2016 - TM South America

44 Day 14. Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. Like a Local – today board the Vistadome train and soak up the Andean landscapes as you head to World Heritage-listed Machu Picchu, some 2,400 metres above sea level. On arrival, you'll set out on a locally guided tour of the Lost City of the Incas, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the most familiar icon of the Inca Empire. Stay: Aguas Calientes, El MaPi Hotel. BD HIKE THE FAMOUS INCA TRAIL Feeling adventurous? Why not replace Day 14 touring with a scenic hike to Machu Picchu, before dinner at your hotel. You'll then revisit Machu Picchu the next morning for a tour. See page 67 for details and pricing. Day 15. Machu Picchu, Cusco. With the morning free, perhaps revisit Machu Picchu at leisure. Then re-board the Vistadome train for your return journey through the Peruvian Andes back to Cusco. Stay (Two Nights): Cusco, Palacio del Inka (a Luxury Collection Hotel). B Day 16. Cusco. A guided walking tour through Cusco this morning will take you to the square in the city's historic heart, the Plaza de Armas. During your tour you'll visit the sacred site of Koricancha and the beautiful Baroque church of Santo Domingo. Both fascinating sites provide insight into the unique fusion of ancient Andean and Western European culture. Enjoy a delicious Peruvian dinner and a traditional folklore show at the Tunupa Restaurant Bar & Grill this evening. BD Day 17. Cusco, Lake Titicaca. Take a coach to the city of Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Along the way, you'll stop at the small town of Andahuaylillas, known for its picturesque Sistine chapel. You'll also stop for a hearty buffet lunch. On arrival in Puno, enjoy time at leisure to relax by Lake Titicaca. Stay (Two Nights): Puno, Hotel Jose Antonio. BL Day 18. Lake Titicaca. Set on the border of Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the highest altitude lake in the world. Like a Local – this morning you'll set out on a cruise over the lake to the extraordinary home of the Uros people – a group of more than 40 man-made islands created from floating reeds. On this remarkable trip, you'll enjoy an insight into the Uros' unique way of life and experience the spectacular scenery that characterises the region. In the evening, you'll return to your hotel for a delicious dinner. BD Day 19. Lake Titicaca, Lima. After flying back to Lima, enjoy a guided tour of the World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Lima. A Taste of Lima – this evening, indulge in a Farewell Dinner at Restaurant Huaca Pucllana – set within the ruins of an incredible archaeological compound, beside a colourfully illuminated adobe pyramid. As you dine, re-live the experiences of your tour with your fellow travellers. Stay: Lima, Casa Andina Select Miraflores. BD Day 20. Lima, Quito (Ecuador). Depart Peru and fly to Quito, Ecuador's capital. Stay: Dann Carlton Quito. B Day 21. Quito, Coca, Amazon Cruise. This morning you'll fly to Coca, located in the mighty Amazon. From here, journey downstream by motorised canoe to board the M/V Anakonda. Enjoy dinner this evening then perhaps embark on a nocturnal walk to witness the life emerging in the forest after dark. Stay (Three Nights): M/V Anakonda. BD Day 22. Amazon Cruise. Like a Local – visit the Sani Warmi Kichwa Interpretation Centre to gain insight into Amazonian lifestyles along the Napo River. Listen in as a group of Kichwa women speak of their customs, cuisine and everyday life. In the afternoon, head for an observation tower that's been built against a giant kapok tree. From the top of the tower, absorb the sweeping views over treetops to the beauty of the Amazon. BLD Day 23. Amazon Cruise. This morning, embark on a special walk within Yasuni National Park and learn about the secrets of the Amazon's amazing biodiversity from expert naturalist guides. After lunch, make a stop at the fascinating Yakukawsay Kichwa Interpretation Centre. BLD Day 24. Amazon Cruise, Coca, Quito. After breakfast, you'll disembark your ship for the final time and transfer by motorised canoe back to Coca. From here, fly to Quito. After settling in to your hotel, enjoy dinner. Stay (Three Nights): Dann Carlton Quito. BD Day 25. Quito. Today you'll enjoy a guided tour of Quito, including its historic Old Town. B PERU – meet the local people and learn about the culture of the Uros people on the islands of Lake Titicaca – www.travelmarvel.com.au –

• Cover