Professional Documents
Culture Documents
LatiN aMeRica
2
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3
contents
4 Planning your trip
5 travel essentials
8 getting there
9 travel insurance
10 where to stay
11 your adventure
130 booking conditions
planning
your trip
where should I go?
Think carefully about the places you’d like to
money
Most countries in Latin America have their own
how can i book?
pick up the phone or VISIT A BRANCH and
visit, what you want to see and experience. individual currency, but you'll usually be able to make a free appointment with one of
Wherever you go, prepare to be struck by the get by with American dollars, so it's definitely our advisers.
unbridled passion and vivacious idealism of the worth taking some for emergencies. Indeed some
Latin American people. The sheer geographical countries (Ecudaor in particular) have reverted Call: 134 STA
and ecological diversity of this huge land mass entirely to using the US Dollar. Click: statravel.com.au
makes every single destination a completely Find your closest branch at:
different experience. Choose the alpine peaks, Every major town and city in Latin America will statravel.com.au/branches
enormous glaciers and icy cold waters of the have ATMs, so you'll have quick and easy access
South, choose verdant Amazonian Jungle or to your funds with your credit, debit or Travelex
razor dry deserts and breathless mountain trails. Cash Card (see page 5).
Mingle with the beautiful people in the bars and
clubs of a lively Latino City or just lie back on an We’ll help you work out a budget when you
immaculate beach, sip on a cocktail and let the book your trip, but think about where you’ll be
sun regenerate every inch of your body. Whoever going, how long you’ll be away for and what
you are, whatever you want from Latin America - you’ll be doing whilst you are there. Many of
we know that we’ll be able to deliver it. our adventure trips include nearly everything
you need to survive, so you’ll only need a small
So once you’ve flicked through this brochure and amount of money per day to get by. This amount
drawn up a rough plan, visit your nearest STA is normally calculated by establishing how many
Travel branch and chat to one of our friendly additional activities you want to enjoy and how
advisers. All of our staff are seasoned travellers, much shopping, drinking and eating you intend
so they’re full of helpful advice, tips and tales to do whilst you're away.
about the places that you’re planning to visit.
Make sure you book at least your first few nights
getting around accommodation before you leave. You'll find that
We feature a huge range of ways to get around it's quite a bit cheaper, so you'll save yourself
this vast continent. Many Latin American lots of cash. You certainly don’t want to find
countries, especially the more developed yourself scraping together a few dollars for a
ones like Brazil, Argentina and Mexico boast hotel bed after a long flight.
long, scenic, well-maintained roads and loads
of well-connected airports. STA Travel take
full advantage of this to make sure you get
around the continent as safely, comfortably
and efficiently as possible. Our adventure trips
utilise a variety of transportation methods; one
day you'll be bumping along an exciting off road
track, the next you'll be cruising along a scenic
river - or you might simply be using your own
two feet, as you trek a timeless trail.
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5
travel
essentials
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Whether you’re planning on following the Inca
KEEP TRACK OF YOUR CASH
TRAVELEX CASH CARD
student (ISIC) AND YOUTH (IYTC) CARDS
If you want to get access to over 41,000
trail to the peaks of Machu Picchu, soaking What the!?! We’re talking Cash Passports - discounts worldwide then you’ll want to pick
up the sun in Rio or exploring the Amazon same size as a credit card but with no debt & up a student (ISIC) or youth (IYTC) card. These
Jungle, you’d be crazy to leave home without better services. You never know what’s in store puppies are available to you if you’re a full time
travel insurance. STA Travel offers a range when you’re travelling overseas. So make sure student or lucky enough to still be under 26
of travel insurance policies that cover you you’re armed with a Cash Passport, the only years old. They’re only $25 each and you’ll save
for the benefits you need, such as cover for prepaid travel money card that prepares you more than that along the way, so are well worth
medical, cancellation, emergency transport for the unexpected. With a free backup card, the spend! Not only that but they can also be
and accommodation and new for old luggage Travelex’s own 24/7 Emergency Assistance used for discounts here in Australia:
(subject to the policy wording). This way should Services and access to VISA’s global network,
anything go wrong, you’ll be able to avoid Cash Passports are the most convenient way to • Jeans West
the dreaded phone call home and get on with access funds abroad. 5% off
enjoying your holiday. Don’t risk it, ask your STA
Travel adviser about travel insurance. There are two types of cards available: • Wagamama
Note: Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please read the PDS available
from STA Travel in considering this product.
10% off meal (up to $30)
Cash Passport Card - Can be used at any VISA
HEALTH ATM Worldwide and it can be reloaded whilst • Krispy Kreme
It’s your responsibility to obtain proper and overseas or better still, back at home by a family Free glazed doughnut with any drink purchase
detailed medical advice in good time before member. It’s available in AUD, NZD, GBP, USD and
your departure. We suggest that you visit EUR offering you the ability to lock in your value • Hoyts
the Department of Health website at www. no matter what happens to the exchange rate. Free combo upgrade & student rates
health.gov.au for up to date information.
Your local Doctor can also give advice on which Cash Passport Debit - The latest in cards, • Mountain Designs
vaccinations you’ll need for particular countries. not only can you access your money at any 10% off all full priced items
VISA ATM around the world. You can now make
VISAS purchases at any merchant that accepts VISA • Lonely Planet
Your trip of a lifetime will quickly grind to a cards (Gucci, Prada anyone!). The VISA ATM card 15% off all online purchases
screeching halt if you forget to sort out your is now available in AUD, NZD, GBP, USD and EUR.
entrance visas. Please don’t forget to check with • Hard Rock Cafe
one of our friendly advisers for visa requirements Features common to both cards: 20% off menu price
for the countries that you are planning to visit. If
you do require visas, we should be able to help you • Convenient – issued instantly, no need • STA Travel
get one – so you can sit back and relax. to carry ID or wait until the bank is open Up to 40% off international trips
to get money out
tefl
Make the best use of your time away, immerse • Prepaid – no unexpected credit card bill
yourself in a new culture, add to your resume upon your return
and gain a skill for life. Millions of people are
learning English worldwide in the most far flung • Toll-free access to Travelex’s 24/7
of places. Why don't you teach English abroad? Emergency Assistance Services
Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is
a recognised qualification. Anyone can do it and • Second backup card (connected to the
there is no need for prior teaching experience same pool of funds) provided for FREE.
- just enthusiasm. Learn to teach English as a This means no inconvenience or delay if
foreign language either on-line or as part of a your original card is stolen or misplaced
weekend course with our Premier TEFL course.
Once certified you can then take advantage of • Ability to reload via BPAY anywhere in
one of the many paid teaching opportunities the world
available around the world. Fund your travels and
never run out of cash. statravel.i-to-i.com/tefl • View balances, change PIN and find VISA
ATMs online
Online courses Fr $340
Weekend courses Fr $492 • Flat $3.75 ATM withdrawal fee applies
6
Santa Marta •
Cartagena •
• Coro
• Caracas • Puerto la Cruz
south
America
panama
venezuela • Ciudad Bolivar
• Canaima N.P.
guyana
Santa Elena • suriname french
guiana
Boa Vista •
colombia
Otavalo •
Quito • • Cayambe
• Baños
equador • Belém
• Cuenca • Santaém
Manaus • • São Luis
• Tumbes • Jericoacoara
• Fortaleza
• Manorca peru
Praia de Pipa •
• Huanchaco
• Trujilo Recife •
brazil
• Lima
• Amazon Jungle
• Potosí
Uyuni •
Salt Lakes •
• San Pedro de Atacama paraguay • Rio de Janeiro
Paraty • • Ilha Grande
chile São Paulo •
Iguassu Falls •
argentina
Córdoba •
La Serena • • Salto
Rosario •
• Mendoza Uruguay
Santiago • Buenos Aires •
• Colonia
• Montevideo
La
Ha
yo ña
Pa s •
va
lm •
Ju les • P
na
lia •
a S
• or
• El Calafate
•L a
as
cuba
o
Te
rr
in
az
ar
as
de
• Cancún
lR
• Mexico City
• Puebla
• Belize City
Ushuaia • San Ignacio • • Caye Caulker
Palenque • belize
• Oaxaca • Utila Bay Islands
Monte Albán • • Flores
• San Cristobal • La Ceiba
• Rio Dulce
guatemala honduras
Panajachel • • Tegucigalpa
• Copán
Antigua • • Guatemala
el salvador nicaragua
central
• Granada
America
San José • • Puerto Viejo • Panama City
costa rica
panama • Santa Clara
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7
YOUR ITINERARY
FLIGHTS HOTELS & HOSTELS
INSURANCE
TOTAL
8
getting there
WHY FLY WITH STA TRAVEL? ROUND THE WORLD
Aside from our great prices, many of our airfares are unique & exclusive. This is something we specialise in. We practically invented the concept of
We offer a wide range of products negotiated just for you. We can book flying Round the World, so we’ve got a huge range of choices and plenty of
just about anything you desire, from simple return tickets to tailor-made suggestions for you.
complex round-the-world itineraries. Here are some of the things that
make us stand out from the crowd. There are loads of ways to include Latin America in your Round the World trip.
To kick start your imagination, we’ve picked out one of our favourite itineraries.
• Lowest fares with leading airlines when you book in advance
for students holding an ISIC card / youths under 26 (see page 5) Get your Latino on, per favor! Start your Round the World trip in sultry
or teachers holding an ITIC card. South America when you fly straight into Buenos Aires; lap up the capital
before tangoing your way to the beaches of Rio for one saucy Copacabana
• Flexibility to change your travel dates before and of a time. Next head to the big smoke (Amsterdam) where everything
after departure. feels strangely higher than usual, before embracing your inner shopaholic
in Milan and landing in lovely-jubbly London. Now we’re talking - pubs,
• Flexibility to change your route before and after departure. pints and Primark - pukka! Catch your breath then rock onto Bangkok
where boys are ladies and markets float. Take your time in Thailand before
• The option to build your own itinerary using our exclusive sector heading to Hong Kong; take one final shot at maxing out your credit card
fares. Don’t compromise when creating your perfect trip. before boarding your flight back to the land of Oz. Phew!
• Fares available from all Australian departure airports. Australia – Buenos Aires – overland – Rio de Janeiro – Amsterdam –
overland – Milan – London – Bangkok – overland – Hong Kong – Australia
• Open Jaw tickets - fly into one airport and out of another.
• Try and be a little flexible with your dates and check out flying
on a weekday instead of the weekend.
• Think about flying outside of peak times e.g. if you are flying to
Latin America the best deals are usually available for travel
between Feb & Nov.
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9
travel insurance
WITH YOU NO MATTER HOW WILD THE RIDE
We hope you have an awesome trip, but to put it bluntly, if something does THE COVER YOU CAN EXPECT
happen (and it happens all the time), you’ll want travel insurance, not a No complicated plans to choose from, just great cover you can rely on.
$50,000+ medical bill! Here’s some of the inclusions you can expect with your international policy:
• $Unlimited overseas medical and dental cover
We know how important it is for you to have an amazing journey and travel • $Unlimited additional expenses
insurance is probably the last thing on your mind. However, our experience • $Unlimited amendment or cancellation costs
tells us travelling without cover is simply not a risk worth taking.
Imagine getting sick in a foreign country and being refused treatment until Plus, cover for:
you can guarantee payment of medical bills. Even worse, imagine getting • Luggage and travel documents (including sporting equipment
the wrong treatment! while in use)
• Delayed luggage allowance
It’s a scary thought, but these kinds of things happen all too often, all over • Money
the world. Having an emergency assistance team of experienced doctors, • Rental car insurance excess
nurses and case managers on call to help you when you’re in trouble is why • Travel delay
having the right travel insurance is so important. • Resumption of journey
• Special events
STA Travel Insurance gives you much more than medical cover. It also covers • Hospital incidentals
emergency transport and accommodation costs, includes cover for cancellation • Hijacking
and for your belongings should they be lost, damaged, stolen or delayed. • Loss of income
• Disability
You wouldn’t go camping without a tent – you shouldn’t book your • Accidental death
holiday without travel insurance! • Personal liability
where
to stay?
Star ratings are often not the best way to categorise hotels. Depending on what country you’re
travelling through, perceptions of each standard can vary quite dramatically. To make things much
easier for you, we’re giving you our own, very educated opinion on each property that we feature. We
have three very straightforward accommodation categories to choose from: STAysimple, STAysmart
and STAystylish. Read below for a description of each.
The majority of our STAysimple properties These are modern, international standard These hotels are relatively small in size, which
have great locations – in the heart of all the hotels, so expect a plethora of great facilities. means close and personal attention. Superlative
action, and many of them boast popular bars All rooms will have private bathrooms, air-con service and an unforgettable experience are
and vibrant social scenes. Facilities are generally and a host of modern amenities. You can also more or less guaranteed. After a fantastically
limited, but this is compensated for by the expect loads of great facilities – most will have hectic adventure trip or an early morning flight,
friendly and helpful staff. Many of these options a pool, gymnasium and a couple of restaurants. it definitely pays to splash a little cash and book
will have shared bathrooms. STAysmart hotels are ideal for city stopovers. yourself into one of these wonderful hotels.
Some of our favourite STAysimple properties Some of our favourite STAysmart properties Some of our favourite STAystylish properties
include El Misti Hostel in Rio, Millhouse Hostel in include Castelar Hotel in Buenos Aires, Inglaterra include the Duo Boutique in Lima, Hotel del Patio
Buenos Aires and the Point Hostel in Cuzco. in Havana and the Cancún Caribe International. in Santiago and the Pousada Corsário in Búzios.
All accommodation prices - Dorm: per person per night. Single/Twin/Double: per room per night.
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11
your
adventure
STA Travel partner with leading tour companies
who provide fantastic adventures across the
globe to give you a variety of styles of travel and
experiences to choose from when planning your
big trip. They are our ‘perfect partners’ as they
share the same passion for travel as we do and
we guarantee you will get the cheapest price on
their trips through us. Our perfect partner for
Latin America is Gap Adventures.
explore
south
america
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13
SOUTH AMERICA
EXPLORE
argentina bolivia brazil
Given the sheer size of Argentina it's no wonder Bolivia will have you saying OMG! more than ever Think of South America and think of Rio de
the gauchos (cowboys) roam free for weeks on before. This off-the-beaten-track amusement Janeiro, with its colourful Carnival, Copacabana
end. Aside from the pampas there's a wealth of park is definitely making its mark on travellers’ Beach and the statue of Christ the Redeemer
diverse landscape and experiences to be had. radars. With the world's highest capital city watching over all that lies below. Think of
Marvel at the breathtaking elegance of the (La Paz), the world's largest salt flat (the Salar beautiful people, football, the Amazon Jungle,
Iguassu Falls, ski the snow-capped mountains in de Uyuni), South America's largest lake (Lake the magnificent Iguassu Falls, miles and miles of
Bariloche, try top quality wines from Salta, eat Titicaca) and a very explorable mix of mountains, white sandy coastline and stunning destinations
steaks as large as your head in Buenos Aires and Amazonian jungle and colourful local markets like Ilha Grande and Salvador. Brazil is home
journey all the way to Patagonia for further stark - you'll soon fall in love with everything about to all of this and much more - prepare to
contrasts. You'll never want to go home. Bolivia. Especially the very friendly people! experience everything you've ever dreamed of.
discover
south america
these trips are built back to back, so segment 4: in search of iguassu segment 7: above the equator
you CAN choose to travel one segment 17 days, buenos aires to rio de janeiro 23 DAYS, caracas to quito
or piece several together to create fr $2,129 see page 74 Tour Code: GAJRB fr $3,069 Tour Code: GAJCQ
your perfect south american journey Take 17 days to explore Buenos Aires to Rio Explore cosmopolitan Caracas before heading
from anywhere you like! and everything in between! Cross into Uruguay west along the coast to Choroni, the gateway
and travel to the nation’s capital where you'll to Henri Pittier National Park. Discover the
segment 1: andean discovery get a true feel for Uruguayan culture. Relax in captivating fishing town of Chichiriviche and
16 days, lima to la paz the thermal baths of Salto before heading off to visit Moroccoy National Park. Journey into the
Fr $2,189 see page 28 Tour Code: GAJML Iguassu Falls, which sits on the borders of Brazil, colonial town of Coro, before crossing into
Begin your trip in Lima before heading to Pisco. Paraguay and Argentina. Explore Paraty, known Colombia. Wander around the country’s oldest
Fly over the Nazca Lines before reaching colonial for it’s colonial architecture and beaches, and town, Santa Marta, then visit Tayrona National
Arequipa for excursions to the Colca Canyon. move on to Ilha Grande to relax on the beach Park. Travelling along the coast, your next stop
Cuzco and the Inca Trail are next on the list! while sipping caipirinhas. Mmm the perfect end is Cartagena before heading to Quito.
Watching dawn break over Machu Picchu at the to a perfect trip!
end of a four day trek is the experience of a segment 8: ecuador & peru experience
lifetime. Travel to the shores of Lake Titicaca, segment 5: northern brazil highlights 16 DAYS, quito to lima
sail over to the floating Uros islands and stay 29 days, rio de janeiro to manaus fr $1,539 Tour Code: GAJQM
overnight with a local family. The trip ends in the fr $3,249 Tour Code: GASZRN From the Equator to the jungle to the coastal
cultural centre of Bolivia, La Paz. From Afro-Brazilian Bahia to the mighty Amazon desert. From Quito, head to the edge of the
and all the beaches and dunes in between, Amazon to a small town named Coca, your home
segment 2: the atacama crossing this trip highlights the best of Northern Brazil. in the Amazon for the next three days. After all
20 days, la paz to santiago Explore Rio with its world famous beaches and the bird watching, jungle walks and wildlife you
fr $1,709 see page 96 Tour Code: GAJLS nightlife. Visit Bahia, heart of Afro-Brazilian can handle, head to Baños, famous for its volcano
Travel for three weeks through Bolivia and Chile culture, and follow the coast past historic and thermal springs. Explore Cuenca before
and experience the diversity of each stop. The cities and remote beaches to the mouth of the continuing to the other side of the border; Peru!
cultural centre of Bolivia and also the highest Amazon. Follow the river to its heart at Manaus, End your trip in the “City of Kings”.
capital in the world, La Paz won't disappoint. an important trading city of the northern
Continue on to Cochabamba and Sucre before Amazon region and the largest jungle city in the
heading to Potosi. Spend the next three days world. In 29 days this trip does it all! our favourites
in 4WD vehicles exploring the mountains and
blinding white salt flats between Uyuni and the segment 6: caribbean amazon connect santiago - rio
Atacama Desert in Chile. Travel to beachside La 14 days, manaus to caracas Segment 3 & 4 or vice versa
fr $3,009 Tour Code: GAJSR
Serena before ending the tour in Santiago. fr $4,069 Tour Code: GASZNC
From the mighty Amazon to the world’s tallest
lima - santiago
segment 3: southern sojourn waterfall and the Caribbean coast, this trip has Segment 1 & 2 or vice versa
13 days, santiago to buenos aires your unspoilt beaches, spectacular scenery fr $3,659 Tour Code: GAJMS
fr $1,419 see page 80 Tour Code: GAJSB and still manages to keep off the beaten path.
From Santiago, journey through the Andes. Climb Starting in Manaus and ending in Caracas, you'll rio de janeiro - quito
a volcano, hike in the mountains or go rafting witness the tallest waterfall in the world, loads Segment 5, 6 & 7 or vice versa
fr $7,969 Tour Code: GAJRQ
in Pucon before heading to the gateway of of uber-interesting wildlife and there'll be time
Patagonia in Puerto Montt and Varas. Arrive in to lie back and relax on a Caribbean beach. lima - rio de janeiro
stunning Bariloche, known for it’s hiking and bike Segment 1, 2, 3 & 4 or vice versa
trails. Travel to vibrant Buenos Aires and catch a fr $6,489 Tour Code: GAJMR
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15
SOUTH AMERICA
EXPLORE
Santa Marta • • Coro
Cartagena • • Caracas • Puerto la Cruz
panama
venezuela • Ciudad Bolivar
• Canaima N.P.
guyana
Santa Elena • suriname french
guiana
Boa Vista •
colombia
Otavalo •
Quito • • Cayambe
• Baños
equador • Belém
• Cuenca • Santaém
Manaus • • São Luis
• Tumbes • Jericoacoara
• Fortaleza
• Manorca peru
Praia de Pipa •
• Huanchaco
• Trujilo Recife •
brazil
• Lima
• Amazon Jungle
• Potosí
Uyuni •
Salt Lakes •
• San Pedro de Atacama paraguay • Rio de Janeiro
Paraty • • Ilha Grande
chile Iguassu Falls • São Paulo •
argentina
La Serena • • Salto
Uruguay
Santiago •
• Colonia
Buenos Aires •
• Montevideo
Pucón •
southern
cross
45 DAYS, $5,199 fr
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17
SOUTH AMERICA
EXPLORE
Head over to Paraty, located on Brazil’s ‘Costa
Verde (Green Coast). Cobblestones, cafés and
cachaça is coupled with a pretty historical centre
and the natural beauty of its surroundings. An
optional cruise around the beaches and coves
will help you appreciate all those cachaça based
cocktails a little better.
Get lost in some dinosaur tracks on an optional soaked on a high speed boat tour under the
trip out of the city. spray of the falls. You have been warned!
DEPARTURES - FEB: FRI, MAR - OCT: TUE & FRI, NOV & DEC: FRI
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 APR 9 MAY 23 JUN 4 JUL 18 JUL30 SEP 12
FEB 5 MAR 21 APR 13 MAY 27 JUN 8 JUL 22 AUG 3 SEP 16
peru
FEB 12 MAR 28 APR 16 MAY 30 JUN 11 JUL 25 AUG 6 SEP 19
FEB 19 APR 4 ARP 20 JUN 3 JUN 15 JUL 29 AUG 10 SEP 23 • Lima
FEB 26 ARP 11 APR 23 JUN 6 JUN 18 AUG 1 AUG 13 SEP 26 Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo
MAR 2 APR 15 APR 27 JUN 10 JUN 22 AUG 5 AUG 17 SEP 30 Pisco •
• Nazca • Cuzco
MAR 5 APR 18 APR 30 JUN 13 JUN 25 AUG 8 AUG 20 OCT 3 brazil
MAR 9 APR 22 MAY 4 JUN 17 JUN 29 AUG 12 AUG 24 OCT 7
• Puno bolivia
Colca Canyon •
MAR 12 APR 25 MAY 7 JUN 20 JUL 2 AUG 15 AUG 27 OCT 10 Arequipa • La Paz •
MAR 16 APR 29 MAY 11 JUN 24 JUL 6 AUG 19 AUG 31 OCT 14 • Santa Cruz
MAR 19 MAY 2 MAY 14 JUN 27 JUL 9 AUG 22 SEP 3 OCT 17
MAR 23 MAY 6 MAY 18 JUL 1 JUL 13 AUG 26 SEP 7 OCT 21
• Sucre
Potosí • • Pantanal
MAR 26 MAY 9 MAY 21 JUL 4 JUL 16 AUG 29 SEP 10 OCT 24
MAR 30 MAY 13 MAY 25 JUL 8 JUL 20 SEP 2 SEP14 OCT 28
Uyuni • • Bonito
APR 2 MAY 16 MAY 28 JUL 11 JUL 23 SEP 5 SEP 17 OCT 31
APR 6 MAY 20 JUN 1 JUL 15 JUL 27 SEP 9 SEP 21 NOV 4 Salt Lakes •
Ilha Grande / Paraty • • Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation: Hotels (34 nts), night buses (3 nts), train (1nt), camping (3 nts), Iguassu Falls •
homestay (1 nt), multi-share tented room with hammocks (2 nts) Transport: Public
bus, local flight, ferry, train, boat, hiking, 4WD truck Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10
Group Leader: Tour leader throughout (except on the Inca Trail), local guides
Meals: All meals on the Inca Trail, during homestay, visiting Uyuni Salt Flats and in
the Pantanal Budget: Allow USD600 for meals not included Tour Code: GASXMR
Bolivia
crossing
26 DAYS, $3,899 fr
From Buenos Aires to Lima you’ll be enthralled Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires
every step of the way. Covering amazing terrain, Where to begin? This vibrant metropolis of
travelling by boat, bus and plane, this tour is never-ending European influences could fill your
guaranteed to blow your mind. Prepare to be days forever with its great bars and restaurants
inspired by truly exceptional landscapes and alone. Head to the colourful neighbourhoods of
some serious southern soul, warmly radiating La Boca and San Telmo (great for the Sunday
from each corner you turn. Start those toes- markets) and pop your head into the huge Day 9: Potosí
a-tapping in the tanguerias of Buenos Aires, french-style cemetry in high-class Recoleta. Join A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a tumultous
a cosmopolite’s dream. Take in the expansive in at one of the tanguerias, even learn to dance history as a silver mining centre during colonial
vast green Pampas and cross the border into with a lesson or two. And don’t forget the Bife times. Be daring and decide to descend into a
beautiful Bolivia - before you set off on an de Chorizo – Argentinean steak at its absolute modern-day working mine for a close up look at
epic adventure over the Atacama desert and best. Mmm. methods that have hardly changed in decades, if
the Salar de Uyuni salt flats. Sail away on the not centuries. Explosive stuff!
highest navigable lake in the world, boggle at Days 2-3: Salta
brightly coloured natural lagoons and cave-in From B.A, fly up to Salta in northern Argentina Day 10: Night Bus to la paz
over moon-like territory. Trek the trail of worldy for some impressive scenery that’ll sufficiently Staying in the Bolivian highlands, travel north to
wonder and arrive into Peru’s magnificent whet your appetite for even better things to the city of La Paz. Time to snuggle up kids.
Machu Picchu, amidst the breathtaking Andean come. Banish your fear of heights on a trip
mountains. Finish up in Lima for a last long- across the mountains following the ‘Train of the Days 11-12: La paz
awaited Pisco Sour. Clouds’ route. Once you get back into town tuck Have a wander round the world’s highest capital
your hungry chops into a couple of Empanadas - get lost in the vast array of shops and markets
Salteñas – a tasty speciality. Sit back, relax and and if you’re not afraid of being cast under a bad
enjoy a guitar filled evening at a “Peña” folklore spell venture into the Witches’ market - where
highlights show with a good glass of local Argie vino. you can pick up some really wacky, weird and
• Tango in Buenos Aires wonderful stuff. The liveliness and bustle of
• Take up the Argentinean appetite Days 4-5: San Pedro de Atacama more than a million Bolivians makes this city
• Walk on moon-like terrain Take a bus a little further north this morning, pretty unforgettable, as does the altitude!
• Marvel at fantastic coloured lagoons pogo-sticking over the Chilean border to the
• Stand awe-struck on the Salar de Uyuni small desert oasis of San Pedro de Atacama. It’s Day 13: La paz / tiahuanaco
• Crack hilarious jokes on Fish Island located on the edge of one of the driest places Go westward hitting Lake Titicaca and wind your
• Sail the world’s highest navigable lake in the world - perfect for trying out your best way along the shores to Tiahuanaco where you’ll
• Stay with Peruvian padres jokes on your new found friends. They’ll love it... spend most of the day visiting some fantastic
• Float on magical islands maybe. Opt for action packed activites - biking, ruins - bringing ancient mysteries to life. The
• Discover hidden ancient ruins horse-riding, and moonboots. You can also head remarkable Tiahuanaco people constructed this
• Catch sunrise over Machu Picchu out to the Valley of the Moon. great ceremonial centre on the southern shore of
• Get colonial in Cuzco Lake Titicaca over1000 years ago.Clever eh?
• Go potty for Pisco Sours Days 6-8: 4wd Atacama Desert / Uyuni
• Live it up in Lima Embark on an journey of epic proportions (ok Day 14: PUNO
so you’re not quite the next Indiana Jones, but Pull into Puno by bus, travelling through the
you’ll soon be pretty close). Get comfy in your Altiplano region of Peru, 3830m above sea level.
4WD jeep as you drive through some of the Arrive and explore. Time to write your granny a
most isolated and dramatic geography in South postcard and knit an alpaca jumper.
America and the impressive Salar de Uyuni salt
flats. A perfect opportunity for photo taking
fiends - you won’t believe the contrast of
blinding white salt flats, piercing blue skies, and
brightly coloured lagoons. Silly poses essential.
Brilliant. (2B, 2L, 2D)
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19
SOUTH AMERICA
EXPLORE
Days 15-16: Lake titicaca / taquile Day 19: ollantaytambo
Embark on a boat trip to visit the floating Head into the Sacred Valley, stopping in the town
islands of Uros. Visit Amantani and Taquile of Pisac, and then onto pretty Ollantaytambo
islands and immerse yourself in Peruvian rural where you’ll be greeted with some impressive
life with a homestay in a small local village. Try Inca ruins. Spectacular sunsets are frequent
out your local lingo skills and boogie into the against the the looming Andes backdrop. Settle
night with a traditional dance. The costumes in for the night at a local restaurant with, if
are a real winner. Great potential for fun times you’re lucky, pan-pipe players a plenty. More Day 24: Cuzco
and hopefully an awesome sunset or two. Don’t Pisco Sours for those less fortunate. Relax, take it easy. Buy another alpaca hat or
forget your torch. (B, L, D) get active with some white-water rafting or
Days 20-23: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu mountain biking. A free day for fun times and
Days 17-18: Cuzco Km 82 marks your once in a lifetime journey maybe a bit of washing - come on, it's been 24
A full day’s bus trip to Cuzco, it's time for happy launch pad. Over the next few days you’ll cover days now. We can smell you from here!
snappers to get out their cameras. Dump your spectacular scenery, learn brilliant facts-of-the-
clobber at the hotel and set off for a wander day and bring the Incas to life. You’ll be 100% Day 25: lima
about town - markets, cobbles and churches mesmerised not only by the views but by your A quick flight returns you to the coast and Peru’s
galore. Stop for one of your favourite cups of a team of local porters who’ll race ahead, ready to capital, Lima. Celebrate your final evening with
coca tea to help that acclimatisation at a café greet you later with a cup of coca tea and full-on one last Pisco Sour.
overlooking the main square. Nights can get three course meal as you trudge your weary feet
pretty chilly here so use the bus ride to hatch a into camp. Arrive astounded into Machu Picchu Day 26: depart lima
cosy plan with fellow groupies. from Intipunku, the ‘Sun Gate’ at sunrise on your Say adios amigos and put the blueprints in place
last day before heading back to Cuzco by train to for your next trip together.
celebrate. (3B, 3L, 3D)
DEPARTURES
peru
Do it your way
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 APR 19 MAY 14 SEP 13 OCT 08 2011
JAN 04 JAN 29 MAY 31 JUN 25 OCT 04 OCT 29 JAN 17 FEB 11
• Lima
JAN 25 FEB 19 JUN 21 JUL 16 NOV 15 DEC 10 FEB 07 MAR 04 Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo
FEB 15 MAR 12 JUL 12 AUG 06 DEC 06 DEC 31 FEB 28 MAR 25
• Cuzco
MAR 15 APR 09 AUG 02 AUG 27 DEC 27 JAN 21 MAR 21 APR 15
• Puno bolivia
go in reverse
MAR 29 APR 23 AUG 23 SEP 19 La Paz •
Potosí •
LIMA - BUENOS AIRES
Accommodation: Hotels (18 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt), night bus (1 nt), Uyuni • fr $3,899 Tour Code: GASXMB
very basic hostels (multi-share) (2 nts). Transport: Public bus, local flight, train, Salt Lakes • paraguay
boat, hiking, 4WD truck. Group Size: Max 16 , Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader San Pedro de Atacama •
throughout (except on the Inca Trail), local guides. Meals: All meals while hiking
the Inca Trail, during homestay & while crossing the Atacama desert Budget: Allow chile
• Salta Start or finish in LA PAZ
USD370 for meals not included Tour Code: GASXBM BUENOS AIRES - La paz
argentina
12 days fr $1,889 Tour Code: GASXBL
stay longer in lima
Check out pages 52-53. • Buenos Aires La Paz - buenos aires
12 days fr $1,889 Tour Code: GASXLB
stay longer in buenos aires
Check out pages 90-91.
