lima. This morning, enjoy a city tour conducted by a local guide. Visit the Historic Centre of Lima and see the Convent of Santo Domingo, one of the best preserved monasteries in the city. Later, spend a fun afternoon at a private hacienda. Arrive to the upbeat rhythms of live music and dance, before enjoying lunch and an elegant Peruvian Paso horse show. BL Day 13. Lima, Cusco, Chincheros, Sacred Valley. Fly to the World Heritage-listed city of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Travel through the city by coach on the way to Chincheros, set high in the Andes. To the locals of the Andean highlands, weaving is an important way for preserving ancient traditions. During a traditional weaving demonstration, learn how the famously colourful materials of South America are created. Next, settle in to one of Peru's most prestigious hotels in the Sacred Valley. Two Night Stay: Sacred Valley, Tambo del Inka, Luxury Collection by Starwood. BD Day 14. Sacred Valley. A full-day tour exploring the Sacred Valley begins with a visit to the colourful markets of Pisac, a hilltop handicraft village that lies near ancient Inca ruins. Later, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, you'll be invited into the home of a friendly local family to savour an authentic Andean meal, while learning about their culture. Afterwards, travel to the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, once a royal estate belonging to the Inca Emperor Pachacuti. Here, spend some time further discovering the Sacred Valley before returning to your hotel. BL Day 15. Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. Board PeruRail's Vistadome train and travel to Machu Picchu, located more than 2,400 metres above sea level. This ancient Inca citadel remained undiscovered in modern times until the American historian, Hiram Bingham, brought it to international attention in 1911. On arrival at the ruins, set off on a locally guided tour of the iconic Lost City of the Incas. A World Heritage-listed site, it is the most familiar icon of the Inca World. Stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. BD Optional Inca Trail Hike Refer to page 25 or enquire for details. 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 the ancient site to explore at your own pace. Alternatively, relax and enjoy the comforts and facilities of your hotel. Later, board PeruRail's Vistadome for your return trip from Machu Picchu to the Sacred Valley, then transfer by coach to Cusco. On board your train, you'll watch the picturesque mountain scenery glide by. Tonight, choose from one of three tantalising restaurants in Cusco. Your choice includes Limo Cocina Peruana & Pisco Bar for a taste of local Peruvian dishes; enjoy superb Italian cuisine at Incanto; or fine dining 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 Santiago Buenos Aires Rio de Janeiro Cusco Lima Lake Titicaca (Puno) Iguassu Falls Sacred Valley Machu Picchu ARGENTINA PERU CUBA BRAZIL CHILE Valparaíso 1 2 Havana 2 2 4 4 Flight (included) Flight (not included) Rail Coach No. of nights Atacama Extension 3 Atacama 2 2 3 3 Visit the picturesque Viñales region on a day trip from Havana