South America Touring, Amazon River Cruise, Brazil, Chile, Galapagos Islands, Peru, Antarctic Cruising
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98 Day 1. Arrive Lima (Peru). On arrival in Lima, be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Settle in to your room and take in the magnificent ocean views. Tonight at a Welcome Reception, meet your APT Tour Director and your fellow travellers. Stay: JW Marriott Hotel Lima, Ocean View Rooms. Day 2. Lima, Cusco, Chincheros, Sacred Valley. Fly to the World Heritage-listed city of Cusco this morning. On arrival, travel through the city by coach on the way to the lovely town of Chincheros, set in the Andean highlands. During a traditional weaving demonstration, learn how the famously colourful materials of South America are created. Later, head to your luxurious hotel, which overlooks a river in the tranquil Sacred Valley. Two Night Stay: Sacred Valley, Tambo del Inka, Luxury Collection by Starwood. BD Day 3. Sacred Valley. Today, a full-day tour in and around the Sacred Valley begins with a visit to the markets of Pisac, a hilltop handicraft village that lies near Inca ruins. Later, enjoy lunch then travel to the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo for a tour of this ancient royal Inca estate before returning to your hotel. BL Day 4. Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. Board PeruRail's Vistadome train and admire the 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 guided tour of the iconic Lost City of the Incas. This ancient Inca citadel was built around 1450, at the height of the Inca Empire, and remained undiscovered in modern times until the American, Hiram Bingham, brought it to international attention in 1911. Today, it's a World Heritage-listed site and the most familiar icon of the Inca World. Stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. BD Day 5. Machu Picchu, Cusco. Wake this morning close to Machu Picchu. Perhaps return to Machu Picchu to experience the site in true serenity, or simply relax at your hotel. This afternoon, board PeruRail's Vistadome for your return trip from Machu Picchu to Sacred Valley. Then, as you transfer by coach to Cusco, watch the picturesque mountain scenery glide by. Two Night Stay: Cusco, Hotel Libertador Palacio del Inka. BD Day 6. Cusco, Freedom of Choice. This morning's walking tour around the World Heritage-listed city of Cusco takes you to the Plaza de Armas, a square in the city's historic heart. You'll also visit the sacred site of Koricancha and the Cusco Cathedral. Later, perhaps head to the Limo Cocina Peruana & Pisco Bar for a taste of local Peruvian dishes; enjoy superb Italian cuisine at Incanto; or indulge in fine dining at the MAP Café. BL Day 7. Cusco, Lima. Fly back to Lima and tour the city with a local guide. Visit the World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Lima and see the Convent of Santo Domingo. Known as the 'City of Kings', here you'll discover an artful combination of colonial monuments and lively local culture. Stay: JW Marriott Hotel Lima, Ocean View Rooms. BD Freedom of Choice TM Sightseeing Freedom of Choice TM Dining Signature Experiences Board the Sea Explorer and cruise amid the magical frozen landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula 30 Day Best of South America with 10-Night Antarctica Cruise Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands Expedition Cruise Optional Inca Trail Hike Refer to page 25 or enquire for details. www.aptouring.com.au