20
southern
divide
22 DAYS, $3,309 fr
lima - santiago
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21
SOUTH AMERICA
EXPLORE
Day 14: Potosí DayS 16-17: Salar de Uyuni Excursion
Explosive Potosí is home to silver mines. Roll up Cosy into your 4WD and travel through unique
your sleeves and head down underground on an lakes, geysers, mud pools and thermal baths.
optional mine visit where you’ll see modern-day Gaffa tape proves particularly useful for taping
techniques that have barely changed in over a up your gob-smacked expressions (all that
century. Intruiging to the max. oohing, ahhing and smiling can get quite tiring).
When covered with water the Salar de Uyuni
Day 15: uyuni reflects the sky, creating truly spectacular photo
Venture down towards Uyuni - in the very opportunities. Sense of perspective is strangely
south of Bolivia's expansive landscape. Arrive distorted and you can pick up some equally
into this small town that clings to the edge wonderful salt-themed souvenirs. An experience
of immense salt flats (the world’s biggest and like no other. (2B, 2L, 2D)
once a giant prehistoric lake) and serves as a DayS 20-21: Santiago
well-located spring board to jump off into some DayS 18-19: San Pedro de Atacama Fly from Calama to Santiago – Chile’s capital
phenomenal scenery. Visit the abandonded trains Descend almost 3000 metres to the Chilean and one of Latin America’s most modern,
from yesteryear at the Train Cemetery before border and the tiny town of San Pedro de metropolitan areas - spectacularly surrounded
picking up props from the market and gaining Atacama. Visit the Atacama Desert, one of the by snowcapped Andes. Head out of town to a
photographic inspiration at one of the town’s driest places on earth. Its interesting terrain winery, take a look around the museums or go
traveller-friendly bars. is rugged and brilliant which comes as a stark for dinner in the trendy area of Bellavista.
contrast to the salt flats. Enjoy a tour of the
remote Valley of the Moon - astronaut suits and Day 22: depart Santiago
Buzz Aldrin impressions compulsory! Say goodbye to your mates, then make like a
donkey. Time to hit the road.
DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH peru
2010 MAY 08 MAY 29 SEP 25 OCT 16 2011
JAN 16 FEB 06 JUN 12 JUL 03 OCT 16 NOV 06 JAN 08 JAN 29
• Lima
FEB 06 FEB 27 JUL 03 JUL 24 NOV 06 NOV 27 JAN 29 FEB 19 Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo
FEB 20 MAR 13 JUL 24 AUG 14 NOV 27 DEC 18 FEB 19 MAR 12
• Cuzco
• Puno bolivia
MAR 20 APR 10 AUG 14 SEP 04 DEC 18 JAN 08 MAR 12 APR 02
APR 17 MAY 08 SEP 04 SEP 25 La Paz • • Sucre
Potosí •
Accommodation: Hotels/guest houses (21 nts) (may be multi-share) Uyuni •
Transport: Local flights, train, boat, bus, 4WD vehicles, hiking Group Size: Max Salt Lakes •
15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guides Meals Included: San Pedro de Atacama •
All meals on the Salar de Uyuni excursion Budget: Allow USD400 for meals not Calama •
included Tour Code: GASMS chile
southern
american
overland
47 DAYS, $5,079 fr
With beat-bopping Brazil, bargainous Bolivia Days 2-6: Paraty / Curitiba Day 15: Corumbá
and perfect Peru we’ve coupled together some Cruise down the coastal road to Paraty – a A bit of well-earned rest and relaxation in the
of the absolute to-die-for sights that this colonial gem nestled in the foothills of lush agricultural region of Mato Grosso do Sul. Time
cracking continent has to offer. We’ve also green mountains with a distinct tropical feel. As to write your bestie a postcard and bid Brazil a
enlisted some of the best talent around to a designated UNESCO World Heritage site it’s fond farewell. (B)
share your epic moments - silly poses a plenty great to just wander around but you can also
and a whole lot of good clean fun. Kick off with boat out into the bay for a peruse of Paraty’s Days 16-17: Chochís
a great night out in Rio that’ll be the spring glorious beaches and islands - yeah, it’s a hard Camp overnight near to the small time town of
board for hilarious and outrageous adventure life sometimes. On to Curitiba, a University San José de Chiquitos. On the way up to Santa
tales. It's gonna' be thrills every step of the way town with a coffee addiction and real sense of Cruz this is a popular travel stop better known
as you take in some of the most spectacular vibrancy. It’s also a thoroughfare for Gauchos for its Jesuit Mission and its status as gateway
scenery you’ll probably ever feast your eyes (cowboys) and their cattle. Yee-hah! (5B, 3L, 3D) to the National Parks. (2B, L, 2D)
on. Prepare for canyons deeper than the Grand
Canyon, Lake Titicaca - the world’s highest Days 7-9: Iguassu Falls Days 18-19: Santa Cruz
navigable water mass, Machu Picchu - one Soak up the spray of some of the world’s most Buen día Bolivia! New country, new culture. Head
of the seven Wonders of the World, the Inca spectacular waterfalls hopping between the out and explore the second country's biggest
Trail - hike of a lifetime, Salar de Uyuni salt Brazilian and Argentinean borders. Watch each city, taking in the chance to down some budget-
flats, not to mention the awesome Andes and others' jaws drop as you absorb the sheer power friendly Bolivian beers. (2B)
the attention grabbing wildlife. All this will be of Mother Nature – vast torrents of water
explored and enjoyed in an all-singing, all- bolting into the canyon below. Hop on a boat Days 20-22: Sucre
dancing, all-purpose overland truck. Expect a ride under the spray if you dare! (3B, 3L, 3D) Get out your history hats and wander round this
real hands-on adventure! important political post. Meet fellow travellers
Days 10-11: Bonito from years gone by in the shape of some death-
As pretty as its name suggests, this town is defying (or not as the case may be) dinosaur
firmly on the map of an outdoor activist’s route tracks. Interesante. (3B)
Highlights to heaven. Cosy up in camp for a couple of
• Ramble round Rio de Janeiro nights and head out into the wilderness. Snorkel Day 23: Potosí
• Party in Paraty tropical style and raft down river, swim in beautiful crystal- Arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage site of
• Ignite your imagination at Iguassu clear lagoons, spot spectacularly colourful fish Potosí, the highest city of its size in the world
• Witness wacky wildlife on the Wetlands and spy out some amazing macaws (parrots to and a silver mining centre during colonial times.
• Bop your way around Bolivia you and me). (2B, 2L, 2D) Daredevils descend! Drop down into the working
• Go camera crazy on the Salar de Uyuni mines for an eye-opening optional extravaganza,
• Hunt out the Witches’ Market in La Paz Days 12-14: Pantanal showing off methods barely changed in years. (B)
• Stay with a Peruvian family Wildlife wackos unite! Little-known outside of
• Sail the world’s highest navigable lake South America, this epic wetland region is one Days 24-27: Uyuni / Salt flats
• Cruise the Colca Canyon of the continent’s best places for spotting life The moment you’ve been waiting for. Spectacular
• Hike the epic Inca Trail that’s as wicked as it is wild. Special guests scenery and more sensational sights - you’re jaw
• Get colonial in Cuzco may include: cabybaras (giant guinea pigs), will be sick of dropping! Head out in a 4WD over
• Go potty for Pisco Sours Howler monkeys, caimans, Giant River otters, the outrageously impressive Salar de Uyini salt
• Live it up in Lima anacondas, anteaters and Great Jabiru storks. flats, moon-like terrain of the Atacama Desert
Ingenious impressionists will have a field day. (astronaut suits optional; funny impersonations
Day 1: Arrive Rio de Janeiro (3B, 2L, 2D) compulsory), and fantastic coloured lagoons.
Roll into Rio and rock out raving on your first Perfect for posers and keen photographers. (4B,
night of freedom, fun and frolics. Bond with your 3L, 2D)
new buddies and samba your way around the city
in a splurge of superb sightseeing.
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23
SOUTH AMERICA
EXPLORE
Do it your way
go in reverse
LIMA - RIO DE JANEIRO
fr $5,079 Tour Code: GASLMR
OTHER OPTIONS
QUITO - RIO DE JANEIRO or vice versa
60 days fr $6,489 Tour Code: GASLQR & GASLRQ
Days 28-29: La Paz Days 33-39: Cuzco / Inca Trail Day 43: Puerto Inca
Get out and about in this busy, bustling city. Crawl into captivating colonial-come-Inca- This beautiful sea shore location is home to
Hopscotch over cobblestone streets and take it inspired Cuzco. Top up your coca tea levels great sunsets, a small but rare coastal Inca
slow - the altitude hogs the limelight and really and explore the markets, or get out and about archeological site and some fab fauna. (B, L, D)
shows itself off. There's plenty of marvellous mountain biking, horse-riding or river rafting.
markets to keep your eyes transfixed. Buy those Meander down the Sacred Valley before Days 44-45: Nazca / Huacachina
all-important alpaca accessories and boggle at embarking on the once-in-a-lifetime, tell the A weird and wonderful collection of unexplained
the Bolivian’s bizarre bits and bobs. Beware of grandkids, phenomenal Inca Trail. You’ll be well lines etched into the ground causes the Nazca
the witches’ market – or you might come back looked after with your own guides and powered Lines to remain one of the world’s greatest
with more than you bargained for. Dried llama porters zooming up to camp to pitch your archaeological mysteries. There are a number of
foetus anyone?! Nice. (2B) tents - legends, just like the Incas themselves. theories as to why they exist - but who knows,
Cross over Dead Woman’s Pass on Day two of maybe some giant child from aeons ago just
Days 30-32: Lluquina / Puno the trail at a whopping 4000m above sea level decided to get creative one day. It’s an afternoon
Welcome to Peru! Let the perky Punonians show and arrive exhilarated at the Sun Gate to watch of fun starting off in a teeny tiny (optional)
you a thing or two. Prepare for creative crafts sunrise over Machu Picchu on Day four. An plane, and then on to Huacachina for some
from riverbed reeds, men that know how to experience like no other, head back to Cuzco for super-fun sandboarding. Huzzah! (B, 2L, 2D)
knit, and an interesting system of dating with celebrations and sleep. (3B, 4L, 3D)
a difference - men and women wear different Day 46: Lima
colours according to their marital status - crafty Day 40: Colca Canyon Leap around Lima, catch the colonial centre’s
or just plain cruel?! Step on board a boat for Heads up. Andean Condors with wingspans that changing of the guard and cracking cathedral
spectacular views over Lake Titicaca, the highest reach 10ft prey over this vast canyon. Beautiful catacombs, then scoff some grub in Miraflores.
navigable lake in the world. Stay overnight with and arid; it’s deeper than its USA rival. Try Ceviche - a lime marinated seafood dish and
your very own adopted parents - just don’t get emotional over a last Pisco Sour or three.
tell your Mum, she’ll think you're never coming Days 41-42: Arequipa
home…but then she might be on to something - Spot El Misti volcano creeping over the skyline Day 47: Depart Lima
they’re pretty chilled out people here. (B, 3L, 2D) and kick back with a cerveza as the stars come Wow, what a cracker. Get planning which
out for the night. (B, L) continent you want to conquer next!
DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 FEB 26 APR 15 SEP 04 OCT 22 2011
JAN 23 MAR 12 JUL 03 AUG 20 NOV 07 DEC 25 JAN 09 FEB 26
peru
Accommodation: Simple hotels (30 nts), camping (20 nts), basic multi-share or • Lima
hammocks (5 nts), amazon jungle lodge (2 nts), homestay (2 nts) Transport: Overland Machu Picchu •
truck, train, boat, hiking Group Size: Max 20, Avg 16 Group Leader: Tour leader and Pisco •
driver throughout, local guide Meals: All meals as indicated throughout itinerary • Nazca • Cuzco
brazil
Budget: Allow USD700 for meals not included Tour Code: GASLRM Puerto Inca • Puno • • Amantani / Taquile Islands
Colca Canyon • bolivia
Arequipa • La Paz •
stay longer in rio • Santa Cruz
• Sucre Corumba •
Check out pages 84-85. Potosí • • Pantanal
Uyuni • • Bonito
STAY LONGER IN LIMA Salt Lakes •
Check out pages 52-53. Paraty • • Rio de Janeiro
Iguassu Falls • Curitiba •
24
peru, bolivia,
Ecuador & Colombia
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
25
top 6
inca
heartland
& amazon
21 DAYS, $3,189 fr
Lima - LA paz
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
27
highlands
Lima - LA paz
DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
peru
2010 APR 17 MAY 01 AUG 21 SEP 04 DEC 25 JAN 08
JAN 02 JAN 16 MAY 08 MAY 22 SEP 11 SEP 25 2011
JAN 23 FEB 06 MAY 29 JUN 12 OCT 02 OCT 16 JAN 15 JAN 29
FEB 13 FEB 27 JUN 19 JUL 03 OCT 23 NOV 16 FEB 05 FEB 19 • Lima Amazon Jungle •
MAR 06 MAR 20 JUL 10 JUL 24 NOV 13 NOV 27 FEB 26 MAR 12
MAR 27 APR 04 JUL 31 AUG 14 DEC 04 DEC 18 MAR 19 APR 02 Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo
• Cuzco
Accommodation: Hotels (9 nts), camping (3 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts) Transport:
Public bus, local flight, train, boat, canoe Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 • Puno
bolivia
Group Leader: Tour leader throughout (except on the Inca Trail), local guides
Meals: All meals while in the jungle and on the Inca Trail Budget: Allow USD200 for La Paz •
meals not included Tour Code: GAPHML
Go in reverse
La Paz - Lima fr $2,579 Tour Code: GABHLM
andean
discovery
21 DAYS, $2,189 fr
Lima - La Paz
the light coloured volcanic rock that it’s built on. Accommodation: Simple hotels (15 nts), buses (1 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (1
Arequipa •
• La Paz
Marvel at El Misti volcano before setting off to nt) Transport: Public bus, train, local flight, hiking Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10
Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guides Meals: All meals while hiking
the Colca Canyon the next day. Stay overnight in the Inca Trail and homestay Budget: Allow USD300 for meals not included
Tour Code: GAJML
Chivay and see how many llamas you can count
along the way. Look out for awesome Andean GO IN REVERSE
Condors floating through the canyon - amazing! La Paz to Lima fr $2,189 Tour Code: GAJLM
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29
inca empire
Lima - LA paz
DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 MAY 08 MAY 22 OCT 02 OCT 16 2011
JAN 02 JAN 16 MAY 29 JUN 12 OCT 23 NOV 06 JAN 15 JAN 29
JAN 23 FEB 06 JUN 19 JUL 03 NOV 13 NOV 27 FEB 05 FEB 19
FEB 13 FEB 27 JUL 10 JUL 24 NOV 27 DEC 11 FEB 26 MAR 12
MAR 06 MAR 20 JUL 31 AUG 14 DEC 04 DEC 18 MAR 19 APR 02
MAR 27 APR 10 AUG 21 SEP 04 DEC 25 JAN 08 peru
APR 17 MAY 01 SEP 11 SEP 25
• Lima
Accommodation: Hotels (10 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt) Transport: Public
bus, local flight, train, boat, ferry, hiking Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo
Group Leader: Tour leader throughout (except on the Inca Trail), local guides • Cuzco
Meals: All meals while hiking the Inca Trail and during homestay • Puno
Budget: Allow USD220 for meals not included Tour Code: GAPIML bolivia
• La Paz
go In reverse
La Paz - Lima fr $2,009 Tour Code: GABILM
andean
empire
36 DAYS, $3,369 fr
La Paz - Quito
Five fantastic weeks, the potential for an Day 1: arrive La Paz Days 13-17: Arequipa / Colca Canyon
infinite number of epic adventures and not a Arrive into La Paz at any time. Chillax to the max Travel through the desert-like terrain playing "I
moment wasted. Hop, skip and jump your way as you acclimatise and ponder over whether a spy with my little eye, something beginning with
to enlightened South American bliss and unravel welcome beverage combined with altitude will V..icuña" - Larry the llama’s distant cousin. Arrive
the inner Andean spirit that is so intrinsic to hinder rather than help your quest to become into Chivay for a hot soak in the thermal baths
the people that live here. From boggling Bolivian more of a breath-taking Bolivian babe. Take an and a jolly bit of Peruvian music. Acclimatise
landscapes through magnificent Peru on a trail optional trip to Tiahuanaco ruins or the Valley of and take a short hike around one of the deepest
of Inca embellishment you’ll find your way up to the Moon. canyons in the world. Look out for the amazing
quirky Quito and equator-straddling Amazonic soaring condors whose wingspans reach up to
Ecuador. The Andes form the world’s longest Days 2-4: Puno 10ft. Not the best time to wear your dead cattle
exposed mountain range, and the highest Travel through the Altiplano and pull into Puno. or deer costume then…erm, no. Nightbus it to
mountain range outside of Asia, so be prepared Embark on a float-your-boat type trip to Uros, Nazca on Day 17.
for getting high and mighty as you top heights Amantani and Taquile islands. Immerse yourself
of up to 4000m on the Inca Trail alone. Views in Peruvian rural life with a small local village Days 18-19: Nazca / Pisco
are quite literally breath-taking with the added homestay. Great potential for fun times a plenty Nazca is home to some rather bizarre but
altitude that’ll set even the fittest (granted, and hopefully an awesome sunset or two. fascinating lines or geoglyphs drawn in to
you’re all beautiful, but we mean physically fit) Deliberately forget your torch for added hilarity. the desert on vast scales. Some resemble
huffing and puffing. Nothing a good cup of coca animals – ranging amongst other things from
tea won’t sort out though. Phew. Get tropical Days 5-12: Cuzco / Ollantaytambo / hummingbirds, spiders, monkeys and fish - time
in the jungle and be prepared for some serious Inca Trail to turn on that creative brain! Fertility symbols,
jaw-dropping, camera lens-smashing, rip- Head up, over and out on 'Operation Andean giant astronomical calendars and spaceship
roaring landscape as you scuttle up, over and Alpaca' through dramatic landscapes and into landing areas are just some of the varied
around the dizzy heights. Let’s face it, if you’re Cuzco - the capital of the Inca Empire. Check explanations for their existence. Hop on the
not living on the edge you’re taking up waaay out the markets, poke your nose into the optional flight to see what you think and then
too much room. Hop to it hombre! museums and grab dinner a la roast guinea pig unwind with a perfectly Peruvian Pisco Sour
(yes really) before you reach the tongue twister in Pisco. Head out to the Ballestas Islands the
town of Ollantaytambo and leap off into the next day for an optional tour to see some crazy
Highlights sunset on your first day of the Inca Trail. Chortle wildlife, then settle in for the night on a bus as
• People-watch in La Paz with your fellow campers on a trek to rival all you make your way up the coast to Lima.
• Take to the water on Lake Titicaca others – hiking magnificent mountains, crossing
• Stay with a Peruvian family Dead Woman’s Pass on Day two, skipping (well, Days 20-22: Lima
• Float on majestic Uros Islands perhaps not quite) along the trail and taking Lap up Lima’s Limeño (the name given to locals
• Hike the unforgettable Inca Trail in Inca ruins as you go. Make sure you charge from Lima) lifestyle, chic café culture and nutty
• Marvel at magnificent Machu Picchu your camera batteries for the last day and an nightlife. Check out the changing of the guards
• Explore the depths of the Colca Canyon epic (fingers crossed) sunrise to end all sunrises and the cathedral's corking catacombs. Dine like
• Fly over the Nazca lines over the enchanting and mystical Machu Picchu. royalty in a metropolis otherwise known as the
• Go potty for Pisco Sours Watch the morning mists subside - you've 'City of Kings' - try ceviche - a yummy citrus
• Eat seafood and ceviche in Lima made it! Head back to Cuzco for some deserved marinated seafood dish. Paraglide over the coast
• Catch some rays on Peru’s Pacific coast revellry and head out river rafting, canoeing, and get mushy under the huge snogging statue
• Cruise colonial Cuenca horse-riding or other adrenaline-packed in the Parque del Amor (Love Park) – not for the
• Amble around the Amazon activities. Think you can handle it? (3B, 3L, 3D) faint hearted…no pun intended!
• Kick back in quirky Quito
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31
DEPARTURES
Do it your way
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Quito • • Amazon
2010 MAY 12 JUN 16 OCT 04 NOV 08 2011 • Baños
JAN 11 FEB 15 JUN 06 JUL 11 OCT 18 NOV 22 JAN 09 FEB 13
JAN 28 MAR 04 JUN 13 JUL 18 NOV 01 DEC 06 JAN 20 FEB 24 • Cuenca
FEB 08 MAR 15 JUN 22 JUL 27 NOV 14 DEC 19 JAN 28 MAR 04
FEB 25 APR 01 JUL 20 AUG 24 NOV 25 DEC 30 FEB 07 MAR 14
• Tumbes
go in reverse
MAR 15 APR 19 AUG 03 SEP 07 DEC 12 JAN 16 FEB 26 APR 02
APR 05 MAY 10 AUG 10 SEP 14 DEC 26 JAN 30 MAR 12 APR 16
QUITO - LA PAZ
peru
APR 20 MAY 25 AUG 28 OCT 02 MAR 26 APR 30 • Mancora fr $3,369 Tour Code: GAJQL
Accommodation: Simple hotels (25 nts), buses (3 nts), camping (3 nts), jungle lodge
(3 nts), homestay (1 nt) Note: Accommodation can be quite basic/multi-share at start or finish in lima
times Transport: Public bus, train, local flight, hiking Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10
Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guides Meals: All meals while at the
lima - quito
jungle lodge, hiking the Inca Trail and homestay Budget: Allow USD650 for meals • Trujillo 16 days fr $3,369 Tour Code: GAJMQ
not included Tour Code: GAJLQ
altiplano
& amazon
31 DAYS, $4,329 fr
lima - La Paz
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33
DEPARTURES
Do it your way
2010
JAN - DEC TUE, FRI
2011
JAN - MAR FRI
peru
Accommodation: Hotels (may be multi-share) (22 nts), night buses (2 nts), homestay • Lima • Amazon go in reverse
(1 nt), camping (3 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts) Transport: Local flights, 4WD vehicles,
hiking, public bus, train, boat Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo LA PAZ - LIMA fr $4,329
Tour Code: GASJLM
day 1-30, local rep in La Paz (except in the jungle), local guides Meals: All meals Pisco • • Cuzco
while on the Uyuni Salt Flats excursion, on the Inca Trail, in jungle, and during • Nazca
Puno • bolivia
homestay Budget: Allow USD360 for meals not included Tour Code: GASJML
Colca Canyon • cut out the jungle
• La Paz
STAY LONGER IN LIMA Arequipa • Relax in cuzco on days 14-15
Check out pages 52-53. fr $3,509 Tour Code: GASXML
• Sucre
STAY LONGER IN LA PAZ Potosí •
Check out page 60. Uyuni •
Salt Lakes •
34
Iquitos / Amazon •
Tarapoto •
peru
peru
My favourite The Weather
The best time to visit is between
Useful Info
Spanish is the first language of
experience
"Nothing stopped me in my tracks more than the incredible beauty and
April and September when the
sunshine hours last longer and the
rain stays away. Temperatures drop
83.9% of Peruvians age 5 and
older. Several other indigenous
languages coexist, the most
tranquillity of the floating Uros Islands. I couldn’t believe it. The stillest, overnight during these months important which is Quechua,
most awe-inspiring island populated by locals who go about their daily however, particularly up around spoken by 13.2% of the population
lives surprisingly complete with internet and solar panels - yet without the Cuzco. You'll also be more than
horrible stress of city life. A floating oasis of perfect serenity in the middle aware of the altitude effects once Useless Info
of the biggest lake you’ve ever seen. Amazing!" Sophie you pass 3000m or 10000ft so The origin of the name Titicaca is
leave a day or so to acclimatise. unknown. It has been translated as
"Rock Puma", allegedly because of
Local Grub its resemblance to the shape of a
Weird and wonderful bites are puma hunting a rabbit, combining
everywhere. Be sure to try a couple words from the local languages
of the 4000 potato varieties that Quechua and Aymara. It is also
are grown here alone and tuck translated as "Crag of Lead."
into tasty roast Cuy - or Guinea
Pig as it's more commonly known. try before you fly
Savour delicious Ceviche - a citrus 'Eight feet in the Andes: Travels
marinated seafood dish - great with a Mule in Unknown Peru' by
for dipping tortilla chips into. And Dervla Murphy follows herself, her
don't forget about luscious llama 9yr old daughter and a mule who
steaks, cusqueña beer, Inca kola (it clamber the length of Peru. Their
tastes like bubblegum), unavoidable appreciation for scenery, people
coca tea and refreshing Pisco Sour and the sheer enjoyment of the
cocktails - made for great times. journey will inspire you.
35
A little like the vodka without the Swedish Day 5: arequipa Days 13-16: inca trail
parentage, Absolute Peru is just the ticket if Peru’s second largest colonial city. Surrounded Km 82 marks your once in a lifetime journey
you’re heading for absolute perfection when by Andean mountains and El Misti Volcano launch pad. Over the next few days you’ll cover
visiting this great country. Seize the chance completing a backdrop close to perfection. some spectacular scenery, learn some great
to trek the Inca Trail for one of those truly Beautiful at sunset. Culture vultures will enjoy facts-of-the-day and bring the Incas to life.
"unmissable", "must-do", "tell-the-grandkids" the brightly coloured Santa Catalina Monastery. You’ll be 100% mesmerised not only by the views
style of adventures. Meet some great like- but by your team of local porters, who’ll race on
minded, highly attractive (those walking boots Days 6-7: colca canyon one step ahead, ready to greet you later with a
are a winner), fellow camping buds on the Travel through the desert-like terrain playing "I cup of coca tea and full-on meal as you trudge
various exciting activities we have in store for spy with my little eye, something beginning with your weary feet into camp - legends. Arrive
you. Get involved in the local lifestyle at a family V..icuña" (a relative of the llama). Arrive into astounded into Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate
homestay, pet an alpaca, paraglide over Lima and Chivay for a hot soak in the thermal baths and at dawn on your last day before heading back to
sing your Baloo-bear heart out up in the jungle. a bit of jolly Peruvian music. Look out for the Cuzco to celebrate. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Overall an awesome trip, taking in the brightest amazing soaring Condors in one of the deepest
and best bits that Peru has to offer. In fact, canyons in the world. Day 17: cuzco
you’d be raving bonkers to miss out. So what are Rest, repose and relax. Oh yes.
you waiting for? Days 8-10: puno / lake titicaca
Hop on a bus to Puno, gateway to Lake Titicaca, Days 18-20: amazon jungle
• Trek the Inca Trail the highest navigable lake in the world. Visit Fly up up and away to Puerto Maldonado, deep
• Boggle over epic Andean views Uros, Amantani and Taquile Islands before into the lowlands of the Amazon Jungle. A
• Spot condors deep in the Colca Canyon settling in for the night with your new Peruvian motorised canoe will whisk you along the river
• Sail the world’s highest navigable lake family. Watch the starlit sky. (B, L, D) to the Tambopata Rainforest. It holds the world
• Watch wildlife on the Ballestas Islands record for the most bird sightings in one area.
• Stay with your very own Peruvian family Days: 11-12: cuzco Jolly around in the jungle with local guides then
• Get jungle fever in the amazin’ Amazon Chug up to Cuzco through the pretty Peruvian fly back to Lima. (2B, 2L, 2D)
• Float away on Uros Islands landscape. Visit the impressive churches, wander
• Try local Peruvian cuisine round the pretty cobbled streets and hit the Day 21: depart lima
• Soak away stress in hot thermal baths authentic market – just don’t go crazy now! Recover from your last night and say hooroo.
Accommodation: Hotels (4 nts), camping (3 nts) Transport: Local flight, train, van, • Lima • Amazon
hiking Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout (except on
Days 3-4: nazca the Inca Trail), local guides Meals: All meals while on the Inca Trail Budget: Allow Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo
USD100 for meals not included Tour Code: GAPHPT
Wildlife wackos will love boating out to the Pisco • • Cuzco
• Nazca
Ballestas Islands for a chance to check out CUT OUT THE HIKE Puno •
Colca Canyon •
sea lions, penguins and bird-life galore. Then 'Highlights of Peru'
21 days fr $2,889 Tour Code: GAPHP Arequipa •
get your fun-hat on for an optional bit of
sandboarding on the Huacachina sand dunes.
stay longer in lima
Zoom up into the sky on a plane over the Check out pages 52-53.
mysterious Nazca lines (optional). You’ll also visit
a fascinating Pre-Inca cemetery in the Nazca STAY LONGER iN cuzco
desert with 1500 year-old mummies, bones and Check out page 54.
pottery. Spooky!
36
trek peru
Peru is one of the best places in the world to
seek out some serious trekking experiences. We
lares trek
Get off the well worn trail and get trekking in
What you need to book..
• Full name (exactly as on your passport)
feature the awesome Inca Trail and three other some very remote areas. This three day option • Date of birth
outstanding ways to get out about in the Andes. takes you through the Sacred Valley with views • Passport number
of the snow-capped Cordillera - finishing with a • Nationality
inca trail spectacular train ride and tour of Machu Picchu. • Date of passport expiry
Like a long line of crumbs that lead hungry eyes • A smile and set of pearly whites
to the cookie jar, the Inca Trail is an epic once- choquequirao • A love of the great outdoors, hurrah!
in-a-lifetime adventure that culminates in the Follow the Apurimac Canyon and hike through
enchanting Lost City of the Incas: Machu Picchu. seldom-visited wilderness in the shadow of book early!
