2013 - APT South America

Soak in the sunshine on Leblon Beach, one of the most exclusive stretches of coastline in Rio de Janeiro community and spend some time with the teachers and pupils. Afterwards, head for Wayra, a boutique restaurant and equestrian centre for lunch and a Paso horse demonstration. Later, we travel to the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. BL Day 14. Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. Board PeruRail's Vistadome train and admire the mountainous landscape as you travel to Machu Picchu, located over 2,400 metres above sea level. On arrival at the ruins, enjoy 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. The site remained undiscovered in modern times until the American historian, Hiram Bingham, brought it to international attention in 1911. Stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. BLD 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. Day 15. Machu Picchu, Cusco. This morning, you will have the opportunity to beat the morning rush, with a return visit 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 on the most luxurious rail journey from Machu Picchu to Cusco. On board, savour a Pisco Sour, enjoy Peruvian music and indulge in a four-course Andean-inspired dinner. On arrival back in Cusco check in to your hotel. Two Night Stay: Cusco, Hotel Libertador Palacio del Inka. Day 18. 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. This morning, cruise to the home of the Uros people, a group of more than 40 man-made islands created from floating reeds. Afterwards, you'll visit the isolated Capachica Peninsula, where you'll enjoy great views of the surrounding landscape and enjoy a traditional BBQ lunch. This afternoon, return to your hotel in Puno. BD Day 16. Cusco, Dine Around Dinner. A walking tour of Cusco 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. Later, choose where to dine for either lunch or dinner, your options include Cicciolina; Incanto; MAP Café; or Tunupa Restaurant Bar & Grill. Day 17. Cusco, Lake Titicaca. This morning, board the Andean Explorer for a day-long rail journey to Puno. Travelling in Andean Explorer Class (first class), the landscapes at the start of your trip are dominated by the Andean mountains. Later, you'll reach the Andean Plains. On the way, enjoy access to the lounge car, the open-air bar car, and enjoy a three-course lunch. Two Night Stay: Puno, The Libertador Lake Titicaca, in Lake View Rooms. 54 BL BD BL Day 19. Lake Titicaca, Puerto Maldonado, Luxury Amazon Lodge. After breakfast, fly to Peru and the city of Puerto Maldonado, nestled in the Amazon forest at the confluence of the Tambopata River and the Madre de Dios River – a tributary of the Amazon River. On arrival, visit the butterfly gardens and information centre at the Inkaterra Butterfly House. Then transfer to the jetty and board a motorised canoe for your short cruise along the Madre de Dios River to your incredibly located Amazon accommodation for the next two nights. After checking in, you'll meet with an interpreter to discuss your touring options for the duration of your stay, based on your individual interests, fitness level and the forecast weather conditions. With multiple touring experiences available – all of which are escorted by an English-speaking guide – you're truly spoiled for choice. Two Night Stay: Amazon Rainforest, Inkaterra Reserva Amazònica. BLD

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