2013 - APT South America

Take in views out over Rio de Janeiro from the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer Day 11. Santiago, Lima (Peru). After breakfast this morning, board a flight from Santiago to the starting point for your Peruvian discovery and the country's capital, Lima. On arrival, you'll join a city tour conducted by a local guide. Visit to the World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Lima and see the catacombs of the monastery of San Francisco that link the religious sites of Lima. You'll also tour the Archbishop Palace, the Basilica Cathedral of Lima and much more. After checking in to your hotel, dine at Brujas del Cachiche – a local restaurant set in an old mansion overlooking a lovely park. Stay: Lima, Miraflores Park Hotel by Orient-Express. Day 12. Lima, Cusco, Chincheros, BD Sacred Valley. Departing Lima this morning, you'll fly to the World Heritage-listed city of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. On arrival, travel through the city by coach on the way to the lovely city of Chincheros, set high in the Andean highlands. During a traditional weaving demonstration, learn how the famously colourful materials of South America are created. To the locals of the Andean highlands in Peru, weaving is just as important for preserving ancient traditions as it is for earning a living. Later, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, you'll visit the home of a local family to sample a typical Andean meal. This is a unique opportunity to interact on a cultural level with the people of Peru. Two Night Stay: Sacred Valley, Tambo del Inka, part of the Luxury Collection by Starwood. Taray to visit a special school project organised by APT. Here you can appreciate the donation that APT has contributed on your behalf to the local community, and spend some time with the teachers and pupils. Afterwards, head for Wayra, a boutique restaurant and equestrian centre set in one of the most picturesque corners of the Andes. Enjoy a traditional BBQ lunch and watch a Peruvian Paso horse demonstration, as well as a performance of the 'la marinera' – known as Peru's national dance. Later, we travel to the spectacular archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. During the times of the Incas, Ollantaytambo was a royal estate belonging to Emperor Pachacuti who conquered the region. Here, you'll spend some time further discovering the Sacred Valley the way you wish before returning to your hotel. Hike the Famous Inca Trail The more adventurous can replace Day 14 touring with a five-hour hike to Machu Picchu, before rejoining the group for dinner at your hotel. Revisit Machu Picchu the next morning for your guided tour and morning tea. $295* per person. Must be pre-booked. BL BL Day 13. Sacred Valley. 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 Incan ruins. You'll then make a visit to the community of nearby 42 Day 14. 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 over 2,400 metres above sea level. On arrival at the ruins, enjoy a hearty lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge then set off on a locally guided tour of the iconic Lost City of the Incas – Machu Picchu. Recently named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu was built around 1450, at the height of the Inca Empire, and abandoned just over 100 years later. The site remained undiscovered in modern times until the American historian, 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. After your time here, return to town and check in to your charming hotel. Stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. BLD Day 15. Machu Picchu, Cusco. As you wake this morning, you'll realise how incredibly close you are to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. You will have the opportunity to beat the morning rush, and return to Machu Picchu to experience the site in true serenity at your own pace. Alternatively, relax and enjoy the comforts and facilities of your hotel. This afternoon, board Orient- Express' exclusive Hiram Bingham train for what is the most luxurious rail journey from Machu Picchu to Cusco. On board, you'll savour a Pisco Sour, enjoy live Peruvian music and indulge in a sumptuous four-course Andean-inspired dinner. On arrival back in Cusco disembark, and check in to your hotel. Two Night Stay: Cusco, Hotel Libertador Palacio del Inka. BD Day 16. Cusco, Dine Around Dinner. 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 Santo Domingo. After free time you may wish to dine at one of the following restaurants for lunch or save your Dine Around Dinner for this evening's meal. Your choice of

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