It’s a destination featuring on most "do before I awe-inspiring mountains. This challenging yet As a way to preserve the ancient trail
die" lists and it’s not difficult to see why. In its extremely rewarding five day pilgrimage takes and site of Machu Picchu, the Peruvian
42kms, it manages to combine jaw-dropping you to the Inca fortress of Choquequirao. government has strict regulations governing
mountain scenery, lush cloud forest, subtropical the flow of travellers, so its best to book
jungle, a stunning mix of Inca ruins, and some don't fancy the hike? take a train! early - we recommend at least three months
beautiful flora and fauna. You won’t rush to Sail through the stunning Sacred Valley on a in advance. Reservations cannot be held on
the finish line either. We let you take your time, comfortable train ride on your way to Aguas the trail and all permits must be bought as
inhale the awesome views and tread each step Calientes, gateway to Machu Picchu. far as possible in advance with complete and
with a reinforced appreciation of nature, the correct passport info. Modifications cannot
world and life. See page 38 for more details on these trips. be made.
Chancachaca
3,400m
Wacawasi
3,800m
Sondor
a
anch
4,220m
Wayruruyoc
Pata
Calientes • Pass
Rio
4,520m
mba Hatunwayqo
ruba
Bus to Rio U
Ruins Inti Punku Pumamarca
Sun Gate Chilca 3,450m
Marcacocha
Machu 2,700m KM82 3,400m
Picchu 2,600m
2,400m
yo
ma
2,850m
Winay Wayna
Rio
2,700m Rio
Uru
Inca Steps bam
ca
ba
a
tch
Cus
Phuyupatamarca
3,600m
Rio
Inca Tunnel
3,700m Pacamayo Llullchapampa
Runkurakay 3,600m
Sayacmarca 3,800m
3,600m Wayllabamba
Warmiwanusca 3,000m a
amb
Choquequirao Dead Woman’s Pass Urub
4,200m Rio
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37
lima - Cuzco
The Inca Trail is much more than a 42kms stroll Day 2: Cuzco Days 4-7: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
through the Andes. Get yourself ready for an Fly from Lima to Cuzco over the Andes and take Launch yourself off onto this once in a lifetime
astonishing four day trek through ancient ruins in the spectacular views. Acclimatise with a journey. Cover some spectacular scenery, learn
and mind blowing scenery. Prepare for many coca tea overlooking the beautiful colonial main brilliant facts-of-the-day and bring the Incas to
a spine tingling moment as you walk towards square. Head to the markets - pick up that sexy life. You’ll be 100% mesmerised not only by the
the revered Machu Picchu. Inspiration and life Peruvian jumper you've always wanted and as views but by your team of local porters who’ll
affirmation is around every corner and over many alpaca woolly hats as you have friends race on one step ahead, ready to greet you later
each hill. Cameras and journals are all well back home. Poke your noses into the museums with a cup of coca tea and full-on three course
and good, but these are the kind of indelible and churches and try some proper Peruvian meal as you trudge your weary feet into camp -
memories that will never leave you. You'll spend grub - guinea pig and one of the 4000 varieties legends. Arrive chin-on-the-ground into Machu
a day enjoying a guided tour of the Sacred of potato that are grown in and around the Picchu from the Sun Gate on your last day before
Valley, before you head to Ollantaytambo to Peruvian Andes. And if time permits, head out heading back to Cuzco by train. (3B, 3L 3D)
start your hike. All your food on the Inca Trail of town on a biking, horse-riding or river rafting
is taken care of and local porters will help make trip. Action packed. Day 8: Depart Cuzco
the trek hassle free. On the final day, climb Say your fond farewells and hit the road, Jack.
the steps to Intipinku to watch the sunrise Day 3: Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
over Machu Picchu and enjoy a guided tour, Get out with the team and explore the Sacred
before you head back to Cuzco inspired and Valley with a local guide. Uncover hidden
invigorated. mysteries at ancient Inca sites - whetting
your appetite suitably for the day ahead,
highlights journey along the Urubamba river amid the lush
• Live it up in Lima agricultural backdrop, potter around the Pisac
• Fly over the Andes market and wind up in pretty Ollantaytambo.
• Get colonial in Cuzco Spend the evening relaxing ahead of tomorrow's
• Trek the Inca Trail epic adventure.
• Discover ancient ruins
• Marvel at majestic Machu Picchu
• Try local Peruvian cuisine
• Get active: raft, hike, bike
DEPARTURES
Day 1: Arrive lima Departs Daily
Arrive into Lima at anytime. Explore the colonial Accommodation: Hotels (4 nts), camping (3 nts) Transport: Local flight, train, van,
centre and enjoy optional activities - why not hiking Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout (except on
the Inca Trail), local guides Meals: All meals while on the Inca Trail Budget: Allow
paraglide to infinity and beyond? USD100 for meals not included Tour Code: GAPID
peru
• Lima
Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo
• Cuzco
Delve into the heart of Peru's Inca world: colonial Cuzco and the Inca Trail Avoid the crowds and head off the beaten track! An excellent alternative
to Machu Picchu. Explore the museums, markets, restaurants and ruins of to the Inca Trail if it's all booked up or if you just fancy escaping the norm.
fascinating Cuzco before strapping on those sexy hiking boots to tackle the The challenging Lares trek still has all the well-worn features of the Inca
famous trail. A rite of passage for many visitors to Peru, the Inca Trail is Trail - incredible Andean vistas, clean mountain air, indigenous culture and
a challenging four day trek from the Sacred Valley floor, up through cloud ancient ruins; but follows a different route and lacks all the snap-happy
forest and jungle. Traverse high mountain passes and finish at the magical people. Sandwich it between the fascinating, colonial city of Cuzco and
'lost' city of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided tour of the site before heading magical Machu Picchu and you'll probably morph into an actual Inca. Pretty
back to Cuzco by train. A once in a lifetime adventure! GATSPIDN legendary really. GATSPILN
Do something different and avoid the crowds out on this active adventure Since it's probably the most famous of all pre-Columbian ruins, magnificent
that includes a five day trek to the lost Inca fortress of Choquequirao. Machu Picchu is pretty much on every traveller's lifetime must-see list.
Arrive into Lima for a bit of limeño-loving lifestyle (a limeño is a resident of So get up there and check it out. Start your adventure in colonial Cuzco,
Lima), munch on some top notch seafood (ceviche) and sip an all essential once the epicentre of the Inca Empire and spend a day exploring the super
Pisco Sour. Fly up to Cuzco to explore this stunning colonial capital, poking Spanish, itchingly-interesting wild aspects of the area. The next day hop
your nose into museums, churches and Inca sites, then roam free through on board a train and choo choo through the spectacular Urubamba Valley
the Sacred Valley making new furry friends along the way. Set out on foot to Machu Picchu, perched on a mountain ridge 600m above the river below.
following the Apurimac Canyon and hike through seldom-visited remote Hang out with a local guide for a detailed site exploration and some free
wilderness in the shadow of awe-inspiring snow-capped mountains. GAPIC time before heading back to Cuzco. GATSPMTN
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
39
• Charm the Cuzqueñan locals in colonial Cuzco • Get colonial in Cuzco and discover ancient ruins
• Unravel ancient mysteries in and around the Inca sites • See spectacular flora, fauna and wildlife
• Befriend alpacas, llamas and vicuñas • Trek the Inca Trail and absorb the amazing views
• Trek the Inca Trail and marvel at Machu Picchu • Marvel at majestic Machu Picchu over sunrise
• Drink coca tea overlooking city vistas • Soak in hot springs in Aguas Calientes
DEPARTURES DEPARTURES
Departs Daily 2010
JAN - DEC THU
Accommodation: Hotels (3 nts), camping (3 nts) Transport: 2011
Train, van, hiking Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Group Leader: JAN - MAR THU
Local representative in Cuzco, local guide on the Inca Trail peru
Meals: All meals while on the Inca Trail Budget: Allow Accommodation: Hotels (6 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts)
USD100 for meals not included Tour Code: GASPIT Transport: Local flights, train, motorized canoe
Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Group Leader: Local guide in
Cuzco and at Machu Picchu, local rep in Lima, local guide at
• Lima Amazon Jungle •
• Cuzco jungle lodge Meals: All meals while in the jungle
Budget: Allow USD100 for meals not inc. Tour Code: GAPIJ
Machu Picchu •
• Cuzco
add on the inca trail
'Amazon to Andes'
cut out the hiking 12 days, fr $2,479 Tour Code: GAPAA
'Taste of Peru'
10 days fr $2,249 Tour Code: GAPET
40
amazon to
the andes
12 DAYS, $2,479 fr
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
41
peru
peru on a
shoestring
15 DAYS, $1,539 fr
lima - cuzco
Panpipes, potatoes and pisco are not the only Days 4-6: arequipa Days 9-12: inca-trail to machu picchu
all-essential items on a budget friendly potter Arrive with the sunshine into Arequipa, a Climb ev'ry mountain, Ford ev'ry stream, Follow
around Peru. Add into the mix a jaunt up to beautifully white city that's surrounded by the ev'ry rainbow,'Till you find your dream... and at the
Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail and you'll Andes and set in the shadow of El Misti Volcano. risk of putting you off cheese sandwiches for life,
take home memories that won't ever escape Spread your wings like the Colca Canyon's dreams really will come alive on this epic once-
you. A perfect way to meet some playful pals, resident Andean condors and get out on a trip in-a-lifetime trek along one of the most revered
this little trip is palpable proof that you can that explores its dark deceptive depths; hop on trails in the world. With your duracell sponsored
'do Peru' in two weeks without zooming past a mountain bike for a wild ride to oblivion or raft bunnies/porters taking care of all the hard work,
it so quick that you miss out on all the magic down raucous rapids. your attentions can be focused on enjoying the
moments that come part and parcel along the ride, absorbing the atmosphere and inhaling the
way. Inhale the Andean air, acclimatise to the Day 7: cuzco insanity of the superb views with your fellow
altitude and set off on an unforgettable journey A city that'll impress you to the max with its companions. Pogo-stick over high passes, skip
that the Inca's themselves would be proud of. pretty combination of colonial and Inca-inspired along streams and arrive astounded at sunrise on
architecture that'll leave footprints on your soul. your last day to greet the ancient Inca world at
Check out the markets, artisan-style shops and the gateway to Machu Picchu. (3B, 3L, 3D)
highlights tuck into some local grub - try roast Guinea
• Live it up in Lima Pig or go crazy for one of Peru's 3000 potato Days 13-14: cuzco
• Check out the mysterious Nazca lines varieties. A chance to chill-out and party hard on into the
• Gaze at the condors of Colca Canyon aftermath of the Inca Trail. Book on to a biking
• Get Colonial in Cuzco Day 8: ollantaytambo bonanza, head out onto the Urubamba River for
• Trek the amazing Inca Trail Trace your fingers and toes along the Sacred some rapid rafting or hop off horse-riding for
• Camp out on mystical mountain passes Valley to the quaint tongue-twister town of more excellent adventures.
• Explore ancient ruins Ollantaytambo. On the way you'll befriend an
• Marvel at sunrise over Machu Picchu alpaca or two, explore some fascinating Inca Day 15: depart cuzco
empire ruins and wind up contented and relaxed It's time to say so long, farewell as you head off
Day 1: Arrive lima ready for your imminent Inca adventure. into the sunset. It's been emotional.
Roll up, check in, get out and explore. Wander
down town to catch the colonial-style changing
of the guard and check out the capitvating
DEPARTURES
catacombs at the cathedral. Stroll along the sea START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 MAY 22 JUN 05 SEP 18 OCT 02 2011
front or jump off a cliff on a tandem paraglide JAN 02 JAN 16 MAY 29 JUN 12 SEP 25 OCT 09 JAN 01 JAN 15
for an ariel view with a difference. Amazing! JAN 09
JAN 16
JAN 23
JAN 30
JUN 05
JUN 12
JUN 19
JUN 26
OCT 02
OCT 09
OCT 16
OCT 23
JAN 08
JAN 15
JAN 22
JAN 29
peru
JAN 23 FEB 06 JUN 19 JUL 03 OCT 16 OCT 30 JAN 22 FEB 05 • Lima
JAN 30 FEB 13 JUN 26 JUL 10 OCT 23 NOV 06 JAN 29 FEB 12
Days 2-3: nazca / night bus FEB 06 FEB 20 JUL 03 JUL 17 OCT 30 NOV 13 FEB 05 FEB 19 Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo
FEB 13 FEB 27 JUL 10 JUL 24 NOV 06 NOV 20 FEB 12 FEB 26
Cruise towards the coast for a sneaky peek • Nazca • Cuzco
FEB 20 MAR 06 JUL 17 JUL 31 NOV 13 NOV 27 FEB 19 MAR 05
FEB 27 MAR 13 JUL 24 AUG 07 NOV 20 DEC 04 FEB 26 MAR 12
at the mysterious Nazca lines - etched into APR 03 APR 17 JUL 31 AUG 14 NOV 27 DEC 11 MAR 05 MAR 19
the side of the landscape. Some resemble APR 10 APR 24 AUG 07 AUG 21 DEC 04 DEC 18 MAR 12 MAR 26 Arequipa •
APR 17 MAY 01 AUG 14 AUG 28 DEC 11 DEC 25 MAR 19 APR 02
APR 24 MAY 08 AUG 21 SEP 04 DEC 18 JAN 01 MAR 26 APR 09
animals – ranging from hummingbirds, spiders, MAY 01 MAY 15 AUG 28 SEP 11 DEC 25 JAN 08
monkeys and fish (time to turn those creative MAY 08 MAY 22 SEP 04 SEP 18
MAY 15 MAY 29 SEP 11 SEP 25
imaginations on). Fertility symbols, giant
Accommodation: Simple hotels (may be multi-share) (10 nts), night bus (1 nt),
astronomical calendars and spaceship landing camping (3 nts) Transport: Hiking, public bus, train Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10
Group Leader: Tour leader on days 1-9, local guides while on Inca Trail and local
areas are just some of the varied explanations representative on days 13-15 Meals: All meals while on the Inca Trail Budget: Allow
USD200 for meals not included Tour Code: GASPPS
for their existence. Why not hop on an optional
teeny tiny plane and see for yourself? just A LITTLE MORE COMFORT
'Inca Explorer' 15 days fr $2,639 Tour Code: GAPEI
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
43
lima - cuzco • Sail Lake Titicaca - the highest navigable lake in the world
• Float on the magical Uros islands and meet the locals
• Live it up in Lima and learn to love like a Limeño • Stay with a Peruvian family and take part in local life
• Amble in the Amazon and witness some wicked wildlife • Discover the Sacred Valley’s hidden gems
• Trek the incredible Inca Trail and gasp at the views • Trek the Inca Trail and arrive enchanted at Machu Picchu
• Discover mysterious Machu Picchu and other Inca ruins
• Cover colonial Cuzco and get out rafting, riding or biking Day 1: Arrive Lima
Rock up and explore. Check out chic Miraflores for paragliding and Pisco.
Day 1: arrive Lima
Arrive into Lima. Wander the city and live the Limeño life. Cocktail anyone? Days 2-4: Puno / Lake Titicaca
Become an Island Girl (or Boy) on a trip over the incredible blue waters of
Days 2-3: Amazon rainforest Lake Titicaca. Befriend locals as you settle in for a typical night with your
Hop on a plane to Puerto Maldonado. Whizz up the Tambopata River by new family and drift off to paradise on the floating Uros islands. (B, L, D)
motorised canoe to the rainforest lodge. Amble outdoors with your guide
exploring the rich wildlife, flora and fauna. Tarzan impressions optional. Day 5: Cuzco
Head to Cuzco through the Altiplano. Shuffle over well-worn cobblestone
Days 4-5: cuzco streets on a quest to seek out all that is good and Inca. Bargain hunters
Boat your way out of the jungle before taking to the skies on a local flight beware – there are more markets than you have heads to put hats on – all
to Cuzco. Settle in for the night with a cup of coca tea or for all you wild friends included! And copious cafés with views over the square and beyond.
thangs, a Pisco Sour - and wander round the city with your guide. Fact of
the day: Cuzco is the longest continually inhabited city on the continent. Day 6: Ollantaytambo
Poke your nose into more enchanting Inca ruins as you travel through the
Days 6-9: inca trail Sacred Valley and on to the tongue-twisting town of Ollantaytambo.
Embark on the once-in-a-lifetime, tell the grandkids one day, epic Inca
Trail. Cross Dead Woman’s Pass on Day two at a whopping 4000m Days 7-10: Inca Trail
above sea level and arrive exhilarated at the Sun Gate to watch sunrise Km 82 marks your once-in-a-lifetime journey launch pad. You’ll be 100%
over Machu Picchu on Day four. You’ll be well looked after by a team of mesmerised not only by the views but by your team of local porters who’ll
gregarious guides and powered porters, zooming on ahead of you to pitch race on, ready to greet you with sustinence as you trudge your weary feet
your tents at camp - legends like the Incas themselves. An experience like into camp – yay! Arrive astounded into Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate on
no other, head back to Cuzco for celebrations and sleep. (3B, 4L, 3D) your last day before choo chooing back to Cuzco. (3B, 3L, 3D)
DEPARTURES DEPARTURES
2010 2010
JAN - APR TUE, FRI JAN - APR MON, FRI
MAY - SEP TUE, FRI, SUN peru MAY - OCT MON, WED, FRI, SUN peru
OCT - DEC TUE, FRI NOV - DEC MON, FRI
2011
• Lima Amazon • 2011
• Lima
JAN - MAR TUE, FRI Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo JAN MON, FRI Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo
FEB MON
Accommodation: Comfort hotels (4 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), • Cuzco MAR MON, FRI • Cuzco
camping (3 nts) Transport: Private van, local flight, train, boat, Puno •
canoe Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader
Accommodation: Hotels/guest houses (7 nts), camping (3
throughout (except on the Inca Trail), local guides
nts), homestay (1 nt) Transport: Public buses, local flight,
Meals: Continental breakfast daily, all meals while in the
train, boat, hiking Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10
jungle and on the Inca Trail Budget: Allow USD200 for meals
Group Leader: Tour leader throughout (except on the Inca
not included Tour Code: GAPSM
Trail), local guides Meals: All meals on the Inca Trail and
during the homestay Budget: Allow USD170 for meals not
cut out the HIKing included Tour Code: GAPPC
'Taste of Peru'
stay longer in lima
10 days fr $2,249 Tour Code: GAPET
Check out page 52.
44
Quest of
the gods
14 DAYS, $3,009 fr
Now, we don’t want to get all deep and Days 4-5: cuzco Day 10: Cuzco
meaningful on you, but let's just say that if Head back out of the jungle by canoe before Chillax to the max with some Cuzco free time.
there is a God and he wanted to set up camp hopping on a plane to Cuzco, right up high in Do your Christmas shopping or check out
somewhere on this little planet of ours, he just the Andes. Wander round the city on Day five another ruin - Sexy Woman is always a bit
might choose Peru. Why? Simple. This fantastic - a cultural epicentre and home to some pretty of fun, if not for the name alone. Adrenaline
country has it all - mountains, beaches, epic awesome history. Imagine colonial vs. Inca and junkies can opt for other hair-raising activities
landscapes, lovely locals, earthy vibes, bright you’re bang on the money. (2B) like mountain biking, white water rafting or
colours and a heavenly atmosphere. Not to horseriding. Ah gowan, you know you want to.
mention angelic alpacas and priestly Pisco! That Days 6-9: inca trail
along with the fact that the whole darn place is At Km 82 it’s history in the making as you start Days 11-12: puno / lake titicaca
steeped in amazing Inca history makes it easy your once-in-a-lifetime trek along the Inca Pull into Puno and head out onto the lake. Meet
to see why it rolls into Numero Uno on many Trail. You’ll be accompanied by a saintly team the celestial islanders (the men on this island
people’s destination charts. And let's be honest, of porters and guides who’ll be one step ahead know how to knit - they must be seriously
those Incas had to be pretty godly themselves of you on their rocket powered feet. Camp with sacrosanct) and learn how to flirt Peruvian style.
to build those uber intelligent structures with stunning views of the Andes, get to know your Here, hat and skirt colours are used to clearly
all that heavy stone in the first place. You might trek team and bring your gaffa tape to help you indicate marital status. Who needs internet
want to take a leaf, or laurel out of their book keep your wide eyed disbelieving gawks to a dating when you can stand out in all your
then. And the best thing?! Not a toga in sight. minimum. On the final day you’ll complete the colourful glory as a spinster. Obvious at least.
final stages of the trail in the dark, arriving just Genius? Maybe not.
highlights in time for sunrise at Intipunku, the ‘Sun Gate’,
• Canoe up river in the Amazon Rainforest breathing life into the Machu Picchu world. Day 13: Lima
• Witness wacky jungle wildlife Pretty incredible. Uncover the Inca’s mysterious Lap it up in Lima. Tuck into seafood and ceviche,
• Hike the Inca Trail and camp in the Andes realm and learn all the who's, what's, where's, popular Peruvian potato and down a cold bevvie.
• Watch a sunrise over Machu Picchu how's and why's. Make like a tree and leave on
• Get active: trek, bike, horseride or raft a train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy before Day 14: Depart Lima
• Discover ancient civilizations chugging back to Cuzco. Fun times. (4B, 3L, 3D) It’s ciao for now, see ya later. Over and out.
• Laugh on Lake Titicaca with the locals
• Buy crazy South American clobber
DEPARTURES
Day 1: lima 2010
JAN - APR TUE, FRI peru
Arrive into Lima. Check out the changing of the MAY - SEP TUE, FRI, SUN
guards and the cathedral’s corking catacombs. OCT - DEC TUE, FRI
2011
JAN - MAR TUE, FRI • Lima • Amazon Jungle
Days 2-3: amazon Rainforest Accommodation: Comfort hotels (8 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), camping (3 nts) Machu Picchu • • Ollantaytambo
Transport: Private van, local flight, train, boat, canoe Group Size: Max 16, Avg • Cuzco
Me: Tarzan, you: Jane. Get jungle fever as you 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout (except on the Inca Trail), local guides
Meals: Continental breakfast daily, all meals while in the jungle and on the Inca • Puno
touch down into Puerto Maldonado at the edge Trail Budget: Allow USD200 for meals not included Tour Code: GAPQG
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45
peru hike,
highlights Days 7-10: Inca Trail / Cuzco Days 12-14: Manu Cloud Forest Biking
• Live it up in Lima At Km 82 it’s ready, steady, go! You’ll certainly Soak in the sweet views and humid air standing
• Get colonial in Cuzco feel that adrenaline pump as you take your speechless as all of Amazonia unfurls beneath
• Ride your way through river rapids time to climb the trail, gasping quite literally at you. From the Ajanacu Pass drop 3550m down
• Hike the Inca Trail the epic views and awesome Andean altitude. into the Manu Cloud Forest, descending the
• See sunrise over Machu Picchu Hang out with your fellow hiking buddies as you lush slopes of the Andes and arriving into the
• Rave and roam through rainforest head up to the highest point of the trail - Dead San Pedro lodge for the night. Pedal past some
• Witness wacky wildlife Woman’s Pass. Push on up as your legendary incredible wildlife and snap some sensational
• Mobilise on mountain bikes porters speed past you ready to greet your surroundings. Head to ‘Cock of the Rock Lek’ - a
gobsmacked chops with delicious dishes and mating ground for birds, allowing you to get up
Day 1: arrive lima brilliant banter at the campsite. (3B, 3L, 3D) close and personal to this wonderful wildlife
Let the wild times begin. Arrive and explore; be in their natural habitats. A job no zoo can do
yourself once more. Let Lima’s urban jungle pick Day 11: Cuzco justice to. (2B, 3L, 2D)
you up and toss you around in a whirlwind of Chillax in colonial Cuzco at the markets and
underestimated excitement. museums. Give horse riding a go or pop off Day 15: lima
and paraglide if you just can’t get enough of all Take advantage of your last morning in Cuzco.
Day 2: cuzco the gawd-damn breathtaking local landscape. Stock up on souvenirs before returning to Lima
Jet over to Cuzco on an early morning flight. Get Buy another alpaca hat and shuffle over the for a final night of fun in the capital. Rock on.
involved and get out there. Seek out the sites cobblestone streets dreaming of times gone by
and drink up the atmosphere. Wander up to Sexy and adventures still to come. Day 16: depart lima
Woman (she’s a real hottie) and Tambo Machay - Say adios amigos and skip off into the sunset
another impressive Inca site. with your new mates.
Day 6: Ollantaytambo
Sashay through the Sacred Valley today until you
hit the tongue-twisting town of Ollantaytambo.
Check out some must-see Inca sites and chill out
with the locals before heading out on the Inca
Trail tomorrow. Control your excitement!
46
Galapagos
& peru
encompasseD
26 DAYS, $4,959 fr
Quito - lima
At some point during this 26 day travelling Day 1: Arrive Quito Day 5: Black Turtle Cove / quito
fantasy you’ll realise there is no turning back. Arrive at any time and feel free to explore. Sail to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, the
Those black and white ideologies you once most populated island within the archipelago. In
blindly followed will mutate into translucent Day 2: Puerto Ayora the morning you’ll visit Black Turtle Cove before
grey. That fixed itinerary through life that many Jump on an early flight to the Galapagos Islands. you sail to Baltra Island for your return flight to
expected you to follow will weave and wind its Upon arrival you are transferred by ferry and bus Quito. After checking into your hotel, enjoy one
way into a million possibilities. Any poisoned to Puerto Ayora - where you’ll board your boat last night out in this historic city.
cynicism that’s hardened itself around your and meet your naturalist guide for a visit to the
personality will dissolve and swiftly fade away. Charles Darwin Research Station. Day 6: Quito / Lima
This is the personification of life-changing Fly to Lima. This flight is not included - our
travel. Encounters with the gaily coloured blue- Day 3: Floreana island advisers will happily organise it for you.
prints of existence on the Galapagos Islands. Reach Floreana Island in the morning, learn
Breath sapping treks across ancient lands to about the legends and visit Champion Islet. Day 7: Pisco
a mystical ruined city. Amazonian exploration Later in the afternoon you’ll make your way Catch a bus to Pisco. Spend a night on the town
amongst a cacophony of animal sounds. Simple towards Punta Cormorant on the northern part enjoying the famous local drink, the Pisco Sour.
but beautiful local life on the floating islands of of Floreana. The landing is on a beach of green
Lake Titicaca... This adventure is crammed full of sand, coloured by olivine crystals. The trail leads Days 8-9: Nazca
revelatory moments - and as you journey from to a lake normally inhabited by flamingos and Arise early if you fancy an optional boat trip to
Ecuador deep into Peru your heart and mind will other shore birds and continues to a beach of the wildlife abundant Ballestas Islands. Later on
fuse with this stunning swath of Latin America. fine white sand particles known as “Flour Beach”, you’ll catch a bus, stopping at the huge sand
an important nesting site for turtles. Head dunes around Ica on your way to one of the
highlights around the point to Devil’s Crown - this is the world’s greatest archaeological mysteries, the
• Discover the wildlife of the Galapagos perfect spot to go snorkelling from the boat, as Nazca Lines. The amazing depictions of birds,
• Visit the Darwin Research Station the waters are home to a multitude of colourful insects and animals are only truly recognisable
• Swim & snorkel with amazing marine life fish and sea lions. from the air - an optional light aircraft trip is
• Sip on a Pisco Sour easily arranged. On Day nine you’ll take a tour of
• Explore Nazca and a pre-Incan cemetery Day 4: Española island the ancient pre-Inca desert cemetery of Chachiia
• Check out the condors of Colca Canyon Sail to Gardner Bay and Punta Suarez, on - with 1500 year old mummies and bones! That
• Cruise across Lake Titicaca Española Island. This is the southernmost island evening you’ll jump on the night bus to Arequipa.
• Stay with a local Peruvian family in the Galapagos archipelago and home to
• Wander the beautiful streets of Cuzco several wildlife species, including masked and DAY 10: AREQUIPA
• Trek the Inca Trail and ramble over ruins Blue-footed boobies. Take an optional hike to 2325m above sea level, Peru’s second-largest
• Witness a sunrise over Machu Picchu the top of a cliff for spectacular views. city is surrounded by the Andes mountains and
• Explore the Amazon Jungle lies in the shadow of El Misti Volcano.
