2017 - APT South America

46 Get up close to the dense rainforest of the Amazon on exciting excursions throughout your cruise Day 15. Sacred Valley, Maras, Moray. This morning, witness the dazzling sight of the Maras salt mines, where thousands of glistening salt pools spill over the side of a steep terraced slope. Venture down the steps and wander along the terraces to see local families tending to their pools. Your next stop is the Moray archaeological site, a fascinating collection of ancient terraced fields which were likely used by the Incas for agricultural experiments. Here, you'll enjoy enchanting views over the deep terraces during lunch at El Parador de Moray. BL Day 16. 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. On arrival at the ruins, set off on a locally guided tour of the iconic Lost City of the Incas. This ancient Inca citadel remained undiscovered in modern times until the American historian, Hiram Bingham, brought it to international attention in 1911. Today, it is a World Heritage-listed site and the most familiar icon of the Inca World. Stay: Machu Picchu, Sumaq Hotel. BD Day 17. Machu Picchu, Cusco. You will have the chance to beat the morning rush and return to experience Machu Picchu early this morning. This afternoon, board PeruRail's Vistadome train for your return trip to the Sacred Valley, then transfer by coach to Cusco. Two Night Stay: Cusco, JW Marriott Hotel. BD Day 18. Cusco, Freedom of Choice. 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. Afterwards, choose from three restaurants for lunch. BL Day 19. Cusco, Iquitos, Embark Amazon Cruise. Fly via Lima to Iquitos, located on the mighty Amazon. Here, board your river ship for your Amazon cruise, during which you'll have the opportunity to go fishing for piranhas, among many other highlights as you explore Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. Listen to the rhythmic sounds of the jungle this evening as you settle in for your first night aboard. Four Night Cruise: Delfin II. BD Day 20. Amazon Cruise, Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. Rise early to glimpse wildlife at its most active from the comfort of your ship. With a coffee or tea in hand, this is a rewarding way in which to begin your morning. Spend today exploring Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, home to some 500 bird species, more than 100 mammal species, nearly 70 species of reptiles, 58 types of amphibians and almost 270 species of fish. Cruise El Dorado River and see the playful grey and pink river dolphins. Also watch for snail kites, scarlet macaws, Amazonian parrotlets, iguanas and squirrel monkeys as you explore the river. BLD Day 21. Amazon Cruise. Enjoy a rainforest hike among trees that rise up to 55 metres high. Turn your gaze skyward and watch for birds such as the Bluish-fronted Jacamar and Red-capped Cardinals. Enjoy lunch on board then travel by skiff over the Pacaya River at sunset. Perhaps join a thrilling night safari. BLD Day 22. Amazon Cruise. Cruise in skiffs in search of shore birds, such as sandpipers and kingfishers. After, visit the Yanallpa community to interact with villagers and learn about their riverside way of life. This afternoon, keep an eye out for some of the Amazon's unique wildlife, such as sloths, bald uakaris and saddleback tamarins. Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Dinner followed by live music. BLD Day 23. Disembark Amazon Cruise, Iquitos, Lima. Board a skiff bound for Puerto Miguel to meet local villagers. After returning to your ship, disembark then transfer to Iquitos. Here, visit the Manatee Rescue Centre, where volunteers care for the endangered mammals. In the afternoon, board your flight to Lima. Stay: Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport. BL Day 24. Depart Lima. After breakfast this morning, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. B www.aptouring.com.au Optional Inca Trail Hike The more adventurous can replace Day 16 touring with an eight-hour hike to Machu Picchu, before rejoining the group for dinner at your hotel. Revisit Machu Picchu the next morning for your guided tour. $495 per person. Must be pre-booked.

• Cover