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47
Days 11-12: Colca Canyon Days 16-17: Cuzco Days 23-25: Amazon Jungle
Enroute to Colca Canyon, you’ll stop at the Enjoy spectacular views of the high Altiplano Fly from the high Andes to Puerto Maldonado,
picturesque village of Chivay, where you can travelling from Puno to Cuzco. Cuzco is the deep in the Amazon lowlands. Travel by
take a dip in the hot thermal baths, watch live continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city, motorised canoe to a lodge in the Tambopata
Andean music at a peña or go for a llama steak. and the hub of the South American travel Rainforest Area, which holds the world record
Upon arrival at Colca Canyon - acclimatise to network. Strap on a comfortable pair of shoes, for the most bird sightings. Explore the jungle
the altitude by taking a short hike through the arm yourself with a city map and set off to with the expert local guides and learn about
stunning landscapes. Take a tour; check out explore the cobblestone streets, museums, the area’s rich flora and fauna. Keep your eyes
fascinating villages and stop at “miradors” markets and churches. peeled for Harpy eagles, tapirs, jaguars, ocelots
(scenic lookouts), where you can spot Andean and other weird and wonderful indigenous
condors soaring over the majestic mountains. Days 18-21: Inca Trail animals. Later on Day 25 you’ll fly back to Lima
Begin a once in a lifetime journey on the for one last Pisco Sour. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Days 13-15: Puno / Lake Titicaca ancient trail of the Incas. Local porters and
Travel to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. guides ensure that the trip is worry-free, and Day 26: Depart Lima
At 3830m above sea level, Puno is the highest fascinating ruins and spectacular mountain This amazing trip comes to an end on Day 26.
altitude of any place you sleep on the tour. On scenery fill every day of the hike as you move Start planning your next adventure!
the morning of Day 14 you’ll head out by boat from high plateau areas to dense cloud forest.
across Lake Titicaca. You’ll cruise to Taquile On the final day of the hike you’ll climb the steps
Island via the floating reed islands of the to the Sun Gate overlooking the peaks that Do it your way
Uros people - before a lovely lunch in a local surround Machu Picchu. When the morning is
restaurant and some shopping opportunities in clear the first views of Machu Picchu are nothing stay longer
the local weaving cooperatives. You’ll stay that short of startling - as the mist rises off the Galapagos & Absolute Peru
30 days fr $5,939 Tour Code: GAEA10A
night with a local family - listen to the local mountains early in the morning and the famous
music and learn about the ancient traditions. site appears in front of you. Return by train to
You’ll head back to Puno on Day 15 where you’ll Ollantaytambo or Poroy, before transferring by
spend another night. (B, L, D) van to Cuzco on Day 21. (3B, 3L, 3D)
DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
• Quito
2010 APR 26 MAY 21 AUG 23 SEP 17 DEC 20 JAN 14
JAN 04 JAN 29 MAY 03 MAY 28 AUG 30 SEP 24 DEC 27 JAN 21 • Galapagos Islands
JAN 11 FEB 05 MAY 10 JUN 04 SEP 06 OCT 01 2011
JAN 18 FEB 12 MAY 17 JUN 11 SEP 13 OCT 08 JAN 03 JAN 28
JAN 25 FEB 19 MAY 24 JUN 18 SEP 20 OCT 15 JAN 10 FEB 04
FEB 01 FEB 26 MAY 31 JUN 25 SEP 27 OCT 22 JAN 17 FEB 11
FEB 08 MAR 05 JUN 07 JUL 02 OCT 04 OCT 29 JAN 24 FEB 18
FEB 15 MAR 12 JUN 14 JUL 09 OCT 11 NOV 05 JAN 31 FEB 25
FEB 22 MAR 19 JUN 21 JUL 16 OCT 18 NOV 12 FEB 07 MAR 04
MAR 01 MAR 26 JUN 28 JUL 23 OCT 25 NOV 19 FEB 14 MAR 11
MAR 08 APR 2 JUL 05 JUL 30 NOV 01 NOV 26 FEB 21 MAR 18
MAR 15 APR 09 JUL 12 AUG 06 NOV 08 DEC 03 FEB 28 MAR 25
MAR 22 APR 16 JUL 19 AUG 13 NOV 15 DEC 10 MAR 07 APR 01
MAR 29 APR 23 JUL 26 AUG 20 NOV 22 DEC 17 MAR 14 APR 08
APR 05 APR 30 AUG 02 AUG 27 NOV 29 DEC 24 MAR 21 APR 15
APR 12 MAY 07 AUG 09 SEP 03 DEC 06 DEC 31 MAR 28 APR 22
APR 19 MAY 14 AUG 16 SEP 10 DEC 13 JAN 07
peru
Accommodation: Hotels/guest houses (15 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), bus (1 nt), • Lima • Amazon
homestay (1 nt), camping (3 nts), motorised yacht (twin share) (3 nts) Transport:
Local flights, motorised yacht, van, train, public bus, boat, canoe, zodiacs, taxis. Machu Picchu •
Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Group Leader: Local naturalist guides (certified by the
• Ollantaytambo
Galapagos National Park) while in the islands Tour leader from Lima onwards, local Pisco • • Cuzco
guides Meals: All meals while in the Galapagos, during the homestay, on the Inca • Nazca
Trail and in the jungle Budget: Allow USD255 for meals not included Puno •
Please Note: Flight from Quito to Lima must be purchased at time of booking to
arrive into Lima on Day 6 Local Payment: USD100 Galapagos park entry fee and
Colca Canyon •
USD10 tourist card payable on arrival to the islands Tour Code: GAEA06A Arequipa •
48
galapagos
& inca
discovery
14 DAYS, $3,709 fr
quito - cuzco
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
49
amazon to
Lima - quito
highlights Days 9-10: Amazon Jungle Day 17: Santa Cruz / Quito
• Discover the wildlife of the Galapagos Fly from the Andes to Puerto Maldonado, in On your last morning in the Galapagos Islands
• Visit the Darwin Research Station the lowlands of the Amazon Jungle. Travel by you'll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
• Swim & snorkel with amazing marine life motorised canoe to your lodge in the Tambopata where you can learn about his famed studies and
• Cruise through the jungle on a canoe Rainforest, which holds the world record for the explorations. You'll then fly back to Quito where
• Discover amazing Amazonian animals most bird sightings in one area - look out for you can enjoy one last night out. (B)
• Marvel at the inspiring Sacred Valley Black Skimmers, Pied Lapwings, Capped herons
• Trek the Inca Trail and ramble over ruins and Jabiru storks. Once at your lodge explore the Day 18: depart Quito
• Witness a sunrise over Machu Picchu jungle with expert local guides and learn about Your magnificent adventure sadly comes to an
the area's rich flora and fauna. (2B, 2L, 2D) end on Day 18 - say your goodbyes.
Day 1: arrive Lima
Arrive at any time - and start exploring!
DEPARTURES
Day 2: Cuzco START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 APR 25 MAY 12 AUG 22 SEP 08 DEC 19 JAN 05
• Quito
Jump on a very early flight to Cuzco, the JAN 03 JAN 20 MAY 02 MAY 19 AUG 29 SEP 15 DEC 26 JAN 12
continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city, JAN 10
JAN 17
JAN 27
FEB 03
MAY 09
MAY 16
MAY 26
JUN 02
SEP 05
SEP 12
SEP 22
SEP 29
2011
JAN 02 JAN 19
• Galapagos Islands
and the hub of the South American travel JAN 24 FEB 10 MAY 23 JUN 09 SEP 19 OCT 06 JAN 09 JAN 26
JAN31 FEB 17 MAY 30 JUN 16 SEP 26 OCT 13 JAN 16 FEB 02
network. Relax or explore the Inca spiritual sites FEB 07 FEB 24 JUN 06 JUN 23 OCT 03 OCT 20 JAN 23 FEB 09 peru
FEB 14 MAR 03 JUN 13 JUN 30 OCT 10 OCT 27 JAN 30 FEB 16
of Sacsayhuaman and Tambo Machay. FEB 21 MAR 10 JUN 20 JUL 07 OCT 17 NOV 03 FEB 02 FEB 23
FEB 28 MAR 17 JUN 27 JUL 14 OCT 24 NOV 11 FEB 13 MAR 02
MAR 07 MAR 24 JUL 04 JUL 21 OCT 31 NOV 17 FEB 20 MAR 09
MAR 14 MAR 31 JUL 11 JUL 28 NOV 07 NOV 24 FEB 27 MAR 16
Day 3: Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo MAR 21 APR 07 JUL 18 AUG 04 NOV 14 DEC 01 MAR 06 MAR 23
MAR 28 APR 14 JUL 25 AUG 11 NOV 21 DEC 08 MAR 13 MAR 30
Travel with your local guide through the Sacred APR 04 APR 21 AUG 01 AUG 18 NOV 28 DEC 15 MAR 20 APR 06
Valley of the Incas - a lush agricultural region APR 11 APR 28 AUG 08 AUG 25 DEC 05 DEC 22 MAR 27 APR 13
APR 18 MAY 5 AUG 15 SEP 01 DEC 12 DEC 29
that continues to supply Cuzco with much of its
Accommodation: Hotels/guest houses (8 nts), camping (3 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts),
produce. Visit the impressive Pisac ruins and the twin-share cabin on board the motorised yacht (4 nts) Transport: Public bus, local
• Lima
flights, train, boat, canoe, hiking, motorized yacht, zodiacs, public bus Amazon Jungle •
colourful artisan market. The day trip finishes in Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Group Leader: Tour leader, local guides, local naturalist
Machu Picchu •
guide (certified by the Galapagos National Park) Meals: All meals while in the
the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, site of jungle, on the Inca Trail and while in the Galapagos Budget: Allow USD135 for Ollantaytambo •
meals not included Please Note: Flight from Lima to Quito must be purchased at Cuzco •
another large Inca ruin. Catch your breath and time of booking to arrive into Lima on Day 12 Tour Code: GAPA07A
prepare for the hike ahead.
50
hop-on hop-off
peru & bolivia
It has never been easier to explore Peru and • Experience the real Peru and Bolivia
Bolivia. Our fantastic hop-on hop-off bus pass and enjoy loads of included cultural,
allows you to travel independently in Peru, adventure and lifestyle activities.
Bolivia and Ecuador while enjoying a range of
outstanding adventure activities. Buy one travel • Travel on a variety of transport and
pass and create your own personalised itinerary experience the local way of life by
with the freedom to choose where to go, when travelling on safe local first class public
to depart and how many days you need to buses.
properly explore each unique destination. The
drivers and guides will be your local friends in a • Daily departures - flexible itineraries
foreign country, giving you local insider tips in with convenient departures everyday.
every town.
• Choose your starting point, ending point
Each and every pass includes some or all of the and everywhere in between.
below activities:
• Travel with lots of like minded travellers
Paracas: Ballestas Islands and make new friends.
Take a speedboat ride to the Ballestas Islands.
Check out hundreds of Peruvian bobbies, • Make unlimited changes to your itinerary
pelicans, cormorants and many other native as you are travelling - with no time limit
birds. Observe sea lions relaxing on the beach, to reach your final destination.
dolphins swimming playfully in the sea and
depending on the time of year, you may well • Accommodation is not included, but
encounter the famous Humboldt penguins. you'll be dropped off at the best hostels
and hotels in town.
Ica: Dune Buggy & Sandboarding
Head to the desert oasis of La Huacachine
and learn the art of sand boarding from an
experienced local tour guide in one of the
hottest and most amazing landscapes of Peru.
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51
peru peru
• Lima • Lima
Cuzco • Cuzco •
Andahuaylillas • Andahuaylillas •
• Raqchi Paracas • • Raqchi
Paracas •
• Ballestas Island Sicuani • • La Raya • Ballestas Island Sicuani • • La Raya
Pukara • Ica / Huacachina • Pukara •
Ica / Huacachina • Puno • Bolivia
Puno • Nazca •
Nazca • Copacabana •
La Paz •
Arequipa • Arequipa •
First Class Public Bus First Class Public Bus
Tourist Bus Tourist Bus
peru peru
• Lima
Cuzco • Cuzco •
Andahuaylillas • Andahuaylillas •
Paracas • • Raqchi • Raqchi
• Ballestas Island Sicuani • • La Raya Sicuani •
• La Raya
Ica / Huacachina • Pukara • Pukara •
Puno • Bolivia Puno • Bolivia
Nazca • Copacabana • Copacabana •
La Paz • La Paz •
Arequipa •
First Class Public Bus First Class Public Bus
Tourist Bus Tourist Bus
peru peru
• Lima
Cuzco • Cuzco •
Andahuaylillas • Andahuaylillas •
• Raqchi • Raqchi
Paracas • Sicuani •
• Ballestas Island Sicuani • • La Raya • La Raya
Pukara • Pukara •
Ica / Huacachina • Puno • Bolivia
Puno •
Nazca • Copacabana •
La Paz •
Arequipa •
First Class Public Bus First Class Public Bus
Tourist Bus Tourist Bus
52
lima &
the coast
the point hostel, lima los girasoles, lima duo boutique hotel, lima
Set in a colonial house in boho Barranco, this fun An awesome home away from home affordable A small minimalist boutique hotel in chic
hostel has a well-stocked bar, great for drinks hotel with free WiFi, free use of barbecue, games Miraflores newly converted from a family home
before you hit the nightlife only 5 mins away. room and movie theatre. Inclusive breakfast is into a modern and stylish place to stay. There's
Hang out in the garden or the TV room. There's served until 11am (for all you late risers!). Some a gorgeous pool and large bright terrace area.
free wireless, ping pong and pool tables. STA500 rooms have a terrace or garden attached. STA501 Room service is an added bonus. STA502
fr $14 DORM, INC. bREAKFAST fr $86 SINGLE , INC. bREAKFAST fr $108 SINGLE , INC. bREAKFAST
fr $96 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST fr $171 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST
Spanish Language
School Lima
14 days fr $1,011
Learn the lingo and enjoy the best that Lima has
to offer! When you're not working on your vocab
and verbs, explore the nightlife of Miraflores or
Barranco. Paraglide over the coast or head down
to the beach for some surf. Take part in weekly
cultural activities with your fellow classmates.
The school is located in one of the many
mansions in historic Miraflores.
Accommodation: Ranges from cosy home-stays to riotous student residences
Meals: 2 meals a day at homestays and self catering in student residences
Also Included: Enrolment fees, course materials, certificate of attendance
Tour Code: STA503
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53
casa andina, lima the point hostel, Máncora casa andina, nazca
The most legendary 5-star hotel in Miraflores, A two hour flight from Lima, you'll love the white An airy, coastal-style hotel that’s modern with a
restyled for the 21st century. Spectacular suites sands and blue waters of Mancora Beach. Swing welcoming rustic touch. The long, open-air patio
with dazzling views, state-of-the-art technology in a hammock, play football on the beach or go is lined with balconies, tall palm trees and leafy
facilities, indoor pool, sauna, salon & gym. Only for a swim. Sun, surf, bikinis & beer is the motto green plants, giving the hotel a tropical feel. The
two blocks from the Parque Central. STA504 of this chilled out bamboo style hostel! STA505 restaurant overlooks the pool and patio bar. STA506
fr $273 SINGLE, INC. bREAKFAST fr $14 DORM, INC. bREAKFAST fr $91 SINGLE, INC. bREAKFAST
fr $273 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST fr $32 DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST fr $93 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST
cuzco
The Point Hostel casa andina koricancha Casa Andina private collection
Party 'till dawn at this fun hostel. The staff are Check out this awesome hotel. There's a great Warm, friendly and elegant, this gorgeous hotel
uber friendly and know where the best nights traditional Peruvian restaurant onsite, internet is a beautifully renovated old colonial mansion.
out are. There’s free internet, free breakfast and much more. The main square is only three It boasts three exclusive courtyards - perfect for
until 1pm, a pool table, DVD room, cable TV, and a half blocks away and the Koricancha spending the evenings sipping the hotel's tasty
restaurant, huge garden and very lively bar! STA508 temple is right on your doorstep. STA509 signature cocktail, Pisco Sours! STA510
fr $16 DORM, INC. bREAKFAST fr $144 SINGLE, INC. bREAKFAST fr $230 SINGLE, INC. bREAKFAST
fr $145 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST fr $230 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
55
Teach English in the heart of the old Incan empire. Experience life in Lima's suburbs and share your • 3 days in the Amazon Jungle
Choose between a state school or technical caring side with young Peruivians. This home • Lodge transfer by Amazonian boat
institute, both of which maintain the traditions of has been running for over 100 years and offers • Comfortable bungalow accommodation
the ancient Quechan way of life, while balancing much needed care and shelter to 270 young girls • Fees for National Parks included
it with the demands of the modern world. By who have been abandoned, abused or who have
learning the English language, students can lost their families. Female volunteers who are Day 1
broaden their personal horizons and gain access compassionate, patient and can speak a little Check out the town while your permits are
to better employment opportunities. You'll be Spanish are a precious resource. You'll join a being sorted. Head into the jungle on traditional
working in Cuzco, the archealogical capital of the friendly team of psychologists, teachers, doctors Amazonian boat. Enjoy lunch and relax by
Americas, and the ideal starting point for trips and nurses - teaching English, art, cooking, the pool before heading out on an afternoon
to Machu Picchu. Your Latin American adventure sports and more. ITXXXX trek. Check out the bird life, medicinal plants,
starts here! ITXXXX butterflies and other animals. Before dinner
activities you'll head out on a small river night safari with
activities Activities depend on volunteer skills. They could the hopes of spotting the elusive white Caiman.
Teaching English. include workshops for English, sewing, arts,
cosmetics, cooking...playing sports, assisting Day 2
accommodation with special needs children, or helping teenage Head out at dawn in search of the 'parrot clay-
Family-run guesthouse/homestay. mothers with their babies. lick'. There are five different species of parrot
that feed on the clay - it's reputed to assist
meals accommodation in their metabolism. Head back for breakfast
Breakfast and dinner provided daily. Homestay, shared room. and enjoy some free time hanging around the
lodge. You'll head out later again on the boat
working hours meals in the direction of "Monkey Island" where
Flexible; Monday to Friday, 5-6 hours per day, all Two meals a day. Squirrel monkeys, Howler monkeys and Capuchin
other time is free for you to enjoy Cuzco and its monkeys run wild! A 5km trek will follow - keep
various different activities. working hours an eye out for jaguars! Check out the Sandolva
Flexible; Monday to Friday 9am to 12:30pm and Lake where you’ll find giant river otters, black
also inculded 3pm to 5pm, all other time is free. Hours at the caimans, piranhas and even anacondas.
• TEFL certification boys home is Monday to Friday 8am to 1pm or
• Airport pickup 1pm to 6pm. Day 3
• Orientation After breakfast it's time to say goodbye to the
• 24/7 support from local staff also inculded lodge and national park. Leave your monkeys
• Airport pickup behind and depart with your guide back to the
• Orientation city and onto the airport, homeward-bound.
• 24/7 support from local staff
Accommodation: Bungalow at the Corto Maltes Amazonia has a private bathroom
with hot water 24 hours and a large terrace with hammocks where you can enjoy
the excellent view of Madre de Dios river and the jungle that surrounds the lodge.
You'll be sharing a twin-bed bungalow with another fellow traveller
Transport: Amazonian boat and airport pick up and drop off Guide: English
Speaking Guide Meals: All meals on the trip Also Includes: Entrance fees to sites
Please Note: Flights to Puerto Maldonado are not included Tour Code: STA513
56
southern peru
Lake Titicaca and Islands
2 days, fr $97
departs: daily
colca
canyon
trek Day 2: Sangalle Valley
Walk to the villages of Coshñirhua and Malata
known for their fruit trees. Arrive into beautiful,
4 days, fr $166 fertile "Sangalle Valley" - close to the Colca river.
Lounge in the pools and prepare for a magical
Start & Finish: arequipa evening under the stars, complete with campfire.
departs: daily
Day 3: chivay / arequipa
Day 1: Arequipa / San Juan de Cchucho Enjoy a short walk and time in the local village.
Head out bright and early through the National Absorb the culture then bus it to Cruz del Condor
Reserve of Pampa Cañahua - a natural reserve for a truly remarkable sight - the magnificent
for llamas, alpacas and vicuñas. Arrive for lunch condors flying through the canyon. Have lunch in
in the town of Cabanaconde and begin your Chivay and soak away your stress in hot springs.
canyon trek. Spend the evening over dinner Head back to Arequipa late afternoon.
with the locals, and stay with one of the local
Accommodation: 2 nights accommodation in local cabins and under the stars
families. Transport: All transport Group Leader: Fluent in English & Spanish
Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches & 2 Dinners Tour Code: STA519
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57
Currency: BOLIVIANO
bolivia
• Sorata
• La Paz
• Oruro • Santa Cruz
• Sucre
Uyuni •
Salt Lakes •
bolivia
My favourite The Weather
The Andean plateau has an extreme
Useful Info
Some 40,000 years ago, the area
experience
"When we got to Fish Island on the salt flats, no one could contain
type of tropical highland climate.
The most sunshine happens
between December and March but
that the impressive salt flats cover
was part of Lake Minchin, a giant
prehistoric lake. When the lake
themselves. We stood on top of this hill covered in cacti thousands of so does the most rainfall, even if it dried, it left behind two modern
years old and all we could see was white. It was completely surreal! Like is low overall. At altitude (La Paz) lakes, Poopó Lake and Uru Uru
skating over a vast ice-rink, except of course it’s all salt. Bizarre but very, temperatures massively drop and Lake - and two major salt deserts,
very cool. It's a moment that'll stay with me forever!!" Sinead don't change much the whole year Coipasa and Uyuni. Uyuni is roughly
round. The range of temperatures 25 times the size of the Bonneville
is vast however, so nights can get salt flats in the United States.
pretty chilly, particularly during the
dry winter or low-sun period - frost Useless Info
is almost a nightly occurrence. Alpacas are not only useful for their
wool, but also provide fuel from
Local Eats their dung. Interestingly, males
Try out the tasty Bolivian savoury have much tidier and fewer dung
salteñas - like smaller versions of piles than females who tend to
a pasty and humitas, a sweetened stand in a line and all go at once.
corn meal wrapped inside a corn One female approaches the dung
husk or banana leaf and then pile and begins to urinate and/or
boiled or steamed. Go coco for the defecate and the rest of the herd
naturally made smoothies - but ask often follows.
for them to be made with bottled
water to avoid them coming back to try before you fly
haunt you. Watch 'Che: Part 2' with Benicio Del
Toro for seriously stunning scenery.
58
bolivia on a
shoestring
21 DAYS, $2,069 fr
lima - la paz
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59
11 DAYS, $1,179 fr day working mine for a close up look at methods Day 10: La Paz
that have hardly changed in decades, if not A last chance for wacky souvenir shopping and if
start and finish: LA PAZ centuries. Explosive stuff! that’s the order of the day be sure to check out
the Witches market for a whole host of weird
Still relatively untouched by tourism, Bolivia Days 6-8: Uyuni / Salt Lakes and wonderful stuff. Find potions a plenty for
offers some of the most dramatic scenery the Spend the next three days exploring the both real and imagined ailments, walk around the
continent has to offer, a tasty local lifestyle and stunning landscapes between the Salar de Uyuni city centre and enjoy your final moments of this
cities rich in cultural and colonial history. And and Chile’s Atacama Desert in an all singing, all interesting, bizarre and often insane city.
because this marvellous little country remains dancing 4WD vehicle – actually no, that’s just the
relatively 'off the beaten track' - there is a passengers. Take your sunglasses; the already Day 11: Depart La Paz
whole lot still to be discovered - perfect for strong sun bouncing off the whiter than white It's not even a case of swapping numbers or email
curious lust-for-life types like you and your salt flats is pretty intense, and frazzled eyes addresses these days is it? Swap your name for
amigos. This 11 day experience is an all round ain’t a good look this coming season. The sights social networking. Say TTFN and upload all those
epic adventure of exciting and enthralling are quite simply astounding; particularly once shockingly silly and stupendous photos.
encounters - not to mention the altitude that’ll you hit Fish Island so make sure you’ve charged
leave an impression on your heart in more your camera - it's a photographer's dream come
ways than one. Phew! Gawp at the traditional true. Carry on along the rugged terrain, moon
dress, gaze at starlit skies, dance with Bolivian boots and astronaut suit optional. Stop at the
rhythm and enter into a culture just itching to be incredible coloured lagunas, home to beautiful
uncovered. It’s all ‘very naice’ – as Borat himself flamingos standing elegant and proud. Pass
would agree. So get with the program and join geysers, boiling mud pools, thermal baths and
the Boliviawahweewah magic. the whopping Licancabúr volcano (5960m) that
looms in the distance. Cacti lovers will also be in
highlights for their share of spiky treats. (2B, 3L, 2D)
• Live La Paz’s local lifestyle
• Visit historic Sucre's prehistoric friends
• Explore explosive Potosí
• Stand awe-struck on the Salar de Uyuni
• Crack hilarious jokes on Fish Island
DEPARTURES
• Walk on moon-like terrain zombie style 2010
• Marvel at fantastically coloured lagoons JAN - DEC
2011
SAT
La paz &
the salt flats
Downhill Biking YungAs:
La Paz to Coroico
full day fr $125
hi hostel onkel inn, la paz hotel el dorado, LA PAZ If there's one thing better than cycling in a
A cool place for cool people. Bright, comfy and Well located and within easy walking distance foreign country, it's cycling downhill in a foreign
clean rooms, there's a roof terrace with a jacuzzi of most of the sights, this simple hotel is clean country. Your guided tour starts at "the Pass/
for some great views, TV room, kitchen, internet and comfortable with friendly staff. Tuck into Cumbre" (4680m) on an impressive 5-6 hours
access and bike rental. A top place to bunk down tasty breakfasts and enjoy great views of the downhill ride to Yolosa (800m). It's a controlled
for a few days. STA520 mountains from the front of the hotel. STA521 but exciting adventure. From the dry Altiplano
into the green Yungas, the scenic entry towards
fr $20 DORM, INC. bREAKFAST fr $60 SINGLE, INC. bREAKFAST the lowlands of the Amazonia ends in the lovely
fr $67 SINGLE , INC. bREAKFAST fr $67 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST village-terrace of Coroico. Tour Code: STA522
fr $73 DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST
Crossing
the Salt day 2: salar de uyuni
fossilised coral in the middle of the Salar. Also available in reverse - Please enquire for details.
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61
galapagos
Quito •
• Tena
• Machalilla • Baños
Guayaquil • • Riobamba
• AlausÍ
ecuador
Ecuador
Currency: US DOLLAR
Population: 13.6 MILLION
Price of a beer: $1.30
experience
"I remember lying back on the deck of my boat as the sweet breeze of the
diversity local weather patterns
vary greatly. The mainland coastal
areas in the Galapagos Islands are
altitude. If you're flying straight
into Quito (2800m above sea level)
then you might be hit with altitude
Pacific cooled the delicious equatorial sunshine. The azzure skies above me hot and rainy between January and sickness. Drink lots of water and
were filled with the huge wingspans of at least 100 Frigate birds. These April, and cool and dryer the rest of take it easy for a few days.
magnificent creatures soared in pefect silence as they followed our boat the year. In the highlands, the dry
through the beautiful blue waters. All the natural wonder of the Galapagos season is from June to September Useless Info
Islands was in harmony and I felt as if I was in heaven..." Simon and around Christmas but there are Under Ecuadorian law a woman
rarely significant periods of rain. can be returned to her parents if
The central valley is spring-like year her husband finds out she is not a
round, with temperatures averaging virgin on their wedding night. Apply
at around 24°C. Over in the Orient this law to Australia - and no one
(Amazon) expect sticky heat and would ever get married!
plenty of rain throughout the year.
try before you fly
Local Eats The Galapagos Islands are
Ecuador does soup better than renowned for being the main
anyone else. Many eat it every inspiration for Charles Darwin and
single day. Our particular favourites his theory of Evolution. If you're
include Caldo de pata (bolied cow wanting to appear more learned
hooves), Locro (cheese, avocado and intelligent than just about
& potatoes) and yaguarlocro everybody else on your trip, make
(potatoes and blood sprinklings). All sure you read his seminal book
are much tastier than they sound. 'On the Origin of Species'. It's
mindblowingly fascinating.
62
galapagos islands
Snorkel with the sea lions or lie in the sun Floreana island (Charles) Bartolomé island (Bartholomew)
with the iguanas, it’s up to you. The Galapagos Site of the famous ‘post office barrel’, which was This small island perfectly depicts the geological
Islands are a haven for some of the world’s most placed there by whalers in the 18th century and history of the Galapagos. Impressive volcanic
interesting and unique creatures. The isolation of is still in use today. Visit Pt. Cormorant, which scenery can be viewed from the top of Bartolomé
these islands has created a wildlife playground has a jade green volcanic beach, a lagoon and (114m), where you will see lava formations,
where birds, sea and land animals are more occasional shore birds and flamingos. Snorkel at volcanic peaks and moon-like landscapes.
curious and approachable than anywhere else Devil’s Crown, a submerged volcanic cone.
on Earth. From the stark, lava fields of Rabida to north seymour island
the rich vegetation and white sand beaches of santa cruz island (Indefatigable) Perhaps the best island for photographers. Bird
Santa Cruz - the Islands are yours to explore... The economic centre of the Galapagos and the life is abundant and exceptionally close to the
most populated island of the archipelago. The trail. The largest colony of magnificent Frigate
santa Fé island (Barrington) Charles Darwin Research Station is a 10 minute birds is found here, as well as nesting blue-
Find an endemic species of land iguana and a walk from Puerto Ayora. Visit the adult and baby footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls.
forest of impressively tall opuntia cacti ‘trees’. Galapagos tortoises, which are raised at the
The Galapagos mockingbird, magnificent Frigate station. Check out Turtle Bay Beach, a 45 minute san cristobal (Chatham)
bird, brown pelican and several species of walk from Puerto Ayora along a lovely trail. The The easternmost island and one of the oldest.
Darwin’s Finches are also commonly sighted. pristine white-sand beach is absolutely stunning! The principal town is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno,
which is the capital of the Galapagos.
española (Hood) rabida island (Jervis)
Prepare for a mighty array of stunning wildlife: This small island’s volcanic rock is covered by isabela (Albemarle)
Marine iguanas with copper red patches, sea Opuntia Cacti, Palo Santo trees and low scrubby Isabela is the largest and most volcanically active
lions, lava lizards and lots of bird life including bushes. Sea lions abound on the picturesque island in the archipelago. Mellow out in Puerto
finches, boobies and gulls. This is also the only dark red beach behind which is a flamingo Villamil, hang out in a hammock and watch
island where Waved Albatross can be seen lagoon. The shoreline serves as a resting site for the boobies fly by. Or hike to the tucked-away
during breeding season (Apr-Dec). several species of seabirds. lagoon that’s home to hundreds of flamingos.
san salvador
(santiago is.)
fernandina
(narborough is.)
Baltra
rÁbida
(Jervis is.) santa cruz
(indefatigable is.)
Santa Rosa • • Bellavista san cristÓbal
isabela (Chatham is.)
(albemarle is.) santa fÉ
(barrington is.)
Santo Tomás • Puerto Baquerizo Moreno • • El Progreso
• Puerto Villamil
santa maria
(floreana is.) • Puerto Velasco Ibarra espaÑola
(hood is.)
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63
Voyage
Galapagos
adventurer v
10 DAYS, $4,129 fr
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65
• Party til the seacows come home start and finish: quito
• Witness incredible wildlife and friends from the sea
• Snorkel like you've never snorkelled before in deep blue waters • Grow your sea legs and live the ocean life
• Sample delicious local cuisine and relax in the sun • Witness incredible wildlife on and around the islands
• Visit Lonesome George at the Charles Darwin research centre • Get out on the water in a kayak, snorkel or boat
• Soak up some deserved sunshine with an ice-cold beer
Day 1: arrive quito • Wake up to sunrise on the beach, never wanting to leave
Head out to a salsoteca or peña for a taste of the vibrant nightlife.
Day 1: arrive quito
Days 2-3: San Cristóbal Island Arrive into Quito and check out the city's rich history colonial district.
Fly to San Cristóbal Island. Absorb panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean
and get on your bike heading downhill, stopping at Mann Beach. Check out Days 2-3: San Cristóbal
the sealife in a kayak on Day three and explore Kicker Rock - the remains Fly to the Island of San Cristóbal. Hop out hiking to the the lookout point
of an underwater volcano rising out of the waters. Snorkel around turtles, of "Las Tijeretas" for some fantastic bird spotting. Spend your free time on
mantarays, sharks and penguins. Visit the Interpretation Centre. (2B, 2L, D) the beaches and make a visit to the Interpretation Centre.
DEPARTURES DEPARTURES
2010 START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
JAN - DEC MOST SATURDAYS 2010 JUN 18 JUN 26 OCT 08 OCT 16
2011 JAN 01 JAN 09 JUL 02 JUL 10 NOV 05 NOV 13
JAN - MAR MOST SATURDAYS JAN 29 FEB 06 JUL 16 JUL 24 DEC 10 DEC 18
FEB 26 MAR 06 JUL 30 AUG 07 2011
Accommodation: Hotels (9 nts) Transport: Local flight, speed MAR 26 APR 03 AUG 13 AUG 21 JAN 14 JAN 22
boat, van, pick-up truck, local buses, zodiacs, public bus APR 23 MAY 01 AUG 27 SEP 04 FEB 18 FEB 26
Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Local naturalist MAY 21 MAY 29 SEP 10 SEP 18 MAR 25 APR 02
guide while in the Galapagos Islands (certified by the
Galapagos National Park), tour rep in Quito Accommodation: Basic hotels (6 nts), camping (2 nts)
Meals: 9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 4 Dinners Budget: Allow Transport: Local flight, speed boat, van, pick-up truck, local
USD100 for meals not included Local Payment: USD100 buses, zodiacs, public bus. Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10
Galapagos park entry fee and USD10 tourist card payable on Group Leader: Local naturalist guide for included activities in
arrival to the islands Tour Code: GASEGL the Galapagos Islands (certified by the Galapagos National
Park), local tour leader, rep in Quito Meals: No meals
included Budget: Allow USD270 for meals not included
STAY LONGER IN QUITO Local Payment: USD100 park entry fee and USD10 tourist
Check out page 68. card payable on arrival to the islands Tour Code: GASEGS
Inland &
amazon
16 DAYS, $2,009 fr
Days 3-4: Amazon Homestay Accommodation: Hotels (9 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), simple village cabanas - multi- • Baños
share (2 nts), historic mountain hacienda (2 nts) Transport: Public bus, local flight,
Arise early and descend into the Amazon jungle taxis, motorised canoe, 4WD vehicles, pick up truck Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10
ecuador
Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guides Meals: All meals while in the
region. The scenery changes dramatically as jungle and during homestay Budget: Allow USD250 for meals not included
Tour Code: GAEIA
you leave the mountains behind and enter lush • Cuenca
tropical rainforest. Experience life in the jungle Add on the Galapagos Islands
first-hand on a homestay with a local Quichua 'Full Ecuador'
family and enjoy the splendid hospitality of fr $4,959 Tour Code: GAEF10P
these amazing people. Make friends and get a
stay longer in quito
new perspective while experiencing a completely
Check out page 68.
different way of doing things. (2B, 2L, 2D)
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67
the ecuador
Day 2: Tena
DEPARTURES
Travel by bus from Quito to the Amazon jungle START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 APR 22 MAY 09 AUG 26 SEP 12 DEC 30 JAN 16
region. Notice the scenery and climate change JAN 07 JAN 24 MAY 13 MAY 30 SEP 16 OCT 03 2011
dramatically as you leave the mountains and JAN 28
FEB 18
FEB 14
MAR 07
JUN 03
JUN 24
JUN 20
JUL 11
OCT 07
OCT 28
OCT 24
NOV 14
JAN 20
FEB 10
FEB 06
FEB 27
Otavalo •
enter the lush tropical rainforest. MAR 11 MAR 28 JUL 15 AUG 01 NOV 18 DEC 05 MAR 03 MAR 20
APR 01 APR 18 AUG 05 AUG 22 DEC 09 DEC 26 MAR 24 APR 10
Quito •
Accommodation: Simple hotels (13 nts), Amazon community stay (2 nts), Andean • Amazon
Days 3-4: Amazon village homestay - may be multi-share (1 nt), night bus (1 nt) Transport: Public bus, • Machalilla
train, truck, motorized canoe Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader • Baños
Visit an indigenous community, experience local throughout, local guides Meals: All meals while in the jungle Budget: Allow USD320 Guayaquil • • Riobamba
for meals not included Tour Code: GAREE
traditions and learn about Quichua history and • AlausÍ
culture. Hike through the rainforest, explore stay longer in quito ecuador
jungle waterfalls and learn about the important Check out page 68.
uses of a variety of tropical plants. Keep your
Add on the Galapagos Islands
eyes peeled for armadillos, honey bears, sloths, 'Full Ecuador'
jaguars, monkeys, manatees, hummingbirds, fr $4,959 Tour Code: GAEF10P
toucans and much more. (2B, 2L, 2D)
68
quito
fr $18 DORM, INC. bREAKFAST fr $157 Twin, INC. bREAKFAST fr $98 SINGLE
fr $32 SINGLE, INC. bREAKFAST fr $157 DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST fr $98 TWIN
fr $44 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST fr $102 DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST
care for
animals in
the amazon accommodation
Shared room in volunteer house.
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69
• Santa Marta (Tayrona N.P.)
Cartagena •
• Bogotá
colombia
Currency: PESO
Population: 45 MILLION
Price of a beer: $1.10
colombia
My favourite The Weather
The weather in Colombia is mostly
Useful Info
Colombia is the world's largest
experience
"Who said Colombia was scary!? Our first night in Bogota was probably the
dependent on how high up you
are. The lowlands are generally hot
and sticky all year round, while
producer of emeralds, and you'll
have many opportunities to buy
them. Don't be conned by the many
best night of the whole trip. It was carnival time, the city was alive with the Andean Highlands are quite men who stand around the streets,
multitudes of revellers - all looking to enjoy themselves. I was dragged a bit cooler - especially at night. ready to pull envelopes from out of
onto a street party by a group of beautiful senoritas. I remember dancing, Summer temperatures can get their pockets. Make sure you only
I remember kissing and I remember feeling happier than I had in years. I very hot, particulary around the buy from a reputable dealer.
woke up the next morning alive with the passion of Colombia..." Peter Caribbean coastline. Bogota boasts
a very pleasant climate all year Useless Info
round, with the driest months being According to a recent study,
from December through to March. Colombia was found to have the
Please bear in mind that all the second happiest people in the
aforesaid advice could well be made world. It was just behind the South
redundant by the wild behaviour of Pacific island of Vanatu.
El Niño and La Niña.
try before you fly
Local grub For a virtual snapshot of the
A fritanga is a heaped plate of colourful landscapes of Colombia
meat - chorizo sausage, ribs, and a surreal insight into the
chops, steaks, organs such as passionate ways of its people -
heart or kidneys and more in any look no further than the novels of
combination. Served with potatoes Nobel Prize winner Gabriel Garcia
and/or fried bananas and fried in a Marquez. '100 years of Solitude'
deep saucepan. Vegetarians might and 'Love in the time of Cholera' are
want to give this dish a miss! two of our particular favourites.
70
bogotÁ
fr $42 SINGLE, iNC. bREAKFAST fr $199 SINGLE , iNC. bREAKFAST fr $230 SINGLE, iNC. bREAKFAST
fr $54 DOUBLE, iNC. bREAKFAST fr $204 TWIN/DOUBLE, iNC. bREAKFAST fr $263 DOUBLE, iNC. bREAKFAST
Head out of the big city towards coffee growing Discover the best bits of the city. Staying in the
country and the mountain town of Manizales. city’s lively Pink Zone you can easily explore
This great package includes your transfers from the historic Spanish-influenced area of La
Bogota, accommodation in a traditional hacienda Candelaria, Plaza Bolívar, El Libertador and
and most of your meals. The big highlight is a Capilla del Sagrario. Poke your nose into the
trip around a coffee producing farm. Wind up arty Museo Botero and realise why Bogotá has
through the hills and enjoy the views of the become known as "The Athens of South America".
green carpet of Arabica coffee plantations. Enjoy the wealth of excellent restaurants, the
Learn about the growing, picking, washing and pretty botanical gardens, and the colourful
roasting, before visiting a “trilladora” to see the sights and sounds of this Colombian city
manual selection process of the coffee grains, shrouded in mountains. STA531
and help out with a taste test. STA530
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71
DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 MAY 15 MAY 26 OCT 02 OCT 13 2011
JAN 30 FEB 10 JUN 19 JUN 30 NOV 06 NOV 17 JAN 15 JAN 26
• Santa Marta (Tayrona N.P.)
MAR 06 MAR 17 JUL 24 AUG 04 DEC 11 DEC 22 FEB 19 MAR 02 Cartagena •
APR 10 APR 21 AUG 28 SEP 08 MAR 26 APR 06
• Bogotá
colombia
72
Brazil, Argentina
& Chile
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73
top 6
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
Amazing
Experiences
3
74
in search of
iguassu
17 DAYS, $2,129 fr
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75
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
Do it your way
go in reverse
BUENOS AIRES - RIO DE JANEIRO
fr $2,129 Tour Code: GAJBR
Day 14: Colonia Days 15-16: Buenos Aires Day 17: Depart Buenos Aires
Step into a remarkably different side of Fancy a swim? Hmm, probably not. Better cross Don't cry for me Argentina (oh come on, we had
Uruguayan life as you head along to Colonia del the Rio del Plata by ferry then and find a free to get it in here somewhere). In your finest Evita
Sacramento, a world away from Montevideo’s page in your passport for yet another stamp as style, it's time to say adios amigos and leave
motorised mayhem. Stroll along the riverfront you arrive into Buenos Aires. You can fit a lot feeling high on life, inspired and invincible.
and up the cobbled streets. Hire a golf buggy into a couple of days down here so head over
and try to remember your left from your right to the areas of colourful working-class La Boca,
- road signs are few and far between and there boho-chic San Telmo, high-class Recoleta and
are no traffic lights. It's altogether the perfect party-central Palermo. Tango those twinkle-toes
setting for that perfect bit of "you've been all night long at a Tangueria and order a steak
framed" action - get your cameras at the ready! as big as your head. Check out the soccer at
Rock up to the light house and unwind under a La Bombonera (the chocolate box) - La Boca's
stunning sunset. Drink sangria, tuck into superb famed blue and gold stadium and if there's time
seafood and try a bit of the local speciality food head up river and explore Tigre. There are bars,
- goat. We kid you not. restaurants and boliches (nightclubs) a plenty to
dance your last nights away in style.
DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 MAY 06 MAY 22 SEP 08 SEP 24 JAN 10 JAN 26
JAN 09 JAN 25 MAY 13 MAY 29 SEP 15 OCT 01 JAN 13 JAN 29
JAN 18 FEB 03 MAY 20 JUN 05 SEP 28 OCT 14 JAN 17 FEB 02
JAN 27 FEB 12 MAY 27 JUN 12 OCT 09 OCT 25 JAN 20 FEB 05
FEB 06 FEB 22 JUN 03 JUN 19 OCT 18 NOV 03 JAN 24 FEB 09
FEB 17 MAR 03 JUN 10 JUN 26 OCT 26 NOV 11 JAN 27 FEB 12
brazil
FEB 20 MAR 08 JUN 17 JUL 03 NOV 02 NOV 18 JAN 31 FEB 16
FEB 24 MAR 12 JUN 24 JUL 10 NOV 09 NOV 25 FEB 03 FEB 19
FEB 28 MAR 16 JUN 30 JUL 16 NOV 17 DEC 03 FEB 07 FEB 23
MAR 04 MAR 20 JUL 06 JUL 22 NOV 23 DEC 09 FEB 14 MAR 02
MAR 11 MAR 27 JUL 12 JUL 28 DEC 04 DEC 20 FEB 17 MAR 05 paraguay
Paraty • • Rio de Janeiro
MAR 14 MAR 30 JUL 19 AUG 04 DEC 12 DEC 28 FEB 21 MAR 09 São Paulo •
MAR 20 APR 05 JUL 26 AUG 11 DEC 18 JAN 01 FEB 24 MAR 12
MAR 26 APR 11 AUG 04 AUG 20 DEC 20 JAN 05 MAR 09 MAR 25 Iguassu Falls •
APR 05 APR 21 AUG 11 AUG 27 DEC 22 JAN 07 MAR 11 MAR 27
APR 12 APR 28 AUG 18 SEP 03 2011 MAR 18 APR 03 Argentina
APR 20 MAY 06 AUG 25 SEP 10 JAN 03 JAN 19 MAR 28 APR 13
APR 27 MAY 13 SEP 01 SEP 17 JAN 06 JAN 22
Accommodation: Simple hotels (14 nts), night Bus (2 nts) - accommodation can be Salto •
quite basic/multi-share at times Transport: Public bus, train, ferry, walking Group
Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guides Meals: No uruguay
meals included Budget: Allow USD300 for meals not included Tour Code: GAJRB Colonia •
Buenos Aires • • Montevideo
stay longer in buenos aires
Check out pages 90-91.
76
Day 1: arrive buenos aires Accommodation: Comfort hotels (7 nts) Transport: Private van, local flights,
Argentina
comfortable buses Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader
Arrive into this glorious city. Check out the throughout, local guides Meals: 7 Breakfasts Budget: Allow USD350 for meals not
included Tour Code: GASBR
plethora of incredible restaurants, see a tango
show or check out theatreland. Failing that head go in reverse
to a jazz club, guitar show (peña) or relax in a Rio de Janeiro - Buenos Aires • Buenos Aires
bar with a glass of excellent Argie vino. Fr $2,009 Tour Code: GASSB
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77
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
brazil &
argentina
discovery
11 DAYS, $1,659 fr
From Rio to Buenos Aires you’ll be dancing til the Days 2-4: Paraty Days 9-10: Night bus / Buenos Aires
cows come home, taking in some terrific sites A hop skip and a jump along Brazil’s emerald Head south overnight to the cosmopolite’s dream
and visiting some of the most vibrant places coastline will find yourself rolling into the that is Buenos Aires. Set out and explore this
on the planet - not that we’re biased…much! beautiful colonial city of Paraty. Wander the vibrant metropolis of never-ending European
Bright splashes of colour coupled with beautiful cobblestone streets, head out on board a boat or influences that could fill your days forever
beaches and tropical islands, not to mention go for a stroll barefoot along the beach and feel with its great bars and restaurants alone. Be
the insatiable thirst for fun and a dusk' till dawn the sand between your toes - heaven on earth. choosy and head downtown to the colourful
nightlife that Brazil has a certain reputation for, Take in a historical ‘fazenda’ (coffee estate) or neighbourhoods of La Boca, San Telmo - great
you’ll be high on life and happy as Larry (whoever satisfy your curiosity for cachaça – the local for Sunday markets, and pop your head into
he is) all the way to Argentina. Mid way you’ll be liquor – at a distillery. It’s also a great chance to the huge French-style cemetry in high-class
completely mesmerised by the incredible Iguassu haggle for havaianas and flirt for football shirts Recoleta. Participate at one of the various
Falls. Marvel at the sheer power of nature at one of the various tourist-friendly markets. tanguerias or tango houses - learn the steps
unadulterated before you wiggle your way down with a lesson or two. And don’t forget the Bife
to Buenos Aires and get into the porteño's (local) Days 5-8: Night bus / Iguassu Falls de Chorizo – Argie steak at its absolute best!
sexy and seductive spirit. Hit the road Jack, don't you come back. Well
no, do - you'll definitely want to return one Day 11: Depart Buenos Aires
• Make friends with Jesus in Rio day. Bop on overnight to Iguassu. Come armed Time to trot like a gaucho, off into the sunset.
• Samba in the sun on Copacabana beach with bedtime stories and hilarious anecdotes in
• Indulge your senses on tropical islands abundance to entertain your new-found friends
• Gaze gob-smacked at Iguassu falls on board this comfy coach-time cruise. Explore
• Take epic photos a plenty the jaw-dropping sights of Iguassu Falls from
• Proudly parade in the Pampas not one but two different viewpoints that just
• Appreciate the Argentine appetite so happen to be in different countries. Count
• Tango in Buenos Aires those passport stamps! Peer over the edge of
the boardwalks and witness the incredible power
Day 1: Arrive Rio de Janeiro of nature as the water plunges spectacularly into
In a super-speedy spin around the city, soak the vast canyon below.
up the sunshine, samba on the sand, and sip
caipirinha cocktails till dawn. Alternatively
helicopter over Christ the Redeemer, ride a cable
car to the top of the Sugar Loaf or be completely
DEPARTURES
random and eat cheese on a stick from a street- START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 MAY 22 JUN 01 SEP 25 OCT 05 2011
stall. Mmm, tasty. Let the locals guide you, JAN 16 JAN 26 JUN 05 JUN 15 OCT 09 OCT 29 JAN 01 JAN 11
enlivening your senses one by one. FEB 02
FEB 27
MAR 02
MAR 09
JUN 19
JUL 03
JUN 29
JUL 13
OCT 23
NOV 06
NOV 02
NOV 16
JAN 15
JAN 29
JAN 25
FEB 08
MAR 13 MAR 23 JUL 17 JUL 27 NOV 20 NOV 30 FEB 12 FEB 22
MAR 27 APR 06 JUL 31 AUG 10 DEC 04 DEC 14 FEB 26 MAR 08
brazil
APR 10 APR 20 AUG 14 AUG 24 DEC 18 DEC 28 MAR 09 MAR 19
APR 24 MAY 04 AUG 28 SEP 07 MAR 12 MAR 22
MAY 08 MAY 18 SEP 11 SEP 21 MAR 26 APR 05
Accommodation: Simple hotels (8 nts), night bus (2 nts) Transport: Public bus, van paraguay
Paraty • • Rio de Janeiro
Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guides
Meals: No meals included Budget: Allow USD200 for meals not included
Tour Code: GASZAD Iguassu Falls •
GO IN REVERSE: Argentina
Buenos Aires - Rio de Janeiro
fr $1,659 Tour Code: GASAZD
iguassu and
beyond
15 DAYS, $2,949 fr
Rhythm, soul, colour and unrivalled emotion Days 2-4: Mercedes – Esteros del Iberá Days 11-13: Ilha Grande
are just some of the "isn’t the world wonderful" Spend a half-day touring your new favourite Get your groove on as you gun further up the
elements you’ll get a handle on over the next 15 city, drinking coffee and eating infamous dulce Atlantic coast to the port of Angra dos Reis.
days - a far cry from day-to-day life back home de leche cake before hopping on a night bus Ferry over to the stunning island of Ilha Grande.
in grey normality. Inhale the inspiration, feel the to Esteros del Iberá; the largest fresh water King-prawn kebab in one hand, coconut in the
exhillaration that'll sweep you up high leaving reserve in Argentina. Here’s your chance for other, you’ll be greeted by boats bobbing on the
you dangling in the air hoping you remembered some fantastic up-close moments next to Howler bay, stunning lush green mountainous backdrop,
to pack your parachute, or at least a spare monkeys, capybaras (giant guinea pigs), otters and a real chilled out vibe. There are over 100
set of undies. From the tango-tapping centre and caymans. (2B, 2L, 2D) beaches to choose from, so get your snorkelling
of Buenos Aires, across wildlife-central water shoes on and set out on the surf. Bliss.
reserves, to the incredible power and sights of Days 5-7: iguassu falls
the Iguassu Falls, roaming around in tropical Get your history hats out for a quick stop at Day 14: Rio de Janeiro
waters over and under the ocean, you’ll wind the fascinating Jesuit ruins near Posadas before Arrive into Rio – Brazil’s biggest ocean-side
up into Rio, aka party-goers paradise. Switch leaping over the Argentinean border and arriving jewel in the crown. According to the Carioca’s
your ipod onto 'samba shuffle', catch some rays, into glorious Brazil. Glimpse the Falls from all (local inhabitants of Rio) ‘God made the world
appreciate some deep fascinating culture and angles and walk right up to the Devil’s Throat for in six days, the seventh he devoted to Rio.’ It's
meet some super-friendly local people. Learn a shot at what Mother Nature looks like at her not difficult to see why they feel this way, with
how to dance the night away right on into dawn, angriest and most beautiful. Get wet and wild on the stunning white beaches of Copacabana and
witnessing a couple of spine-tingling sunrises a high powered boat under the spray of the Falls. Ipanema, sweeping views of the bright blue
across tropical bays. You'll wonder why it's taken ocean from way up high on Christ the Redeemer’s
you so long to get here and will be booking your Days 8-10: Paraty shoulders, or sunsets from atop the Sugar Loaf,
next trip back before you can say caipirinha! Palm trees and sandy shores make up the most reached by cable car. And under all that colour
part of Paraty – a colonial town with a relaxed and samba soul, it’s the perfect setting for a last
highlights friendly feel. Reach caffeine heaven at a Fazenda caipirinha with your travel buddies. Good times.
• Tango in Buenos Aires (coffee estate), or if you’re more of a cocktail-
• Eat Argentinean steak crazed monkey then have all your cachaça Day 15: Depart Rio de Janeiro
• Hang out with some wicked wildlife queries quibbled at a local distillery. How do we Time to leave. Samba into the sunset feeling high
• Frolic in Iguassu’s fabulous falls love thee Brazil? Let us count the ways… on life, inspired and invincible.
• P.A.R.T.Y in Paraty
• Snorkel in tropical paradise
• Boat out into hidden coves and beaches
DEPARTURES
• Rave it up in Rio START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 MAY 21 JUN 04 OCT 08 OCT 22 2011
• Shake your body to the samba JAN 17 JAN 31 JUN 11 JUN 25 OCT 29 NOV 12 JAN 21 FEB 04
• Chill-out with caipirinhas on Copacabana FEB 14
MAR 07
FEB 28
MAR 21
JUL 16
AUG 06
JUL 30
AUG 20
NOV 19
DEC 10
DEC 03
DEC 24
FEB 11
MAR 04
FEB 25
MAR 18
MAR 27 APR 10 AUG 27 SEP 10 DEC 31 JAN 14 MAR 25 APR 08
APR 23 MAY 07 SEP 17 OCT 01
Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires brazil
Accommodation: Hotels (13 nts), bus (1 nt) Transport: Public and private bus, ferry,
Arrive into Buenos Aires and step out into the taxi Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guides
Meals: All meals while in the Esteros del Iberá Budget: Allow USD280 for meals not
electric air of a city that hums to the sound of included Tour Code: GASABR paraguay
• Rio de Janeiro
Illha Grande / Paraty •
the Tango. Head down to the neighbourhoods São Paulo •
RIO CARNIVAL PACKAGES Iguassu Falls •
of colourful La Boca, boho-chic San Telmo,
fr $1,104 See pages 90-91.
uber-cool Palermo (you might spot a movie star) Argentina
and high-class, high-cultured Recoleta. Show off STAY LONGER IN BUENOS AIRES • Mercedes / Esteros del Iberiã
those twinkle toes on your first night out and Check out pages 90-91.
enjoy some excellent steak washed down well
with some fantastic Argie vino. • Buenos Aires
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79
southern
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
explorer
15 DAYS, $3,839 fr
surround the Osorno Volcano. Choose to get out Feb 21 Mar 07 Jun 13 Jun 27 Oct 03 Oct 17 Jan-02 Jan-16
Mar 07 Mar 21 Jun 27 Jul 11 Oct 17 Oct 31 Jan-16 Jan-30
to the lakeside villages of Frutillar and expand Mar 21 Apr 04 Jul 11 Jul 25 Oct 31 Nov 14 Jan-30 Feb-13
Paraty
Apr 04 Apr 18 Jul 25 Aug 08 Nov 14 Nov 28 Feb-13 Feb-27
your horizons just that little bit further. (2B)
Accommodation: Comfort hotels (14 nts) Transport: First-class buses, local flights, private paraguay
van Group Size: Max 15, avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guides chile São Paulo • • • Rio de Janeiro
Meals: 13 Breakfasts Budget: Allow USD420 for meals not included Tour Code: GASSR Iguassu Falls •
Days 5-6: Bariloche
One of the most beautiful spots in the whole go in reverse
wide....Argentina. You’ll feel like you’ve been Rio de Janeiro to Santiago
• Santiago
transported to a little bit of Alpine heaven, fr $3,839 Tour Code: GASRS • Buenos Aires
Argentina
complete with splendid background and epic stay longer in santiago
action-packed activities. Enjoy a lake cruise to Check out page 97.
• San Carlos de Bariloche
the Blest Arm on Lake Nahuel Huapi and try the • Puerto Varas
local chocolate – it's pretty special. (2B) stay longer in rio
Check out pages 84-85.
80
Arrive into Santiago at any time. Head out into • San Carlos de Bariloche
GO IN REVERSE • Puerto Varas
the city and explore. Stumble upon the Plaza de Buenos Aires to Santiago
Armas and check out the café culture, wall-to- fr $1,419 Tour Code: GAJBS
wall shops, parks and leafy suburbs.
STAY LONGER IN buenos aires
Check out page 90.
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81
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
• Amazon Rainforest Natal •
Recife •
brazil
Salvador •
• Pantanal
• Campo Grande
• Bonito
brazil
My favourite The Weather
For a country that's bigger in size
Useful Info
Mighty sporty types, the Brazilian's
experience
"Sunset from the top of Sugar Loaf after a truly epic carnival gave me the
than Australia, the climate hardly
varies and temperatures stay
pretty constant all year round. The
are ranked number one in the world
for their national soccer skills.
They'll be hosting the 2014 FIFA
most incredible goosebumps. There I was, standing overlooking one of the Amazon gets the most heat and World Cup as well as the 2016
best cities in the world after an immense week of unforgettable chaos and humidity - and in the October and Summer Olympics.
fun. You could still hear the music pumping. The beaches of Copacabana April wet season you'll still average
and Ipanema to my left, Christ the Redeemer up in front of me on a distant 5-6hrs of sun everyday. In the drier Useless Info
hill, and the lights of the marina beneath my feet..." Emma season you'll get more like 9-10hrs. You might be forgiven for thinking
Coasts are cooler due to the sea that Brazilian beauty is only skin
breeze and only in the far south will deep. They're probably the most
you feel a slight temperature drop. addicted nation in the world to
plastic surgery with celebrities and
Local Eats lesser mortals talking openly about
When you think of Brazil, think their facelifts, wrinkle reductions
tropical - you'll get almost every and bum tucks. Nip tuck to it!
type of fruit under the sun. Add
that to random sticks of cheese, try befor you fly
grilled with oregano on the Listen to some Samba and Bossa
beaches, acaci berry smoothies, Nova - the most famous Bossa
sensational buffet restaurants Nova track of all time is probably
(where you pay for your food by its 'The girl from Ipanema' from the
weight) and the essential coconut mid-1960s by Antonio Carlos
and caiphirinia. Feijoada - black Jobim. It's been covered numerous
beans, huge meat kebabs and deep times since. Feel that rhythm!
fried Coxinhas are also delicious.
82
wonders of
brazil
15 DAYS, $2,949 fr
Time to get tropical and samba it up Copacabana Days 3-4: Paraty Days 9-10: Bonito
style. In a vision of all things colourful and crazy, Time to P.A.R.T.Y in Paraty – another gloriously Bonito, as its ‘beautiful’ name implies, is a great
you’ll get drunk on the party atmosphere alone. tropical destination. You’ll want to stay place for nature lovers. Just outside the Pantanal
Become hopelessly addicted to the embodiment forever, lying under the naturally beautiful area, this is water and jungle country where
of South American soul that is the Brazilian surroundings, lazing on heavenly blue shores brilliantly coloured fish fill the area’s crystalline
spirit - setting you well on your way for the and drinking locally grown cachaça. See just rivers. Explore nearby underwater caves and
ultimate of unanticipated travel tales. Start how much you like it on a cachaça cocktail waterfalls, go rafting or snorkelling, or just relax
off in magnificent Rio – a city with a character cruise in and around the beaches and coves. by the river.
like no other and if you just so happen to time It’s also home to sugar cane and coffee,
your trip around February, make sure you book making it a caffeine addict's haven. Popular Days 11-13: Pantanal
in for Carnival and the greatest show on earth; with Brazilian nationals and foreigners alike Wildlife wackos: unite! Little-known outside
the Rio parade. Huge long lines of the city’s there's so much to see and do, so get out of South America, this huge wetland
samba schools moving to the music til dawn, there and get active! region (half the size of NSW) is one of the
dressed in outrageously awesome costumes and continent’s best places for catching life
ingeniously joined to the amazingly detailed and Days 5-8: Iguassu Falls / Night Bus that’s as wicked as it is wild. Special guests
perfectly constructed floats. Add all this on to Head inland from the coast on to the Foz do may include: cabybaras (giant guinea pigs),
the continuing topicality that lies in wait for you Iguaçu – gateway to the epic Iguassu Falls. Howler monkeys, caimans, Giant River otters,
further down the coast in the haven of coves Prepare for a two-sided border hop from Brazil anacondas, anteaters and great Jabiru storks.
and golden beaches, transporting you to a world to Argentina as you soak up the spray from both Ingenious impressionists will have a field day.
where mermaids do really exist and heaven is a countries. Daredevils can get close to the Falls (3B, 3L, 3D)
place on earth. Slap on the sunscreen, whip out on a wild and wet power-boat ride, taking in
those flower garlands and shades and groove the truly incredible power of Mother Nature as Day 14: Rio de Janeiro
to the rhythm of these life-loving people with a the torrents jet their way into the raging river Wrap up your sight-seeing and get out to party!
passion for partying. down into the vast canyon below. Higher than
Niagara and wider than Victoria Falls you’ll need Day 15: depart Rio de Janeiro
highlights a dentist appointment to wrench your jaw back Stuff your bag full of flip flops, bikinis and
• Marvel at Christ the Redeemer together by the time you get back home. football shirts and depart beaming like a super
• Boogie with a Brazilian bang bright bulb with a radically renewed spark.
• Laze in the sun on tropical islands
• Sail the Atlantic ocean blue
• Snorkel around idyllic islands
DEPARTURES
• Create cachaça based cocktails START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 MAY 15 MAY 29 OCT 02 OCT 16 2011
• Get wet and wild under Iguassu Falls JAN 23 FEB 06 JUN 12 JUN 26 NOV 06 NOV 20 JAN 22 FEB 05
• Get back to nature in the Pantanal FEB 20
MAR 06
MAR 06
MAR 20
JUL 10
AUG 07
JUL 24
AUG 21
DEC 11
DEC 24
DEC 25
JAN 07
FEB 12
MAR 09
FEB 26
MAR 23 brazil
• Make friends with monkeys APR 17 MAY 01 SEP 04 SEP 18 MAR 26 APR 09
• Pantanal
• Go coco crazy on Copacabana Accommodation: Hotels (9 nts), multi-share tented room with hammocks (3 nts),
• Campo Grande
night bus (2 nts) Transport: Public bus, night bus, internal flight Group Size: Max
15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guide while in the Pantanal • Bonito
Meals: All meals on Pantanal excursion Budget: Allow USD260 for meals not
Day 1: Arrive Rio de Janeiro included Tour Code: GAZWB
• Rio de Janeiro
Paraty •
Arrive in Rio at any time. Order a beer beachside, São Paulo •
Add on a sailing adventure Iguassu Falls •
take in the view, breathe in the sweet air, soak
Check out page 87.
up the sun and get supremely excited about the
next few days to come. RIO CARNIVAL PACKAGEs
See pages 84-85.
Day 2: Rio de Janeiro
stay longer in rIo
Tour round the city taking in the sensational
See pages 84-85.
views from Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf and
take a stroll in colonial Santa Teresa. Marvellous.
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83
brazil
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
Crossing
17 DAYS, $2,479 fr
rio de janeiro
fr $18 DORM, INC. BREAKFAST fr $22 DORM, inc. breakfast fr $26 DORM, inc. breakfast
fr $77 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $80 DOUBLE, inc. breakfast
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85
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
ANTONIO CARLOS JOBIM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: 15km
april 2010
rio boat show
CORCOVADO SUGARLOAF
(CHRIST THE REDEEMER STATUE) MOUNTAIN
June 13 - 29, 2010
Rio bonfire and fireworks festival
TIJUCA
NATIONAL PARK COPACABANA June 27, 2010
LAGOA RODRIGO 1 4
DE FREITAS rio marathon
3
2 6 September 7, 2010
5
IPANEMA Brazil Independence day
fr $150 SINGLE, inc. breakfast fr $196 SINGLE, inc. breakfast fr $335 SINGLE, INC. BREAKFAST
fr $150 TWIN/DOUBLE, inc. breakfast fr $217 TWIN/DOUBLE, inc. breakfast fr $335 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST
Football Game at
Maracana Stadium surf expedition Favela funk party
half Day, fr $57 half Day, fr $82 fr$48
Experience the passion of a soccer derby in the After football and beach volleyball, surfing is Make yourself a caipirinha, don your dancing
infamous Maracana stadium. Join the locals as the third popular sport in Rio. With more than shoes and groove to your heart's content at one
they beat their drums and blow their trumpets in 25 beaches in Rio, for good waves to practice of Rio's finest clubs. Feel like a true Carioca -
support of their local team. You'll soon know why it's the perfect opportunity to grab a board and dance, party and drink with the locals. This little
Brazil has won the world cup an amazing five head out there. Whether your an old pro or a beauty includes transport and entry to the club.
times. You can't escape the fever! STA540 complete novice, get out on those waves! STA542 Wiggle that booty! STA544
86
beaches
of brazil
misti chilli hostel, paraty alpha hostel, salvador che lagarto, ilha grande
A great beachfront location with an atmosphere A 'home away from home' in a safe area that still Loud, popular and heaving with travellers, this
that's calm and cool. Chill out in a hammock, feel has a social and lively atmosphere. There's a big hostel is right on the unspoilt beach and close to
the breeze and smell the ocean air. All rooms kitchen, TV lounge and great games area. Rooms town. Lounge on the balconies, sunbathe in the
have en suite bathrooms, female dorms are have fans, lockers and environmentally-friendly garden and party in the bar til dawn. There's also
available and there's an awesome TV room. STA547 solar-heated showers. STA548 internet, a kitchen and TV lounge. STA545
fr $15 DORM, INC. BREAKFAST fr $20 DORM, INC. BREAKFAST fr $22 DORM, INC. BREAKFAST
fr $61 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $50 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $84 DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST
fr $31 DORM, INC. BREAKFAST fr $129 SINGLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $191 SINGLE , INC. BREAKFAST
fr $63 DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $129 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $238 DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST
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87
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
Sailing Adventure
7 DAYS, $1,829 fr
• Sail exotic landscape and pass mountains dipping into the sea
• Cruise into Paraty - a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Snorkel and slip into inviting blue-green waters
• Get involved on the workings of the boat
• See amazing flora and fauna at the Mamanguá Ecological Reserve
salvador
7 DAYS, $120 fr DORM, INC. BREAKFAST
Rumoured to have an even better Carnival scene than Rio, Salvador has
earned the name ‘Capital of Joy’ which makes it shoot up on the radar of
DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH top destinations to visit if you find yourself down Brazil way. Located in the
2010 FEB 28 MAR 06 NOV 28 DEC 04
JAN 17 JAN 23 MAR 14 MAR 20 DEC 18 DEC 25
northern state of Bahia – otherwise known as the ‘Land of the drum’ you’ll
FEB 07 FEB 13 NOV 07 NOV 13 be guaranteed some bopping nights out, painting the town a rainbow of
Accommodation: Single and double berths (multi-share) brazil colours and soaking in some true Brazilian beats. It also pumps in a whole
(6 nts) Transport: 120 ft Brazilian Tall Ship Tocorimé and
inflatable shore boat Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12
Rio de Janeiro •
lot of feel-good African influences – you’ll notice them in the food (think
Group Leader: Captain, first mate, engineer, deck hands,
cook, passenger liaison Meals: All meals while on board • Ilha Grande delicious spicy seafood…mmm), music scene, art and architecture. As soon
Budget: Allow USD100 for extras not included, (i.e. alcoholic Paraty •
beverages) Tour Code: GAZVRPT as you arrive you'll want to head out into the surf, dive into the Atlantic
Ocean and head up into the rolling hills for some sensational hiking. Witness
go in reverse
the stunning views of the city below and then head back into town and relax
Paraty - Rio Tour Code: GAZVPRT
on the beach. Wander the city centre and sit out at the cafés dotted along
the pretty harbour. You won’t want to stay here for a week – you’ll want to
set up camp and call it home. Price includes accommodation only.
88
Iguassu Falls •
Córdoba •
Rosario •
• Mendoza • Buenos Aires
argentina
• Bahia Blanca
argentina
My favourite The Weather
Gloriously hot from November
Useful Info
Think things have been bad for
experience
"As soon as I stepped into Buenos Aires I knew I was at home. The
to March, chilly over June throuh
to August (to the Argentineans'
disgust) you'll probably still be
us recently? The Argentineans
have known it worse - surviving a
deep recession and then complete
cosmopolitan influences hit me straight away – I felt like I was walking the wearing t-shirts while they're all economic collapse in 2001, they
boulevards of Milan, Paris, New York or London - but all rolled into one and wrapped up in scarves. Further saw their money devalued to be
filled with unmistakable South American seduction. The atmosphere of the south in Patagonia it's reminiscent worth a mere third of what it was,
tango halls and bustling San Telmo market was brilliant. Not to mention the of Tassie - wetter and much cooler. practically overnight. So be kind and
nightlife – I don’t think I’ve ever had so much fun!" Emily think before you excitedly exclaim
Local grub how cheap it is compared to home.
Meat fiends will be in aboslute Argento means silver in Spanish.
heaven - Bife de Chorizo -
succulent and juicy sirloin steak is Useless Info
a must, accompanied by chimichurri The stadium home to La Boca - one
sauce and a puré mixto (mixed of Argentina's soccer teams is more
mash). There are strong Italian commonly known as La Bombonera
influences too, meaning pasta - or chocolate box. Whats more, the
and pizza are the stuff of dreams. city's main stretch of road, the nine
Definitely try the sickly sweet dulce de Julio, is the widest boulevard in
de leche - pumped into all sorts the world spanning 110m.
of puddings, alfajores and the
addictive medialunas (croissants, try before you fly.
but better). Wash it all down with Watch 'The Motorcyle Diaries' a
some excellent Argie wine: try biopic film that tells the story of
red Malbec or Bonarda and white a young Che Guevara on his 1952
Torrontes or Chardonnay. journey across South America.
89
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
iguassu falls
STAysimple STAysmart
buenos aires
fr $15 DORM, INC. BREAKFAST fr $16 DORM, INC. BREAKFAST fr $22 DORM, INC. BREAKFAST
fr $60 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $68 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $75 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST
¡Hola! Want to combine city sightseeing with a Perfect if you don't have much time - you'll be
bit of Spanish lingo learning? Step away from picked up from the airport and whipped into a
boring classrooms and onto this beautiful city's Tango frenzy. Stay at the stylish Hostel Suites
streets for a lesson/tour with a difference. Obelisco and spend a night amongst friends
Explore different neighbourhoods and get under and locals at Boca Tango, a colourful show that
the skin of an Argentine's way of life. More than recreates the lifestyle of city dwellers. Enjoy
words; you'll learn about the people, culture and spectacular dancing and music while you munch
history stopping at coffee shops along the way. on a delicious three course meal.
Days 1,2,3 of the course are held between 14:00-17:00 hours. Day 4 is held over Accommodation: Hostel (2n) Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner Other Inclusions: Airport
dinner at a local restaurant (dinner not included) from 20:00 to 23:00 hours. and tango show transfers, 1 welcome drink , Boca Tango show Tour Code: STA560
Tour Code: STA559
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91
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
MINISTRO PISTARINI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: 30km
PALERMO
april, 2010
6
BAFICI - International indie film fest
RETIRO
STATION
RECOLETA august 1-30, 2010
World Tango Championships
LA BOCA
E
4 The clan house B&B 5 Castelar hotel and spa 6 plaza elegance unique hotel
Step inside a house full of cosy, bright colours Castelar has seen it all and knows how to please. Elegance by name, elegant by nature. The rooms
and quirky antique furniture. There's a fully Famous for its superb spa, this is one place you'll are designed to impress with their stylish and
functional kitchen, free internet and WiFi, 24hr want to spoil yourself. Turkish and Finnish saunas exclusive furnishings. The hotel's fine-dining
tea and coffee, and buffet breakfast til 12pm. Sit are free for guests, and there's also a gym, Zen restaurant serves up creative signature cuisine
out on the terrace and relax in the lounge. STA561 garden, restaurant, WiFi and cable. STA562 and mouth-watering Argentinian dishes. STA563
fr $49 SINGLE , INC. BREAKFAST fr $167 SINGLE , INC. BREAKFAST fr $92 SINGLE, INC. BREAKFAST
fr $53 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $167 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $96 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST
patagonia
el calafate ushuaia - peninsula
& torres the end of valdes
del paine the world whales & penguins
5 days, fr $495 3 days, fr $371 4 days, fr $356
Start & Finish: el calafate Start & Finish: ushuaia Start & Finish: Puerto Madryn
Departs: Daily Departs: daily Departs: daily
• 4 nights accommodation in El Calafate • 2 nights accommodation in Ushuaia • 3 nts. accommodation in Puerto Madryn
• Daily breakfast • Daily breakfast and lunch on Day 2 • 2 breakfasts
• Airport or bus station pick up • Airport or bus station pick up • Airport or bus station pick up
• Full day trip to Perito Moreno Glacier • Full day trip to Tierra del Fuego • Peninsula Valdes penguin rockery
• Full day trip to Torres Del Paine • Take a boat trip into the Beagle Channel • Punta Tombo penguin rockery
• Free day to enjoy El Calafate
Tierra del Fuego is the southern-most tip of the Check out amazing Peninsula Valdés a.k.a. 'The
On the other side of the Andes, the spectacular Americas and as close as civilisation has got to Sanctuary of Nature' - where magnificent marine
and majestic Torres del Paine National Park the snowy desert of Antarctica. This three-day creatures such as Orcas, Southern Right whales,
is just waiting to be explored. Its imposing adventure allows you to explore Argentina's Elephant seals, Sea lions and the Magellan
peaks form a dramatic background to its vast most valued wildlife and immerse yourself in an penguin swim in serenity. This trip combines
coloured lakes and hostile vegetation. This ancient culture. Enjoy treks, boat trips, canoe the local earthly attractions with full day visits
superb package offers you the chance to explore tours and the nightly freedom to make your trip to the Punta Tombo penguin rockery, Peninsula
Perito Moreno Glacier. You'll hike and truck your anything you want it to be! STA569 Valdés and Puerto Piramides. You'll also have
way through some startling scenery and you'll the pleasure of staying in the quintessential
Please note: On day 2, the full day excursion of trekking and canoeing in the Tierra
witness some of the most amazing wildlife you del Fuego National Park is only guaranteed to operate from 3rd October until 10th Argentinian town of Puerto Madryn. STA570
April each year. During the winter this is not possible.
are likely to see in your life. All that fresh air is Please note: Punta Tombo can only be visited between mid-September and
mid-April. During the rest of the year, the tour will set out for Gaiman and Trelew,
likely to make you sleepy - and you'll have a very Choose from three accommodation options: with a beach-stop at Playa Unión and Port Rawson - where you can appreciate
spectacular coastal scenery and wildlife.
comfy bed to return to in the evening. STA568
STAysimple fr $371 Choose from three accommodation options:
Choose from three accommodation options: Mixed dorms at the 'Free Style Hostel' or similar.
STAysimple fr $356
STAysimple fr $495 STAysmart fr $688 El Gualicho Hostel, Posada del Catalejo; Hostel
Calafate Hostel, Hostel del Glaciar Libertador or Hosteria Mirabeagle, Hosteria Macondo, Che Patagonia or Hostel Viajeros
similar depending on availability. Hosteria Peninsula Antartica or similar.
STAysmart fr $1,173
STAysmart fr $1,240 STAystylish fr $845 Villa Piren, Hosteria Las Maras, Hotel Tolosa,
Patagonia Queen, Kalken, Hosteria Rincon de los Luxury rooms in the decadent Mil819 or Hotel Solar de la Costa or Hotel Bahia Nueva.
Suenos or similar depending on availability. Tierra de Leyendas.
STAystylish fr $2,046
STAystylish fr $2,014 Exclusive boutique accommodation at Territorio
Esplendor Calafate or Design Suites. Hotel or similar depending on availability.
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93
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
patagonia
experience
11 DAYS, $2,419 fr
Latin America ain’t all about sexy salsa dancing, Day 1: Arrive Ushuaia Days 6-9: Torres del Paine N.P.
steamy jungle expeditions, moonlight mojitos Arrive in Ushuaia at any time. Travel south across the border into Chile to the
and oversized sombreros. Down on the southern spectacular Torres del Paine National Park. Here,
tip of the continent stretching across both Chile Days 2-3: El Chaltén / Glacier N.P. the landscape conforms to every stereotype of
and Argentina lies an icy wilderness unrivalled Fly south over lofty peaks to the town of El the rough beauty of Patagonia: breathtaking
in its sheer dramatic beauty. Patagonia is the Calafate and transfer on to El Chalten. From views of the three pink granite towers, French
continent’s true treasure and is ideal for those your base in El Chaltén you'll take a full-day hike Valley and its glaciers, as well as the region’s
who want a travelling experience stripped naked amongst the spiralling granite peaks of Glacier unique wildlife such as vicuña, rheas and
of clichés, commonality and any kind of uncouth National Park's northern tip - also home to the Patagonian hares. Travel by boat on Lake Pehoe
interference from commercialism. Everything third largest ice field on earth. Hike to Laguna amongst the icebergs of Grey Glacier. You can
down here is nothing short of magnificent. You’ll de Los Tres to fully appreciate majestic Cerro even hike on the glacier itself. (2B, 2L, 2D)
enter a trance like state of virtual bliss as you Fitzroy/Chaltén (3441m) and to Laguna Torre for
gaze at the panoramic views from the slopes of inspiring Patagonian views. Day 10: Ushuaia
behemothic snow shrouded mountains. You’ll be Back to Ushuaia for one last night on the town.
awestruck as you watch the enormous chunks of Days 4-5: El Calafate / Moreno Glacier
ice drop from the Perito Moreno Glacier into the Return to El Calafate, on the shores of Lago Day 11: Depart Ushuaia
deep green waters below. You’ll feel like you’re Argentino. A spectacular drive west through Your Patagonian adventure finishes on Day 11.
wandering around a deserted heaven as you lofty mountain peaks takes you to the Moreno
hike past the resplendent scenery of Torres del Glacier, within Glacier National Park. During the
Paine National Park, while reclusive condors and trip you may spot condors, rheas, eagles or
searching eagles swoop down in search of their flamingos - but the real star of the day is the
unfortunate prey. You’ll be forgiven for feeling a glacier itself, located at the southern terminus of
joyful kind of fear as you travel by boat amongst Glacier National Park. Sliding down from atop the
the intimidating icebergs of Grey Glacier. Over 11 southern continental ice field, Moreno's 60m wall
days you’ll come to realise how fortunate you are of ice sporadically chokes off the narrow Canal
to be experiencing Patagonia. de los Tempanos (Channel of Ice Bergs) creating
a natural ice dam, which eventually explodes in a
dynamic display of force.
highlights
• See the third largest ice field on earth
• Enjoy the views from Laguna Los Tres
DEPARTURES
• Witness the falling ice of Moreno Glacier START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 FEB 21 MAR 03 OCT 17 OCT 27 2011
• Spot condors, eagles and flamingos JAN 10 JAN 20 MAR 07 MAR 17 NOV 14 NOV 24 JAN 09 JAN 19
• Hike between ethereal granite towers JAN 24
FEB 07
FEB 03
FEB 17
MAR 21
APR 04
MAR 31
APR 14
DEC 12 DEC 22 FEB 13
MAR 06
FEB 23
MAR 16
• Marvel at unique indigenous animals
Accommodation: Simple hotels (8 nts) - may be multi-share, camping (2 nts)
• Cruise among the icebergs of Lake Pehoe Transport: Local buses, plane, hiking Group Size: Max 12, Avg 8 Group Leader: Tour
Leader throughout, local guides Meals: Meals included while camping in Torres del
• Enjoy a lively night out in Ushuaia Paine Budget: Allow USD200 for meals not included Tour Code: GASAPP
chile
• Ushuaia
94
end of
the earth
15 DAYS, $2,979 fr
DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 MAR 01 MAR 15 NOV 13 NOV 27 JAN 10 JAN 24 • Buenos Aires
JAN 02 JAN 16 MAR 06 MAR 20 NOV 15 NOV 29 JAN 15 JAN 29 chile
JAN 04 JAN 18 MAR 08 MAR 22 NOV 20 DEC 04 JAN 17 JAN 31 argentina
JAN 09 JAN 23 MAR 13 MAR 27 NOV 22 DEC 06 JAN 22 FEB 05
JAN 11 JAN 25 MAR 15 MAR 29 NOV 27 DEC 11 JAN 24 FEB 07
JAN 16 JAN 30 MAR 20 APR 03 NOV 29 DEC 13 JAN 29 FEB 12
JAN 18 FEB 01 MAR 22 APR 05 DEC 04 DEC 18 JAN 31 FEB 14
JAN 23 FEB 06 MAR 27 APR 10 DEC 12 DEC 20 FEB 05 FEB 19
JAN 25 FEB 08 MAR 29 APR 12 DEC 11 DEC 25 FEB 07 FEB 21
JAN 30 FEB 13 APR 03 APR 17 DEC 13 DEC 27 FEB 12 FEB 26
FEB 01 FEB 15 OCT 16 OCT 30 DEC 18 JAN 01 FEB 14 FEB 28
FEB 06 FEB 20 OCT 18 NOV 01 DEC 20 JAN 03 FEB 19 MAR 05
FEB 08 FEB 22 OCT 23 NOV 06 DEC 25 JAN 08 FEB 21 MAR 07
FEB 13 FEB 27 OCT 25 NOV 08 DEC 27 JAN 10 FEB 26 MAR 12
FEB 15 MAR 01 OCT 30 NOV 13 2011 FEB 28 MAR 14
FEB 20 MAR 06 NOV 01 NOV 15 JAN 01 JAN 15 MAR 05 MAR 19
FEB 22 MAR 08 NOV 06 NOV 20 JAN 03 JAN 17 MAR 07 MAR 21
FEB 27 MAR 13 NOV 08 NOV 22 JAN 08 JAN 22 MAR 12 MAR 26
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
Arica •
95
Calama •
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
chile
Santiago •
Puerto Varas •
Currency: PESO
Population: 17 MILLION
Price of a beer: $2.50
Torres del Paine •
Punta Arenas •
chile
My favourite The Weather
Chile's remarkable shape makes
Useful Info
Chilean history is dominated by 'The
experience
"The incredible sights of some of southern Chile's landscape was an
weather forecasting rather
tricky. Santiago and the central
area boasts a Mediterranean
Liberator' - Bernardo O'Higgins. He
defeated the Spanish in 1817 and
won independence for his country.
experience like no other. Trekking through the Torres del Paine National style climate, with hot summers You'll see his strange name (he was
Park with the huge great granite pillars dominating the landscape in the (December - March) and short, cool the illegitimate son of an Irishman)
distance was spectacular. You really felt out in the wilderness and realised winters (June - September). The emblazoned across street signs and
how small we are in this big wide world full of wonderful scenery. You have wonders of the south, like Torres monuments throughout the country.
to go there, photos just don't do it justice..." Sarah del Paine and the Lakes District, are
best explored in the summer - in Useless Info
some cases this is the only time The town of Calama in the Atacama
you can venture down there. In Desert has never experienced any
the far north of the country, the kind of rainfall. It is officially the
Atacama Desert is accesible all year driest place on Earth. You should be
round - just make sure you prepare safe to leave your raincoat at home.
for extremes of hot and cold in the
summer between day and night. try before you flY
The 2004 film 'Machuca' is centred
Local grub around the events before the brutal
Chile is dominated by its elongated 1973 revolution led by General
Pacific coastline - which means Augusto Pinochet. Told from the
its seafood is particularly special. perspective of two young boys -
Make sure you sample the deep both from different sides of the
fried conger eel, parmesan cheese social spectrum - you'll learn about
raisor clams, abalone bread pudding the political passions that still
and the delicious sea squirts. resonate in Chile today.
96
the atacama
crossing
20 DAYS, $1,709 fr
la paz - santiago
needless to say you’ll be totally spell-bound by JAN 30 FEB 18 MAY 21 JUN 09 AUG 24 SEP 12 JAN 08 JAN 27 bolivia
FEB 06 FEB 25 MAY 26 JUN 14 SEP 02 SEP 21 JAN 16 FEB 04
the enchanting Witches’ Market. FEB 13 MAR 04 JUN 04 JUN 23 SEP 11 SEP 30 FEB 01 FEB 20
FEB 20 MAR 11 JUN 13 JUL 02 SEP 21 OCT 10 FEB 16 MAR 07 La Paz •
FEB 27 MAR 18 JUN 18 JUL 07 OCT 02 OCT 21 FEB 25 MAR 16 • Cochabamba
MAR 08 MAR 27 JUL 01 JUL 20 OCT 13 NOV 01 MAR 28 APR 16 Potosí • • Sucre
Days 3-4: Cochabamba / Nightbus MAR 13 APR 01 JUL 07 JUL 26 OCT 27 NOV 15 Uyuni •
MAR 23 APR 11 JUL 15 AUG 03 NOV 07 NOV 26
No sign of the Loch Ness monster here – but Salt Lakes •
Accommodation: Simple hotels (17 nts), night buses (2 nts) Transport: Public bus, San Pedro de Atacama •
staying in the highlands, you’ll head south to 4WD truck Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local
Antofagasta •
Cochabamba, famous for its spring-like climate guides Meals: All meals on the desert crossing excursion Budget: Allow USD300 for
meals not included Tour Code: GAJLS chile
and Chicha; a fermented drink made from maize.
Fact-finders will love exploring the museums and go in reverse
La Serena •
having a run around the other interesting sights Santiago - La Paz fr $1,709 Tour Code: GAJSL
Santiago •
of this pretty city. Then snore your way to Sucre.
STAY LONGER IN SANTIAGO
Check out page 97.
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97
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
santiago
& south
hop-on
hop-off chile
From the bone dry deserts, deserted beaches • Get away from the tourist trail to the
and stunning national parks of the North to the places only the locals know about.
alpine utopias, mystical forests and volcanic
landscapes of the South - Chile has so much • All of the guides speak English and
going on over such a massive area. So the Spanish. They will provide you with as
biggest problem is - how the heck do you get much (or as little) help as you require.
from one place to another and get off the beaten
track?... We have the answer. • Your pass allows you to start and finish
your trip wherever you want, with no time
Presenting a transport network specially limit to complete your chosen route.
designed to meet the needs of independent
travellers, you can get off the bus at any of the • The lovely buses seat up to 17 people,
places along the route and catch another bus a with enough room for all your bags.
few days later. You will have the freedom to do
your own thing and spend as much time as you • Accommodation is not included, but you
like at all the places along the route. will be taken to the best hostels in town.
lake chile
district
• Santiago
Pichilemu •
• Balduzzi Winery
Santa Cruz •
Chillán • • Salto el Laja Waterfall
7 DAYS, $301 fr
• Pucon Villarrica Lake
& Volcano
Valdivia •
departs santiago every thursday all
year round & sundays, feb-mar only • Puerto Varas
• Llanquihue Lake
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
99
& CHILE
BRAZIL, ARGENTINA
atacama
desert
10 DAYS, $444 fr
drive to nearby Caldera to have a look around, The morning is free to explore, while in the
Fray Jorge N.P. •
go to the post office, supermarket and internet afternoon the bus will take you to the pre-
cafe. In the evening enjoy a communal BBQ hispanic ruins of the village of Tulor. You'll
• Santiago
(asado), prepared by the legendary cook-drivers. explore some eerie salt caves before viewing the
spectacular sunset from Valle de la Luna over the
Day 4: BAHIA INGLESA TO ANTOFAGASTA nearby volcanoes.
Cross the driest part of the Atacama Desert
where some meteorological stations have not Day 7: SAN PEDRO TO
registered any rain in over 50 years. During the PAN DE AZUCAR NATIONAL PARK
day you'll stop at the creepy cemetery of Oficina After an early departure to pick up provisions
Alemania, an old nitrate mining operation. You'll in Calama, you'll stop at the ghost town of
also make a stop at the prominent Mano del Chacabuco. Once a prosperous nitrate mining Day 10: VICUÑA TO SANTIAGO
Desierto (Hand of the Desert) sculpture. Just town and later a prison camp during the Leave Vicuña and visit the cloud-hidden Fray
north of Antofagasta, you'll watch the sun set Pinochet dictatorship, it is completely abandoned Jorge National Park. This unique pocket of
behind Monumento Natural La Portada, the huge now. Continue on to the Pan de Azucar National rain forest in the coastal highland area is also
arched shaped rock formation that sits in the Park where you'll spend the night, either camping in the middle of the desert! In addition to the
ocean. Return to Antofagasta for the night. on the beach or staying in cabin. exuberant flora, there are several rare species of
mammals, reptiles and bird life, unique to Chile.
Day 5: ANTOFAGASTA TO Day 8: PAN DE AZUCAR N.P. TO VICUÑA You'll arrive in Santiago several hours later.
SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA In the morning you'll have time to explore the
Head north for about 70 km to Baquedano and secluded beaches of the National Park before 1 day pass: fr $115
visit the 19th century steam engine cemetery. driving the 580 km to the Elqui Valley. You will 2 day pass: fr $180
From here you'll leave the motorway onto a salt- be based in Vicuña for the next two nights. 3 day pass: fr $229
paved road, running over the Tropic of Capricorn 4 day pass: fr $264
until you see the Salar de Atacama. Plenty of Day 9: DAY IN THE ELQUI VALLEY 5 day pass: fr $294
time is available for taking pictures here. From Vicuña you'll drive to Pisco Elqui where 6 day pass: fr $322
After crossing the Salar, you'll get to the small inexpensive horseback riding can be arranged. 7 day pass: fr $353
oasis village of Peine. Relax in the refreshing You'll also visit a Pisco distillery. At night 8 day pass: fr $383
rock pools and continue to the Reserva Nacional marvel at the astonishingly clear skies from the 9 day pass: fr $413
los Flamencos. Watch the sunset over the Laguna Mamalluca Observatory. Experience a guided 10 day pass: fr $444
Chaxa - a flamingo breeding site, before heading astronomy tour that includes a telescopic
to San Pedro de Atacama. observation of the night skies.
100
central
america
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101
top 6
CENTRAL AMERICA
Amazing
Experiences
2
6
102
• Mexico City
• Chetumal
• Puebla
• Belize City
San Ignacio • • Caye Caulker
Palenque • belize
• Oaxaca • Utila Bay Islands
Monte Albán • • San Cristobal • Flores
Tuxtla Gutierrez • de las Casas • La Ceiba
• Rio Dulce
guatemala honduras
Panajachel • • Copán • Tegucigalpa
Antigua • • Guatemala
el salvador nicaragua
• Granada
• Ometepe Island
these trips are built back to back with segment 2: mayan sun segment 4: panama experience
each other, so choose to travel one 16 DAYS, cancun to antigua 14 DAYS, san jose to panama city
segment or piece a few together to fr $1,239 see page 103 Tour Code: GACMCA fr $1,119 Tour Code: GACRSP
create your perfect central american Over the next few weeks, make your way through Cross into Costa Rica known for its beautiful
journey from anywhere you like! Belize, stopping at your own paradise island flora and fauna. Trek through the cloud forest
of Caye Caulker where the motto is 'go slow'. and bird watch, horseride or mountain bike over
segment 1: mexican ancient civilisation Get in some top snorkelling and diving before the impressive terrain. You'll witness infinite
15 DAYS, mexico city to cancun heading further south into Guatemala. Visit the numbers of mammals, plants and birds. Try all
Fr $1,159 see page 120 Tour Code: GAMCM Tikal ruins, colourful town of Flores on Lake the outdoor activities and groove to the Calypso
Start off in the metropolis that is Mexico City (or Petén Itzá and distinguish the contrasting sides beat, passing Santa Clara on the Pacific coast,
D.F as it's known to the locals) and head down of the Caribbean coast, colonial Antigua and checking out the world famous canal and arriving
through the pretty towns of Puebla and Oaxaca, Chichicastenango - another Mayan centre. into the capital - Panama city.
stopping at the markets and meeting the local
people. Check out the Zapotec ruins of Monte segment 3: volcano trail
Alban, the highland town of San Cristobál and 17 DAYS, antigua to san jose our favourites
the Mayan site of Palenque deep in the jungle, fr $1,419 see page 104 Tour Code: GAJSG
before winding up through the Yucután where Step into Honduras and soak in the beauty. cancun - san jose
you'll get the chance to visit impressive Chichén Plunge into the crystal clear waters on the island seGMENTS 2 & 3 or vice versa
fr $2,419 Tour Code: GAJSC
Itzá and colonial Merida. Finish this segment of Utila and explore the temples and statues of
perfectly by lying on the idyllic Caribbean coast Copán. In Nicaragua find epic natural beauty, mexico city - san jose
complete with stunning bright blue warm sea and lovely locals and a quaint colonial charm mixed in seGMENTS 1, 2 & 3 or vice versa
dazzling white sand. with volcanic temperament and serene lakes. fr $3,539 Tour Code: GAJXS
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
103
mayan sun
CENTRAL AMERICA
16 DAYS, $1,239 fr
Cancún - Antigua
volcano
trail
17 DAYS, $1,419 fr Day 1: Arrive San José Days 8-10: Granada
Arrive in San José at any time - and get ready! Granada’s colonial charm is complimented by the
san José - antigua surrounding active volcanoes and lakes, making
Days 2-3: La Fortuna / Arenal day trips a fun and easy option. Hike, cruise, or
This 17 day epic adventure to the hot spots of La Fortuna, at the foot of Arenal Volcano, is just explore the city’s markets and museums.
Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica an excellent base for exploration. You'll take
will make you erupt with joy. This scintillating an unforgettable night hike around the base of Day 11: Tegucigalpa
swathe of Central America bubbles with bountiful the volcano to see the top glowing an eerie red, After a day of Nicaraguan and Honduran bus
vivacity – turn another corner and see a new, accompanied by a soundtrack of monkeys. Try surfing, you'll have the evening to check out
outlandish but unquestionably beautiful example a full day of whitewater rafting, go horseback Honduras' capital city, Tegucigalpa.
of life. As you’re hiking through sticky rainforest, riding, tour the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, or
you may well come face to face with a monkey relax and soak in the nearby hot springs. Days 12-14: Utila, The Bay Islands
or three. As you walk through the cool, cloud A scuba diving haven, Utila is a Caribbean-style
forests around Monteverde, catch a glimpse Days 4-5: Monteverde, Costa Rica island with a lively community atmosphere.
of the resplendent Quetzal, one of the most Travelling into the cool cloud forest and Boasting the second largest barrier reef in the
beautiful and elusive birds in the world. As you rainforests of Monteverde gives you a glimpse world, the crystal blue waters invite swimming,
cross Lake Nicaragua keep your eyes peeled for of the lush ecosystems of Costa Rica. Spend diving and snorkelling. Alternatively, just lie back
the world’s only species of freshwater shark. As two days exploring Monteverde and the Forest and relax on the beautiful white sand beaches.
you wander the grandiose streets of Granada Reserve, truly a nature lover's paradise. Optional
watch the ways of the fascinating people that activities include the Sky Walk (a series of Day 15: Copán
call this beautiful city their home. And as you suspension bridges through the jungle canopy), a Walk through Copán's grassy plazas and gaze at
scuba dive or snorkel through the aquamarine butterfly garden and a thrilling canopy zip line. the intricately carved and decorated monuments
waters around the second largest barrier reef and statues. Huge carved faces eerily stare at
in the world, prepare for encounters with all Days 6-7: Ometepe, Nicaragua you from the ancient walls.
kinds of marine life. Add to all of this the ever Cross Lake Nicaragua by ferry and arrive at
grumbling, the ever truculent and the ever Ometepe Island. Two towering volcanoes Day 16: Antigua
intriguing presence of many big, scary volcanoes. dominate the landscape. Take an optional hike The former capital of Guatemala - enjoy the
up Maderas Volcano or just enjoy the beach and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
highlights jungle swimming hole. The wildlife on this island
• Take a night hike around Arenal Volcano is abundant and includes several species of Day 17: Depart Antigua
• Inhale the mountain air of Monteverde monkeys and green parrots. Things finish up on Day 17. Say your goodbyes.
• Check out the weird wildlife of Ometepe
• Wander the historic streets of Granada
• Check out the capital city of Tegucigalpa
DEPARTURES
• Snorkel the warm waters of Utila START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 APR 28 MAY 14 AUG 25 SEP 10 DEC 22 JAN 07
• Wander the fascinating ruins of Copan JAN 06 JAN 22 MAY 05 MAY 21 SEP 01 SEP 17 DEC 29 JAN 14
• Hit the vibrant nightlife of Antigua JAN 13
JAN 20
JAN 29
FEB 05
MAY 12
MAY 19
MAY 28
JUN 04
SEP 08
SEP 15
SEP 24
OCT 01
2011
JAN 05 JAN 21
JAN 27 FEB 12 MAY 26 JUN 11 SEP 22 OCT 08 JAN 12 JAN 28
FEB 03 FEB 19 JUN 02 JUN 18 SEP 29 OCT 15 JAN 19 FEB 04
FEB 10 FEB 26 JUN 09 JUN 25 OCT 06 OCT 22 JAN 26 FEB 11
FEB 17 MAR 05 JUN 16 JUL 02 OCT 13 OCT 29 FEB 02 FEB 18 • Utila Bay Islands
FEB 24 MAR 12 JUN 23 JUL 09 OCT 20 NOV 05 FEB 09 FEB 25 • La Ceiba
MAR 03 MAR 19 JUN 30 JUL 16 OCT 27 NOV 12 FEB 16 MAR 04
guatemala honduras
MAR 10 MAR 26 JUL 07 JUL 23 NOV 03 NOV 19 FEB 23 MAR 11
MAR 17 APR 02 JUL 14 JUL 30 NOV 10 NOV 26 MAR 02 MAR 18
• Copán • Tegucigalpa
MAR 24 APR 09 JUL 21 AUG 06 NOV 17 DEC 03 MAR 09 MAR 25 • Antigua
MAR 31 APR 16 JUL 28 AUG 13 NOV 24 DEC 10 MAR 16 APR 01 • Guatemala
APR 07 APR 23 AUG 04 AUG 20 DEC 01 DEC 17 MAR 23 APR 08 nicaragua
APR 14 APR 30 AUG 11 AUG 27 DEC 08 DEC 24 MAR 30 APR 15
APR 21 MAY 07 AUG 18 SEP 03 DEC 15 DEC 31
• Granada
Ometepe Island •
Accommodation: Simple hotels - may be multi-share (16 nts) Transport: Public bus,
boat, van, taxi Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout • La Fortuna/Arenal
Meals: No meals included Budget: Allow USD350 for meals not included Tour Monteverde •
Code: GAJSG San Jose • costa rica
go in reverse
Antigua - San Jose fr $1,419 Tour Code: GAJGS
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
105
volcano
CENTRAL AMERICA
adventure
21 DAYS, $2,089 fr
Walk through grassy plazas filled with intricately MAR 30 APR 19 AUG 10 AUG 30 2011
APR 27 MAY 17 AUG 31 SEP 20 JAN 04 JAN 24
carved and decorated monuments, statues and
Accommodation: Hotels and beach hotels (20 nts) Transport: Taxis, public bus, • Utila Bay Islands
staircases at the unique Mayan ruins of Copán. van, ferry, internal flight Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader
throughout, local guides Meals: No meals included Budget: Allow USD500 for meals
Huge carved faces stare at you from ancient not included Tour Code: GACGAS guatemala honduras
walls and bring the place eerily to life. • Copán • Tegucigalpa
• Antigua
go in reverse
nicaragua
San Jose - Antigua fr $2,089 Tour Code: GACRSA
Days 5-7: Roatan • Leon
Managua •
Travel through the hills, arrive at the coast and • Granada
stay longer in san jose • Ometepe Island
ferry across to paradise. The Caribbean-style Check out page 112. San Juan del Sur •
• La Fortuna/Arenal
Monteverde •
island of Roatan is a scuba diving haven and is San Jose • costa rica
famous for its marine treasures. Crystal blue
waters invite swimming, diving and snorkelling.
Or just sit back on the beach and relax.
106
La Fortuna
(Arenal Volcano)
•
costa rica • Sarapiqui
Playa Potero • • Monteverde
• Puerto Viejo de Limon & Cahuita
• El Roble
Tamarindo, Conchal & Flamingo • • San José
Tambor • • Jaco
• Manuel Antono
costa rica
My favourite The Weather
Situated well within the tropics
Useful Info
Costa Rica ranks first in the Happy
experience
"I couldn't believe the wildlife - we saw bugs, frogs and lizards everywhere!
but north of the equator, Costa
Rica has a typically tropical climate
with high temperatures all year
Planet Index and is the greenest
country in the world. The HPI
measures how much of the Earth's
And there were snakes, crocodiles in the lagoon that came up to the beach, round at low altitudes. At altitude, resources nations use and how
and amazing giant turtles. There were monkeys always hanging around temperatures significantly drop - long and happy a life their citizens
where we were staying and loads of screaming noises... huge spiders... and San José has much cooler nights enjoy as a result. In 2007 the Costa
so many birds... I think we even spotted a panther on the beach one night - than at sea level and the days are Rican government announced plans
but that's not necessarily normal!..." Ruth less hot and humid. Fortunately, for Costa Rica to become the first
Costa Rica is rarely affected by carbon neutral country by 2021.
hurricanes or tropical storms.
Useless Info
Local grub Costa Rica literally translates
Beans and rice, rice and beans, as "Rich Coast". It became the
you're gonna love them - otherwise first country in the world to
known as gallo pinto or burra. constitutionally abolish its army in
There's a heavy reliance on fresh 1948. Locals are known as Ticos.
fruit and vegetables. Try the
plantain and sweetcorn based try before you fly
dishes and you'll probably turn Re-live those childhood moments
into a banana while you're there. and watch Jurassic Park all over
Buzz around on the local coffee - again. It's a little-known fact that
traditional coffee breaks are usually it was filmed here. And you can
at around 3:00pm. For something a practice your dinosaur impressions
little stronger, drink guaro, the local too. Rooooaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
liquor, and granizados.
107
CENTRAL AMERICA
costa rica
adventure
16 DAYS, $1,539 fr
One of the most biologically diverse countries Day 4: Tortuguero National Park Days 10-12: Monteverde
in the world – a true Garden of Eden. Distinctive Take a morning boat ride to Tortuguero, Climb into the misty mountain air of the
for its rainforest, rushing rivers, pristine beaches with spectacular wildlife viewing en route. Monteverde cloud forest region. Weather
and towering volcanoes, you’ll truly feel off the The beaches here are nesting grounds of the permitting, do a two hour guided horse tour
beaten track on this 16 day adventure that enormous Green and Leatherback sea turtles. through coffee fields and forests. Spend a couple
takes you all around the beautiful little Central of days exploring the town and a cloud forest
American country of Costa Rica. Travelling Days 5-6: Rara Avis reserve - a true nature lover's paradise. Optional
with a small group of merry companions, The journey is half the adventure as you begin activities include a trail of suspended bridges
you’ll experience things that’ll transport your by travelling along two rivers, the Tortuguero through the canopy, a butterfly garden and a
subconscious to a place of contented reverie. and the La Suerte. Back on land you'll board thrilling canopy zip line.
The sheer ecological beauty of all that you see a van, then a unimog (all-terrain truck) and a
will leave you contemplative, philosophical, tractor-drawn cart - eventually arriving at your Days 13-14: Quepos / Manuel Antonio
bemused, amazed, but ultimately very, very special jungle oasis. You'll enter the primary Quepos is a small pacific town perfect for
happy. Your feet will perhaps tread where none rainforest bordering Braulio Carrillo National relaxing at the end of your tour. A short distance
have gone before as you explore steamy virgin Park, where at 700m above sea level the climate away, Manuel Antonio National Park offers
rainforest. Your ears will try and absorb the is generally cool year-round. A naturalist guide excellent hiking, spectacular views and abundant
crazed cries of howler monkeys as you trek leads you along nature trails, a butterfly farm wildlife. There are beautiful white sand beaches
around the base of an active volcano. Your and swimming spots at the twin waterfalls. There and the warm turquoise water is ideal for
skin will moisten in the misty mountain air as is also the option to climb to a viewing platform swimming, fishing, kayaking, boogie boarding,
you ride a horse through an incomprehensibly 30m above the jungle floor. (2B, L, 2D) sailing or surfing. The nightlife in the area is also
surreal cloud forest. And your body will bask some of the best in the country.
in the resplendent rays of the most becalming Days 7-9: La Fortuna / Arenal
sunshine as you lay back on stunning white La Fortuna, at the foot of Arenal Volcano, is an Day 15: San José
sandy beaches. Prepare to fall madly in love with excellent base for area explorations. Take a night Return to San José for some last-minute
the magic of Costa Rica. hike around the base of the Arenal Volcano, shopping and a final night on the town.
accompanied by the sounds of monkeys and the
HIGHLIGHTS distant rumbling of the volcano. Other optional Day 16: Depart San José
• Bask on exotic Caribbean beaches activities include white water rafting, horseback Your big adventure sadly ends on Day 16.
• Take a boat tour of Tortuguero N.P. riding, waterfall canyoneering (abseiling), a boat
• Explore Rara Avis Rainforest tour of the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, or a
• Hike around the base of Arenal Volcano relaxing soak in hot springs.
• Soak yourself in bubbling hot springs
• Horseback ride through Monteverde
• Absorb the wonder of a cloud forest
DEPARTURES
• Snorkel the warm waters around Quepos START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 MAR 15 MAR 30 MAY 31 JUN 15 AUG 16 AUG 31
JAN 02 JAN 17 MAR 20 APR 04 JUN 05 JUN 20 AUG 21 SEP 05
Day 1: Arrive San José JAN 04
JAN 09
JAN 19
JAN 24
MAR 22
MAR 27
APR 06
APR 11
JUN 07
JUN 12
JUN 22
JUN 27
AUG 23
AUG 28
SEP 07
SEP 12
Arrive in San José at any time - and go exploring. JAN 11 JAN 26 MAR 29 APR 13 JUN 14 JUN 29 AUG 30 SEP 14
JAN 16 JAN 31 APR 03 APR 18 JUN 19 JUL 04 SEP 04 SEP 19
JAN 18 FEB 02 APR 05 APR 20 JUN 21 JUL 06 SEP 06 SEP 21
JAN 23 FEB 07 APR 10 APR 25 JUN 26 JUL 11 SEP 11 SEP 26
Days 2-3: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca JAN 25 FEB 09 APR 12 APR 27 JUN 28 JUL 13 SEP 13 SEP 28
JAN 30 FEB 14 APR 17 MAY 02 JUL 03 JUL 18 SEP 18 OCT 03 Rara Avis
Begin with a bus ride over the scenic mountains FEB 01 FEB 16 APR 19 MAY 04 JUL 05 JUL 20 SEP 20 OCT 05
FEB 06 FEB 21 APR 24 MAY 09 JUL 10 JUL 25 SEP 25 OCT 10
to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. The picturesque FEB 08 FEB 23 APR 26 MAY 11 JUL 12 JUL 27 SEP 27 OCT 12
La Fortuna/Arenal •
•
• Tortuguero N.P.
Monteverde • • Limon
FEB 13 FEB 28 MAY 01 MAY 16 JUL 17 AUG 01 OCT 02 OCT 17
village of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca's white and FEB 15 MAR 02 MAY 03 MAY 18 JUL 19 AUG 03 OCT 04 OCT 19
San José • • Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
black sand beaches are surrounded by exotic FEB 20 MAR 07 MAY 08 MAY 23 JUL 24 AUG 08 OCT 09 OCT 24 Manuel Antonio •
FEB 22 MAR 09 MAY 10 MAY 25 JUL 26 AUG 10 OCT 11 OCT 26 costa rica
tropical vegetation. Many optional activities are FEB 27 MAR 14 MAY 15 MAY 30 JUL 31 AUG 15 OCT 16 OCT 31
MAR 01 MAR 16 MAY 17 JUN 01 AUG 02 AUG 17 OCT 18 NOV 02
available, including bike rentals, snorkelling and MAR 06 MAR 21 MAY 22 JUN 06 AUG 07 AUG 22 OCT 23 NOV 07
MAR 08 MAR 23 MAY 24 JUN 08 AUG 09 AUG 24 OCT 25 NOV 09
hiking in Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge. MAR 13 MAR 28 MAY 29 JUN 13 AUG 14 AUG 29 OCT 30 NOV 14
costa rica
hike, bike
& raft
15 DAYS, $1,929 fr
Physical activity makes people happy. As far Day 1: Arrive San José Days 8-10: Arenal / La Fortuna
as we know that’s a scientific fact. Costa Rica Arrive in San José at any time - and go exploring. At the base of the magnificent Arenal Volcano,
makes people happy – that ain’t scientifically La Fortuna has much to offer the adventurous
proven, but the professors here at STA Travel Days 2-5: La Danta / Guápiles traveller. You'll have a free day to take advantage
are 100% sure it's true. So mix this all together Embark on a four day/three night excursion deep of the town’s exciting activities that include
and what do you get? Nothing less than ecstatic, into the jungle, using a rustic lodge situated biking, kayaking, abseiling, hiking the Arenal
jubilant and beautiful serenity… which is more in the heart of the rainforest as your base. Volcano, hiking to one of the many waterfalls
or less the meaning of life. So for a fulfilling, You'll hike remote and unspoiled primary forest and of course, enjoying a frosty beverage in
contented and complete existence you simply located in the central volcanic mountain range the swim-up bar at the local hot springs. On
have to book yourself on this 15 day rock'n roll on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. Hike along one morning you'll bike through unsealed roads,
ride through Costa Rica. This amazing adventure the rainforest and enjoy the view of different over lava fields and through lovely scenery.
includes four days of hiking through the jaw waterfalls, including one that’s 150 metres Another day, you'll enjoy a bike ride to la Fortuna
dropping La Danta Private Reserve, three days high. Opportunities to see wildlife abound and waterfall and take a dip in a swimming hole. (2L)
of rafting on the Reventazon and Pacuare rivers, if you’re really lucky, you may catch a glimpse
horseback riding on your way to the cloud of an endangered species such as tapir, puma Days 11-13: Monteverde
forests of Monteverde and a session or two on or jaguar. Return each afternoon to the comfort Travel by jeep, boat and van to Monteverde
the bike seat as you cycle over lava fields. Just and safety of the lodge. Located near one of where you'll enjoy a two-hour guided horseback
reading about it may well precipitate a glorious, the many beautiful waterfalls cascading down tour through coffee fields and forests. Whilst in
excitable sweat. There is possibly no better the rim of the canyon, the lodge provides Monteverde you'll also experience a guided tour
country in the world for getting out and about a spectacular view of the canopy and the of the reserve in Monteverde Cloud Forest, a bird
amongst Mother Nature, simply because she seemingly never-ending rainforest. (4B, 3L, 3D) lover's paradise. You'll have free time to explore
presents her best work in the landscapes and the area, go on the sky walk, try the famous
creatures of Costa Rica. Mountains, forests, Days 6-7: River Rafting canopy zip-line or check out the butterfly
waterfalls, volcanoes, rainforest, monkeys, sea Your rafting adventure begins with a trip down garden. Marvel at the teeming wildlife.
turtles, parrots – you name it, Costa Rica has it the thrilling Reventazon River. The next day
and this adventure will definitely deliver it. you'll set off on the Pacuare River, known for Day 14: San José
its spectacular canyons and virgin rainforest. Return to San José for your final evening and a
HIGHLIGHTS Afternoons and evenings are spent at a remote farewell night out on the town.
• Hike through beautifully lush rainforest tent camp. Revel in the strange sounds of the
• Stay at a rustic rainforest lodge jungle animals and the rare trees surrounding Day 15: Depart San José
• Raft down exotic rivers you. (2B, 2L, 2D) Your adventure finishes where it started.
• Cycle across lava fields
• Soak in the hot springs of La Fortuna
• Ride horseback around Arenal Lake
DEPARTURES
• Take a tour of a cloud forest reserve START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 APR 10 APR 24 JUL 24 AUG 07 DEC 11 DEC 25
• Witness remarkable wildlife JAN 16 JAN 30 APR 24 MAY 08 AUG 07 AUG 21 DEC 18 JAN 01
JAN 30 FEB 13 MAY 08 MAY 22 AUG 21 SEP 04 2011
FEB 13 FEB 27 MAY 15 MAY 29 SEP 25 OCT 09 JAN 22 FEB 05
FEB 27 MAR 13 JUN 12 JUN 26 OCT 30 NOV 13 JAN 29 FEB 12
MAR 06 MAR 20 JUN 19 JUL 03 NOV 06 NOV 20 FEB 26 MAR 12
MAR 20 APR 03 JUL 10 JUL 24 DEC 04 DEC 18 MAR 05 MAR 19
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
109
CENTRAL AMERICA
basic
costa rica
14 DAYS, $1,009 fr
This 14 day frolic gets you going: out and about, Day 1: Arrive San José Days 8-9: Monteverde
up, down, loop the loop, inside and outside. Arrive into hot and sticky San José. Get out and Travel from Lake Arenal up an alluring green
Throwing you up in the air like an experienced explore the city and people-watch. mountain road into the misty mountain air of the
trapeze artist, you’ll come back down to earth Monteverde Cloud Forest. Explore the town and
giddy with active exhilaration. Costa Rica is Days 2-3: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca a nearby Cloud Forest reserve - bird lover's might
famed for its happy and healthy attitude, it's Take a bus ride down through the mountains to actually explode with excitement! This unique
the kind of thing you'd like to capture in a Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Stand stunned on community has several co-operatives worth
bottle - like a majic potion - to dab on yourself Puerto Viejo's white and black sandy beaches visiting. Be a daredevil on the sky walk, visit the
when ever you're feeling down! Hop off hiking, and breathe in the exotic tropical vegetation. pretty butterfly garden and play Tarzan on a
get on a horse and run as fast you can into the Rent a bike, snorkel or hike through Manzanillo zip-line canopy tour.
wilderness. Swim in fantastically blue waters, National Wildlife Refuge. Dance the night away
absorbing the paradisiacal quantity and beauty to reggae and calypso, taste flavourful Afro- Days 10-12: Playa Sámara
of the local wildlife and wade through the Caribbean cuisine and succumb completely to the Head onto beautiful Playa Sámara on the
plethora of plants and brightly coloured orchids. natural beauty of this tropical paradise. Pacific Coast of the Nicoya Peninsula and spend
On this trip out you'll get deep into the heart time doing nothing on the white sandy beach.
of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, skip care-free Day 4: Cahuita Actionistas can swim and snorkel in pristine
along the black and white sandy beaches, snorkel Continue north to Cahuita, a laid back Caribbean waters or learn to surf at one of the local surf
vibrant reefs, eat coconuts with monkeys and town with gorgeous beaches and a great schools. Very cool.
drift off into dreamland with the sound of far off national park. Hike the park's trails, snorkel
volcanoes and birds cawing in the background. vibrant reefs, make mates with the monkeys and Day 13: San José
soak up some serious sun. Return to San José for a final night on the town.
highlights Days 5-7: Arenal / La Fortuna Day 14: Depart San José
• Salsa the night away in San José La Fortuna sits at the foot of still-active Arenal Leave at anytime - energised and alive!
• Hike to hot and happy heaven Volcano. Escape into the dark on a night hike
• Snorkel in crystal clear waters around its base and listen to the sounds of the
• Devour delicious Caribbean fodder monkeys and the distant rumbling of the volcano.
• Relax in magma-heated hot springs Check out other activities like white water
• Inhale tropical air in the Cloud Forest rafting, horse riding, a tour of the Caño Negro
• Spot awesome looking birds Wildlife Refuge. Relax to the max in magma-
• Learn to surf heated hot springs.
DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 JUN 20 JUL 03 OCT 17 OCT 30 2011
MAR 21 APR 03 JUL 18 JUL 31 NOV 21 DEC 04 JAN 16 JAN 29
APR 18 MAY 01 AUG 15 AUG 28 DEC 19 JAN 01 FEB 20 MAR 05
MAY 16 MAY 29 SEP 19 OCT 02 MAR 20 APR 02
La Fortuna •
stay longer in san josÉ Playas del Coco • • • Cahuita
Check out page 112. Sámara • • San José • Puerto Viejo
costa rica de Talamanca
Monteverde
110
• Hike around the base of the still active Arenal Volcano start and finish: san José
• Ride horseback along the lake front at Monteverde
• Take a guided tour of a fascinating Cloud Forest reserve • Experience a night hike around the base of a still active volcano
• Explore the superb trails in Manuel Antonio National Park • Inhale the cool mountain air and explore a Cloud Forest Reserve
• Lie back on the white sandy beaches of Queops • Mountain bike along the lakefront to Monteverde
• Learn to surf on the waves of Costa Rica's Pacific coastline
Day 1: Arrive San José • Enjoy a fabulous night in the bars and clubs of San Jose
Arrive in San José at any time. Get yourself out and about.
Day 1: Arrive San José
Days 2-3: La Fortuna / Arenal Arrive in San José at any time. Head out for a wander.
La Fortuna is an excellent base to start exploring the area. Take an
unforgettable hike around the base of the active Arenal Volcano, Days 2-3: La Fortuna / Arenal
accompanied by the sounds of monkeys and the distant rumbling of the Drive through the mountains to La Fortuna, at the foot of Arenal Volcano.
volcano. Optional activities include white water rafting, horseback riding, a A night hike around the volcano is an unforgettable adventure. Try a
boat tour of Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge or a relaxing soak in hot springs. full day of whitewater rafting, go horseback riding, tour the Caño Negro
Wildlife Refuge or soak in the nearby hot springs.
Days 4-5: Monteverde
Inhale the cool mountain air of Monteverde. Enjoy a two hour guided tour Days 4-5: Monteverde
on horseback and spend a couple of days exploring the town and a Cloud Travel by van, boat and mountain bike along the lakefront to the cool
Forest reserve, a true bird lover's paradise. Optional activities include the mountain air of Monteverde. Spend a couple of days exploring the town
sky walk, a butterfly garden and a thrilling canopy zip-line. and a Cloud Forest Reserve. Optional activities include the sky walk, a
butterfly garden (cooler than it sounds!) and a thrilling canopy zip-line.
Days 6-7: Quepos / Manuel Antonio National Park
Quepos is one of Costa Rica's best known beach towns and the stunning Days 6-7: Playa Hermosa
Manuel Antonio National Park is only a few minutes away. The tropical Learn to surf at the Zopilote Surf Camp, located on Playa Hermosa de
vegetation, abrupt headlands and well-maintained trail systems offer Cobano on the northern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Check out hidden and
superb hiking and wildlife viewing; while the warm turquoise water is ideal well-known spots - there are waves for beginners and pros alike. (2B, 2D)
for swimming, sea kayaking, boogie boarding and surfing.
Day 8: San José
Day 8: San José Squeeze in a morning surf before taking a local bus back to San José. Arrive
A local bus takes you back to San José for one final night on the town. in the evening, in time to head out for one final night on the town.
DEPARTURES DEPARTURES
JAN – NOV: WED & SAT START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
DEC: SELECTED MON, WED & SAT 2010 JUN 05 JUN 13 NOV 20 NOV 28
JAN 02 JAN 10 JUN 19 JUN 27 DEC 04 DEC 12
Accommodation: Hotels (8 nts) Transport: Public bus, van, JAN 16 JAN 24 JUL 03 JUL 11 DEC 18 DEC 26
boat Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader JAN 30 FEB 07 JUL 17 JUL 25 2011
throughout, local guides Meals: No meals included FEB 13 FEB 21 JUL 31 AUG 08 JAN 01 JAN 09
Budget: Allow USD300 for meals not inc. Tour Code: GACRQ FEB 27 MAR 07 AUG 14 AUG 22 15 JAN JAN 23
• La Fortuna/Arenal MAR 13 MAR 21 AUG 28 SEP 05 JAN 29 FEB 06 • La Fortuna/Arenal
Monteverde • costa rica
MAR 27 APR 04 SEP 11 SEP 19 FEB 12 FEB 20 Monteverde • costa rica
San José • APR 10 APR 18 SEP 25 OCT 03 FEB 26 MAR 06 San José •
APR 24 MAY 02 OCT 09 OCT 17 MAR 12 MAR 20 Playa Hermosa •
Manuel Antonio • MAY 08 MAY 16 OCT 23 OCT 31 MAR 26 APR 03
MAY 22 MAY 30 NOV 06 NOV 14
hop-on hop-off
CENTRAL AMERICA
costa rica
Costa Rica is a stunning and wild topical
wonderland that offers an unlimited amount
of adventurous activities...learn to surf, hike
a volcano or take a dip in some natural hot
springs. Our fantastic bus passes give you the
freedom to see Costa Rica your way. • La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
Papagayo Gulf • costa rica • Sarapiqui
Playa Potero • • Monteverde
Experience the real Costa Rica and create your • Puerto Viejo de Limon & Cahuita
Coco Beach & Ocotal •
own personalised itinerary. Choose where you • El Roble • Manzanillo
Tamarindo, Conchal & Flamingo • • San José
want to go, when you want to depart, how many
routes you wish to purchase and which free Tambor • • Jaco
activities you want to do. Connections operate • Manuel Antono
to and from each destination listed on the map.
• All passes are valid for up to one month. Choose one of the following popular
itineraries or select any route you
• Choose 2 out of the 3 included activities like from the big map above.
(see below).
4 shuttles
arenal: volcano hike & hotsprings Recommended min. trip time: 6 days
The tour begins with an enchanting walk through San jose - La fortuna (arenal volcano)
tropical rainforest accompanied by our naturalist - puerto viejo - manuel antonio -
guide, while you observe monkeys, toucans and san jose
sloths before arriving at the active area of the
Arenal Volcano. At the hot springs enjoy a well 5 shuttles
deserved bath of hot water minerals, whilst Recommended min. trip time: 10 days
enjoying the breath-taking view of the Volcano. San jose - manuel antonio - tamarindo
- monteverde - la fortuna (arenal
san jose: white water rafting Volcano) - san jose
This adrenaline pumping trip begins when
the river drops steeply from the Costa Rican 6 shuttles
mountains and charges through pristine jungle Recommended min. trip time: 13 days
gorges, then winds around rocky curves to take San jose - manuel antonio -
you on a wild, adventurous ride back to sea montezuma - tamarindo - monteverde
level waters. - la fortuna (arenal volcano) -
san jose
monteverde: zip-line adventure
This cool and thrilling adventure allows you to 7 shuttles
explore the marvels of a virgin rainforest from Recommended min. trip time: 15 days
its canopy, indulge in the Cloud forest's amazing San jose - manuel antonio -
flora and fauna, including a wide variety of monteverde - tamarindo - la fortuna
mammals and exotic birds. Enjoy the spectacular (arenal volcano) - sarapiqui -
Costa Rican rainforest, 300 feet above the puerto viejo - san jose
forest floor.
112
San José
costa rica
nature
paradise
STAysmart STAysmart
8 days, fr 1,317
Start & Finish: san josÉ
taylor inn hotel vesuvio departs: every saturday
Just a few minutes from the Commercial centre A small and charming hotel within an old colonial
of San José, this hotel is small and pleasant. house in the heart of the historic Barrio Amon. Days 1-2: San JosÉ / arenal volcano
The National Theatre, Gold Museum and other Free continental breakfast, internet and room From the airport you'll head to the impressive
attractions in the city are nearby and you can service is available. Each lovely room boasts a Arenal Volcano – winding through lush scenery
relax on the pretty patio with your breakfast. STA576 private bathroom and cable TV. STA575 on your way there. Unwind in the evening and
explore the volcano the next day. Check out the
fr $92 SINGLE , INC. BREAKFAST fr $101 SINGLE , INC. BREAKFAST activities - hot springs, waterfall abseiling, horse
fr $109 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST fr $116 TWIN/DOUBLE, INC. BREAKFAST riding, volcano hikes and wildlife tours.
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
113
CENTRAL AMERICA
pacific ocean build homes teach
turtle for local english in
conservatioN families costa rica
1 week, fr $1,045 1 week, fr $1,395 4 weeks, fr $1,595
extra weeks fr $410 extra weeks fr $345 extra weeks fr $280
Start & Finish: san josÉ Start & Finish: san josÉ Start & Finish: san josÉ
A chance to do something really different, that If you want to immerse yourself in the laidback In Costa Rica, as in most countries around the
helps the wider world and lets you see some Costa Rican culture while making a real world, it’s the rural areas that need volunteers
sun. At a specialised marine turtle conservation difference to the lives of local people, then this the most; outside the cities, resources tend
project in one of three locations on the Pacific particular project will be right up your street. to dry up and children are left with far less
coast (Ostional, Mata Palo or Buena Vista), Grab the chance to work closely with Costa Rican opportunities. Luckily for you, rural Costa Rica is
you'll help with the day to day preservation families helping them to build homes that will also home to some of the most inspiring scenery
of the endangered leatherback turtle species. really improve their quality of life. Hundreds of this side of the National Geographic channel and
Help with the preparation of hatcheries, beach thousands of people in Costa Rica live in sub- these schools in particular provide a stunning
clearance and get out on those night patrols. standard housing that doesn't have adequate backdrop to your time here. They are located
The leatherback turtles are considered critically sanitation or safe weather protection. Help the in the small village of San Carlos in the Central
endangered - over 80% of the population was ongoing efforts to improve this situation and Valley, close to Volcano Arenal - listen to those
lost in the last 10 years. You'll receive marine make friends for life in the process. You'll make rumbles! Rural schools in Costa Rica don't have
turtle training so you can help out with research a significantly, noticeable and immediate impact. any English teachers so you'll be a sight for sore
and data collection. In your free time make your It's also a great base from which you can soak eyes for the children and they’re guaranteed to
way over to Panama or chill out in a locals bar. IT4 up the sun and explore the wonderfully tropical make the most of you! ITxxx
landscapes. ITxxx
activities activities
Turtle beach patrols, monitoring nests and activities Teaching English and other subjects.
recording data. Get involved in all aspects of the building
depending on what stage the building is at. Help accommodation
accommodation build septic tanks, lay floors, dig trenches and Single room in homestay.
Various shared accommodation, basic and clean put up roofs. Work out in the sun!
with cold water. meals
accommodation Three meals a day.
meals Homestay. Shared rooms.
3 meals a day. working hours
meals Flexible; five days per week which may include
working hours Three meals a day. Saturday, all other time is free.
Flexible; 5 to 6 days a week, a mix of day and
night work, with shift durations between 2 to 8 working hours also inculded
hours. All other time is free Flexible; Monday to Friday up to eight hours a • TEFL certification
day, all other time is free. • Airport pickup
also inculded • Orientation
• Airport pickup also inculded • 24/7 support from local staff
• Orientation • Airport pickup
• 24/7 support from local staff • Orientation
• 24/7 support from local staff
114
tamarindo
surf school Surf & Bike
8 days, fr $978 8 days, fr $978
Start & Finish: Liberia Airport Start & Finish: Liberia Airport
Departs: daily Departs: daily
Inclusions: 20 hrs per week spanish lessons, enrolment fees, course material,
certificate of attendance Meals: 2x daily in a homestay Tour Code: STA582
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
115
CENTRAL AMERICA
mexico
• Cancún
• Playa del Carmen
Chichén Itzá •
Mérida • • Cozumel
Uxmal • • Tulum
• Mexico City
• Chetumal
• Puebla
Belize City• • Caye Caulker Belize
Palenque •
BELIZE Currency: BELIZE DOLLAR
• Oaxaca • Flores / Tikal
Monte Albán • • San Cristobal Population: 320,000
Tuxtla Gutierrez • de las Casas
• Lanquin Price of a beer: $2.50
Antigua •
GUATEMALA
Mexico Guatemala
Currency: PESO Currency: QUETZAL
Population: 111 MILLION Population: 13 MILLION
Price of a beer: $1.50 Price of a beer: $1.80
Mexico, Guatemala
& Belize
My favourite The Weather
Tropical, hot, gloriously sunny
Useful Info
Belize used to be known as British
experience
"Caye Caulker was the best! When we got off the boat onto the island
and humid. That generally sums
it up. But beware of the dropping
temperatures in the highlands and
Honduras, it's the only country in
Central America where English is
the official language and you'll find
Vicki went off diving into the Blue Hole and I went out snorkelling with in Mexico City - it makes the nights the Queen's head on its banknotes.
massive stingrays and nurse sharks. Pretty scary stuff but equally amazing worthy of rugging up. Beware of
– there’s just so much to see. We spent a couple of days chilling out on the tropical storm season from August Useless Info
piers, drank cocktails and ordered some seriously juicy lobster – I’ve been to October - this is the period when Maize (corn) is pretty important to
dreaming of it ever since. Take me back tomorrow, please!"... Lucy you are most at risk of hurricanes. the Mayan people, not only is there
May to October gets the most a Maize god, but Mayan mythology
sunshine but also the most rainfall. states that in creation, their
Guatemala City is almost entirely first ancestors were made from
dry from November to April. maize dough. The maize is usually
personified as a woman, but earlier
on the male Tonsured Maize God
Local grub also doubled as a Tonsured Cacao
Forget the greasy coloured food God, with cacao pods growing from
that passes for a Mexican at home. his body. Sweetcorn and chocolate.
Here you can munch on freshly These guys were ingenious!
made salsa, try mole poblano (a
chocolatey based savoury sauce), try before you fly
drink margaritas til dawn and Watch 'Sin nombre' by newbie
eat as much seafood as you can director Cary Fukunaga. It
physically stomach. Try the local showcases love, intense emotion,
ceviche too - it's delicious. Beans and the extreme violence of
and rice are also big. Mexico's fascinating gang culture.
116
18-35 yrs
mexico
grande
13 DAYS, $2,369 fr
mexico city - cancun Day 4: Ixtapa to Acapulco Day 9: Mexico City to Merida via Uxmal
Head towards the bright lights and old-school Leave behind the urban colossus of Mexico
Specifically designed for those lucky people aged ritzy glamour of Acapulco Bay. Watch the famous City and fly to the beautiful white-stone city
18-35. This amazing trip includes just about death-defying cliff divers and when the sun of Merida. Make a quick trip to Uxmal, with its
everything – so you can concentrate on having sets, soak up the experience of the nightlife in magnificent ancient pyramids and temples. Then
the time of your life. Prepare for 13 days of Mexico’s number one party town. (B) head back to Merida for a tour around the city’s
perfectly fused fun and adventure that takes in gorgeous buildings, palaces and haciendas. (B, D)
two different but equally astonishing chunks of Day 5: Acapulco
magical Mexico. You’re never too far away from Get out and peruse the traditional open air Day 10: Merida / Cancún / Chichén Itzá
the coast – which means you’ll be exposed to markets. Meet some friendly locals and then Take a captivating journey through Mayan
beautiful sunshine, beautiful people and lots head down to the beach to relax. Wrap your history on a guided tour at Chichén Itzá – a
of beautiful bars, clubs and cafes. You’ll travel chops around some lip-smacking seafood, or spectacular ancient ceremonial centre. Stop in
in an ultra modern, air-conditioned coach as watch the sunset on an optional party cruise. (B) the modern mega-resort of Cancún after lunch
you and your merry band of fun seekers check with its endless shopping, nightlife and plethora
out the white sands of the Mexican Riviera, the Day 6: Acapulco to Taxco of tropical outdoor activities. (B)
bold broodiness of the Sierra Madre Mountains, Wind up into the Sierra Madre Mountains and
the mystical ruins of Chichen Itza and the non find the quaint, stucco buildings of Taxco nestled Day 11: Cancún & Playa del Carmen
stop action of Cancún and Playa Del Carmen. in the hills. Bargain hunters beware – this is a Enjoy a day trip to the glorious Caribbean
Throughout your adventure you’ll stay in lovely dangerously good silver shopping spot! (B, D) playground of Playa del Carmen. Snorkel the
twin-share accommodation and thrown into the azure waters, hang out in the open-air cafes or
total price is your flight from Mexico City to Day 7: Taxco to Mexico City take a ferry to the island of Cozumel and hire a
Merida. Return to Mexico City and visit the unique scooter or golf buggy. (B)
floating gardens and markets of Xochimilco. Head
highlights off through “The City of Palaces” where you’ll Day 12: Cancún
• Stay every night in comfy hotels see a multitude of ancient ruins and interesting Soak up all the Cancún action you can - swim
• Enjoy loads of included local meals colonial-influenced, yet modern architecture. (B) through a jungle lagoon, learn to scuba dive or
• Dedicated crew to show you the way day trip it to an eco-archeological park. Then
• Hang out on Mexico's very best beaches Day 8: Mexico City party your last night away til dawn at one of the
• Float through the canals of Xochimilco Start the day with an excursion to remarkable very many bars and clubs. (B, D)
• Experience a guided tour of Chichen Itza ancient Teotihuacan pyramids and ruins. The
• Party until the sun comes up in Cancun day is then yours to jump into the city’s highly Day 13: Depart Cancún
• Walking tour through Colonial Morelia energised atmosphere! Wander the sidewalk This morning the tour ends and it’s time to say
cafés, bazaars, boutiques and museums. (B, D) farewell to your new friends. (B)
Day 1: Mexico City to Morelia
DEPARTURES
Leave Mexico’s capital behind. Arrive in Morelia START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 APR 17 APR 29 JUN 12 JUN 24 DEC 04 DEC 16
with its fascinating colonial architecture and MAR 06 MAR 18 MAY 08 MAY 20 JUL 03 JUL 15 2011
picturesque streets. Try some delicious local MAR 20
APR 03
APR 01
APR 15
MAY 22
JUN 05
JUN 03
JUN 17
JUL 17
NOV 06
JUL 29
NOV 18
JAN 15
MAR 5
JAN 27
MAR 17
food and head out for a night on the town. (D)
Accommodation: Twin-share hotels (12n) Transport: Modern air-con coach, internal Cancún •
flight from Mexico City to Merida Group Leader: Tour manager and driver Meals: 12
Mérida • •
breakfasts, 6 dinners Tour Code: COMEXC
Day 2: Morelia / Ixtapa / Zihuatanejo Playa del Carmen
Head south to the sunny Mexican Riviera and • Morelia
• Mexico City
pull your chins back off the ground after scoping • Taxco
out the view of the long stretches of white sandy • Ixtapa
mexico
beaches. Kick back with a cocktail in Ixtapa. (B) VALUE TRIP! • Acapulco
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117
CENTRAL AMERICA
18-35 yrs 18-35 yrs
MEXICAN FIESTA YUCATAN EXPLORER
9 DAYS, $1,275 fr 6 DAYS, $1,245 fr
• Travel and relax with modern coaches and comfy hotels • Go coco crazy in the spring break capital of Cancún
• Taste the local cuisine with included meals • Guided sightseeing tour of fascinating Mayan ruins
• Enjoy the bazaars, musems and cafes in Mexico City • Admire the architecture in colonial Merida
• Buy silver trinkets in Taxco • Soak up the sun, snorkel and dive in Playa del Carmen
• Float around Xochimilco's gardens and markets • Try great local seafood and magical mojitos
Day 2: Morelia to Ixtapa via Zihuatanejo Day 2: Mexico City to Merida via Uxmal
Go west to the sunny Mexican Riviera. Kick back admiring the beaches. (B) Head out of the city and fly to the pretty white-stone city of Merida. Make
a quick trip to Uxmal's magnificent ancient pyramids and temples. Get back
Day 3: Ixtapa for a tour of Merida's gorgeous buildings, palaces and haciendas. (B, D)
Kayak along the city shores or snorkel round smaller beach villages. (B, D)
Day 3: Merida to Cancún via Chichén Itzá
Day 4: Ixtapa to Acapulco Take a captivating journey through Mayan history on a guided tour of
Soak in the views and as the sun sets, enjoy Acapulco's epic nightlife. (B) Chichén Itzá – a spectacular ancient ceremonial center. After lunch, stop in
Caribbean Cancún for endless shopping, nightlife and outdoor activities. (B)
Day 5: Acapulco
Drop by the markets, chomp on seafood or set sail on a party cruise. (B) Day 4: Cancún & Play del Carmen
Day trip it to the glorious beachside playground of Playa del Carmen. Fill your
Day 6: Acapulco to Taxco day snorkelling the azure waters and hanging out in open-air cafés. (B)
Travel into the Sierra Madre Mountains to the silver town of Taxco. (B)
Day 5: Cancún
Day 7: Taxco to Mexico City Catch all the Cancún action you can today. Swim through a jungle lagoon,
Visit the floating gardens and markets of Xochimilco, then check “The City learn to dive, or day trip it to an eco-archeological park. Celebrate your
of Palaces” for a multitude of ancient ruins and interesting architecture. (B) last night out together at the legendary bars and dance til dawn. (B).
DEPARTURES DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 MAY 08 MAY 16 DEC 04 DEC 12 2010 MAY 29 JUN 03 DEC 11 DEC 16
DEC 05 DEC 12 MAY 22 MAY 30 2011 MAR 13 MAR 18 JUN 12 JUN 17 2011
JAN 09 JAN 16 JUN 05 JUN 13 JAN 15 JAN 23 MAR 27 APR 01 JUN 19 JUN 24 JAN 22 JAN 27
MAR 06 MAR 14 JUN 12 JUN 20 MAR 05 MAR 13 APR 10 APR 15 JUL 10 JUL 15 MAR 12 MAR 17
• Morelia APR 24 APR 29 JUL 24 JUL 29 MAR 26 MAR 31 Cancún •
MAR 20 MAR 28 JUL 03 JUL 11 MAR 13 MAR 27
• Mexico City MAY 15 MAY 20 NOV 13 NOV 18 Mérida • •
APR 03 APR 11 JUL 17 JUL 25
APR 17 APR 25 NOV 06 NOV 14 • Taxco
Accommodation: Twin-share hotels (5n) Transport: Modern Playa del Carmen
mexico
Accommodation: Twin-share hotels (8n) Transport: Modern • Ixtapa air-con coach, flight from Mexico City to Merida • Mexico City
air-con coach Group Leader: Tour manager and driver • Acapulco Group Leader: Tour manager and driver throughout
throughout Meals: 8 breakfasts, 4 dinners Meals: 5 breakfasts, 3 dinners Tour Code: COMEX3
mexico
Tour Code: COMEX2
mayan
adventure
22 DAYS, $2,069 fr
highlights
• Go coco-crazy in Cancún
• Snorkel in crystal clear Caribbean water
• Marvel at Mayan ruins Days 4-5: Palenque Days 8-12: Guatemalan Highlands
• Make mayhem in the markets Go on a gob-smacking gallivant around the ruins Tread Panajachel paved streets and taste its old
• Swim with nurse sharks and stingrays of Palenque, home to the mummified remains world flavour. Head out onto the lake by boat,
• Rock to reggae rhythms of Lord Pakal and jam-packed full of flora and kayak, windsurf or human dorsal fin and admire
• Chill out with a Guatemalan coffee fauna. Enjoy running up and down the stone the smokin’ volcanoes in the distance. Visit the
• Kayak and windsurf to holistic heaven steps and soak in the rainforest’s radiance. Pack Sunday market of Chichicastenango, a cultural
• Dive in world-class open water your bathers for a cool down under the Agua experience not to be missed – made better with
• Salsa with a sexy señorita Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls 45 minutes away. an additional peppering of p’s and g’s (por favor
Set in the middle of lush jungle, jump into the and gracias) to help your barganacious powers
Day 1: Arrive Cancún plunge pools and take note of the somewhat come to the fore. Onto colonial Antigua for
Arrive into Cancún. Explore the city’s plethora of ambiguous (and therefore perhaps deliberately more hair-raising activities. Climb a volcano or
street-side bars and cafés. Prime every single hilarious) no-pushing-in signs. Optional day- mountain bike through the countryside for more
sense as you absorb all the beautiful craziness trippers can check out other ethereal ruins on fun times and hilarious anecdotes.
around you. Welcome to Mexico! the Guatemalan border. Tell the folks back home
you’ve got jungle fever so you’ll have to stay Days 13-14: Flores / Tikal
Days 2-3: Chichén Itzá / Mérida away til you’ve made at least a 100% recovery. Settle in for a spectacular sunset in this
Stop at the fascinating and famous Mayan Massive shame. picturesque town by Lake Petén Itzá. Swim, live
pyramids and ruins of Chichén Itzá – recently the laidback life and tick the Tikal box – one of
voted one of the new seven Wonders of the Days 6-7: San Cristobal de las Casas the biggest and best ruins in the Mayan world.
World. Learn about this ancient civilization’s Trundle along to San Cristobal de las Casas for
interesting way of life before moving on to the yet another side to the Mexican way of life. High Days 15-16: San Ignacio, Belize
city of Mérida. Wander the pretty plazas and up in the hills, this town experiences a cooler Time to get your action-man costumes on. Oh
open markets – perfect for sombrero-shaped climate than other areas, yet is by no means less yeah, you better Belize it! This little town offers
souvenirs and hammocks you have nowhere to colourful or full of life. More marvellous markets many an adrenaline-junkie jaunt. Hop to it on a
hang. Bask under the Yucatan sun and sit back will greet you extending out along the main hike, canoe or horse. Duck down low on a caving
with a coffee at an outdoor café admiring the streets and you can choose to take a speed-boat trip or visit the Mountain Pine Ridge Area for
colonial architecture. If you prefer to leave the ride along the vast gorge nearby for views and a swim in its inviting pools and rivers. There's
culture vultures to it back in Mérida’s magical birdspottings a plenty. Visit outlying villages for loads to do in this utterly stunning little chunk
museums, escape the city and dive into a nearby an insight into modern-day Mayan life. of Latin America.
cenote (water sink hole) for a swim.
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119
CENTRAL AMERICA
Days 17-19: Caye Caulker
As you step out of your speedy-gonzalez motor
boat onto the teeny tiny island of Caye Caulker
you'll hit the ‘Go Slow’ sign etched into the ground
beneath you. Feel the wind in your hair as you Days 20-21: Playa del Carmen
kick back with a beer on the pier, munch lobster Playing on the Playa (beach) is just one of the
and other fruit from the ocean. Wake up to a infinite options in this sunny resort town on the
breakfast of home-made island banana cake, drink Mayan Riviera. Snorkel among the mangroves,
delicious coffee and groove to the totally chilled dive into underground caverns, swim with turtles
out reggae that pumps through every islander’s or simply soak up the sol with a cool margarita
veins. Hire canoes and capsize spectacularly in hand. Catch a combi (bus) to the stunning
before you can say Bob Marley’s your uncle and seaside Mayan ruins of Tulúm, a little further Day 22: Depart Playa del Carmen
forget your fears on a swim with giant stingrays down the coast. Party into the night in one of Say adios amigos to your newfound friends and
and nurse sharks at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. the beachside bars and look good with the cream head home making everyone jealous of your
of the Mexican crop. bronzed body and fab freckles.
DEPARTURES
Do it your way
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH • Cancún
2010 MAY 15 JUN 05 AUG 28 SEP 18 2011 Chichen Itzá • • Playa del
JAN 02 JAN 23 JUN 05 JUN 26 SEP 04 SEP 25 JAN 01 JAN 22 Carmen
JAN 09 JAN 30 JUN 19 JUL 10 SEP 18 OCT 09 JAN 08 JAN 29 Mérida • • Cozumel
mexico
JAN 16 FEB 06 JUN 26 JUL 17 OCT 02 OCT 23 JAN 15 FEB 05
JAN 23 FEB 13 JUL 03 JUL 24 OCT 16 NOV 06 JAN 22 FEB 12 need something shorter?
JAN 30 FEB 20 JUL 10 JUL 31 NOV 06 NOV 27 JAN 29 FEB 19
FEB 06 FEB 27 JUL 14 AUG 04 NOV 20 DEC 11 FEB 05 FEB 26
'Yucatan panorama'
FEB 20 MAR 13 JUL 17 AUG 07 DEC 04 DEC 25 FEB 19 MAR 12 • Chetumal check out page 121
MAR 06 MAR 27 JUL 24 AUG 14 DEC 11 JAN 01 MAR 05 MAR 26 Belize City • • Caye Caulker
MAR 20 APR 10 JUL 31 AUG 21 DEC 18 JAN 08 MAR 19 APR 09 10 days fr $1,179Tour Code: GAMYP
APR 03 APR 24 AUG 07 AUG 28 DEC 25 JAN 15 San Ignacio •
APR 17 MAY 08 AUG 14 SEP 04 Palenque • belize
MAY 01 MAY 22 AUG 21 SEP 11 Tikal •
Accommodation: Hotels (21 nts) (May be multi-share) Transport: Public bus, van, • San Cristobal Flores •
boat Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guides de las Casas guatemala
Meals Included: No Meals Included Budget: Allow USD500 for meals not included Chichcastenango •
Tour Code: GACAM Panajachel •
Antigua •
• Guatemala City
stay longer in cancun
Check out page 125.
120
mexican
ancient
Civilizations
15 DAYS, $1,159 fr
Get under the Mayan’s, Aztec’s and Zapotec’s Days 4-5: Mérida
skins - experience their fascinating culture and Check out the legendary Mayan ruins of Chichén
witness their intriguing ways of life on this two Itzá on your way across the Yucatan state to
week trip from Cancún to Mexico City. Start Mérida. Explore the colonial centre on foot or in
off with some well deserved relaxation and a horse-drawn carriage, take a trip to the Uxmal
snorkelling in crystal clear waters along the ruins, visit Progreso beach or spend the night
Caribbean coast. Roll up to the pre-Columbian doing your best to dance like the locals!
archaeological site of Chichen Itza – one of the
new Seven Wonders of the World, and visit the Days 6-7: Palenque
nearby underground sinkholes for a quick dip. Hit the highway and travel through the states of
Explore colonial Merida and wander the cobbled Campeche and Tabasco to cheery Chiapas - set Day 13: Puebla
streets - relax with some Mexican coffee, people- deep in the jungle. From here you can explore After a short drive on one of Mexico’s
watch and absorb the myriad of bright colours. Palenque - one of the most stunning Mayan sites comfortable buses you'll hit Puebla, famous
Discover the impressive and beautiful sights of in Mexico, hidden in and amongst gorgeous flora for its hand-painted tiles, unique handicrafts,
Palenque, set deep within the jungle, wander the and profuse wildlife. Watch out for that tree! mouth-watering Mole Poblano (yum) and rich
markets in San Cristobal and salsa until sunrise colonial history. Heaven on a stick.
in Oaxaca. By the time your trip comes to an end Days 8-10: San Cristóbal de las Casas
you'll be armed with countless adventure stories. Known for its ties to the Zapatista revolution, Day 14: Mexico City
Prepare to make you mates back home wilt with San Cristóbal is an architectural and cultural Go up, down, in, out, over, under and round the
green-eyed envy. Happy times. wonder. Take a tripette (spanglish for quick trip) world's biggest city and see if you can't get a
to a traditional village to experience day-to-day little bit dizzy. Check out the impressive Palacio
highlights life. Learn how locals combine traditional beliefs de Bellas Artes building, head into the silver
• Go coco-crazy in Cancún and modern religion with intriguing results. markets and go further afield on a visit to the
• Play on the playa in Playa del Carmen Teotihuacán pyramids - slap on that suncream
• Snorkel in cenotes Days 11-12: Oaxaca and heave yourself up under the altitude!
• Chew your way round Chichén Itzá We love Oaxaca. The colourful and lively markets Tuck into a last night full of fresh guacamole
• Get jungle fever in Palenque and the impressive Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban and moreish mojitos with your mad and merry
• Salsa it up in San Cristóbal are just two of many, many reasons to visit Mexican mates.
• Make marvellous mates in Mérida wonderful Oaxaca. Go bananas for handicrafts
• Wake up in wacky Oaxaca and souvenirs, philosophise over a couple of Day 15: Depart Mexico City
• Don stripy shawls and silly sombreros beers and salsa til you see sunrise. Depart with smiley faces and silly sombreros.
• Meddle in the markets in Mexico City
flippers a go-go, or for an ariel view of this Accommodation: Basic hotels/guest houses (13 nts) (may be multi-share), night • Puebla
bus (1 nt) Transport: Public bus, van Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour Palenque •
beautiful part of the Mayan Riviera shoot off leader throughout Meals: No meals included Budget: Allow USD375 for meals not • Oaxaca
included Tour Code: GAMCM Monte Albán •
Tuxtla Gutierrez • • San Cristobal de las Casas
paragliding into the bluer than blue skies. Dive
into underground caverns to escape the heat or go in reverse
Mexico City - Cancún fr $1,159 Tour Code: GAMMC
simply sunbathe on the city's sexy sultry shores.
Grab the chance for a stylish bite to eat at one stay longer in cancÚn
of Playa del Carmen's cool bars and restaurants. Check out page 125.
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121
CENTRAL AMERICA
yucatan
panorama
10 DAYS, $1,179 fr
hop-on hop-off
central america
Set off to discover lost cities and ancient • See the real Mexico and Central America
civilisations. Bask in the warm sunshine and and enjoy loads of included cultural,
marvel at the natural beauty of the stunning adventure and lifestyle activities.
Caribbean beaches, mountain temples, jungle
ruins, volcanoes and waterfalls. • Travel on a variety of transportation
methods and experience the local way of
Buy one travel pass and create your own life on safe local first class public buses.
personalised itinerary with the freedom to
choose where to go, when to depart and how • Daily departures - flexible itineraries
many days you want to spend exploring each with convenient departures everyday.
unique destination. Each pass comes with one or
more included activities - check them out below... • Choose your starting point, ending point
and everywhere in between.
Included activities - our favourites • Travel with lots of like minded travellers
and make new friends.
Xochimilco Kayak & Frida Kahlo
Meander through the peaceful canals on a one • Make unlimited changes to your
hour kayak ride and a one hour trajinera boat ride. schedule as you travel
Antigua Pacaya Volcano Trek ROutE Rec. min. trip time Price
Witness a flowing river of lava, check out the Mexico City to San Jose via Panajachel or vice versa 17 Days $765
erupting volcano and walk in dry lava. Mexico City to San Jose via Cancun or vice versa 30 Days $1147
Cancun to San Jose via Belize or vice versa 15 Days $641
Mayan Experience Home Stay
Cancun to San Jose via San Cristobal or vice versa 18 Days $772
Stay with a local Guatemalan family for the night
and sample local food and drinks. Antigua to San Jose or vice versa 5 Days $321
Mexico City to Cancun via Puerto Escondido or vice versa 8-10 Days $597
Tikal Sunrise Adventure Mexico City to Cancun via Guatemala & Belize or vice versa 12-14 Days $799
Trek through animal infested jungle to an ancient
Cancun round trip via Antigua 15 Days $778
Mayan temple for a stunning misty sunrise.
Cancun round trip via Flores 12 Days $503
Sumidero Canyon Boat Tour Cancun to Antigua via Belize 9 Days $326
Spot crocodiles, wild birds and beautiful plants Fully Monty: Mexico, Guatemala & Belize Pass 27 Days $1,173
on a boat journey through this historic canyon. Fully Monty: Mexico Pass 20 Days $834
full mexico & central america ways central america sampler ways
mexico city - costa rica via cancun or vice versa, fr $1,147 mexico city - costa rica via panajachel or vice versa, fr $765
Recommended min. trip time: 30 days Recommended min. trip time: 17 days
• Cancún
mexico Merida • mexico
el salvador
• Managua • Managua
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123
CENTRAL AMERICA
mexico city - cancun via puerto escondido, fr $597 start & finish: cancun, fr $503
Recommended min. trip time: 8-10 days Recommended min. trip time: 12 days
• Cancún • Cancún
Merida •
mexico
• Mexico City
• Belize City mexico • Belize City
belize Pallenque • belize
Oaxaca • • Flores / Tikal • Flores / Tikal
San Cristóbal •
Puerto Escandida • guatemala • Lanquin
Panajachel • guatemala
Antigua • • Guatemala City
• Cancún • Cancún
mexico mexico
• Mexico City
• Belize City • Belize City
belize belize
Oaxaca • • Flores / Tikal • Flores / Tikal
San Cristóbal •
guatemala • Lanquin • Lanquin
Panajachel • guatemala
Antigua • • Guatemala City Antigua •
• Cancún • Cancún
Merida •
mexico Merida •
Hostel amigo, mexico city moneda hostel, mexico city poc-na hostel, isla mujeres
A 350 yr old building on a safe street in Cool and friendly, this hostel offers a fun A great little hostel with loads going on. There's
downtown Mexico City - walking distance to city atmosphere, great location and good facilities. a big outdoor bar that serves up excellent
attractions and metro. Free breakfast, internet, Check out the bar and rooftop terrace for cocktails and yummy food. It's set right on the
TV lounge, games room and money exchange. A breakfast or a beer and make your trip fun filled. beach so you only have to roll out of bed in the
great place for meeting others. Tequila! STA583 Free breakfast, internet and tour desk. STA584 morning to catch some palm shaded rays. STA585
fr $20 DORM, INC. bREAKFAST fr $23 DORM, INC. bREAKFAST fr $15 DORM, INC. bREAKFAST
fr $55 SINGLE, INC. bREAKFAST fr $34 DOUBLE, INC. bREAKFAST
fr $55 TWIN, INC. bREAKFAST
mayan hostel, cancÚn caribe international, cancÚn Immerse yourself in Mexico! Soak up some
The perfect location for endless beaches, clubs, A great hotel with excellent facilities. There's a Spanish in one of Mexico's stunning beach
bars and restaurants. This friendly, family-run tropically set swimming pool, trendy hotel bar resorts - and return home with excellent Spanish
hostel has free internet, 24hr reception, tour 'D'Bohemios' (great for cocktails) and an open air and a wonderful tan! When you're not working on
desk and a great rooftop terrace. Some of the restaurant, 'La Pergola Caribeña'. You're bang in your vocab and verbs, explore the white sandy
smart dorms have thatched roofs. STA586 the centre - 10 mins from the beach. STA587 beaches, the shady palm trees and the crystal
clear waters. There's loads to see and do, so
fr $15 DORM, INC. bREAKFAST fr $66 SINGLE what are you waiting for. Tick it off your list!
fr $50 TWIN, INC. bREAKFAST fr $66 TWIN/DOUBLE
Accommodation: Ranges from cosy home-stays to riotous student residences
Meals: 2 meals a day at homestays Other Inclusions: Enrolment fees, course
materials, certificate of attendance Tour Code: STA588
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125
CENTRAL AMERICA
8 DAYS, $769 fr 7 DAYS, $1,179 fr
DEPARTURES DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 JUN 06 JUN 13 SEP 19 SEP 26 2010 DEC 11 DEC 17 MAR 26 APR 01
MAR 14 MAR 21 JUN 20 JUN 27 OCT 10 OCT 17 MAR 20 MAR 26 2011 APR 16 APR 22
MAR 28 APR 04 JUL 04 JUL 11 OCT 24 OCT 31 APR 24 APR 30 JAN 01 JAN 07 APR 30 MAY 06
APR 11 APR 18 JUL 18 JUL 25 NOV 07 NOV 14 Playa del Carmen MAY 22 MAY 28 JAN 22 JAN 28 MAY 14 MAY 20
APR 25 MAY 02 AUG 01 AUG 08 NOV 21 NOV 28 JUN 19 JUN 25 FEB 12 FEB 18 MAY 28 JUN 03
MAY 09 MAY 16 AUG 15 AUG 22 DEC 05 DEC 12 Cancún • NOV 20 NOV 26 MAR 05 MAR 11 JUN 11 JUN 17
•
MAY 23 MAY 30 SEP 05 SEP 12 DEC 19 DEC 26
Mérida • • San Pedro / Ambergris Caye
Accommodation: Camping (6 nts) Transport: Small sailboat
Accommodation: Hotels (7 nts) Transport: Public bus,
• Chichen Itzá Group Size: Max 8, Avg 6 Group Leader: Experienced sailboat Goff's Caye • • Lighthouse Reef
taxi Group Size: Max 15, Avg 8 Group Leader: Tour leader mexico captain Meals: 6 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 6 Dinners Budget: belize
throughout Meals: No meals included Budget: Allow USD200 Allow USD50 for meals not included Tour Code: GACBSB
for meals not included Tour Code: GACMYQ
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Currency: CUBAN PESO
Population: 11.5 MILLION
Price of a beer: $1.80
cuba
My favourite The Weather
With its gentle northeasterly wind
Useful Info
Cuba has two currencies - Moneda
experience
"I’ve never relaxed anywhere as much as I managed to in Cuba. I won't forget
- Cuba boasts a humid subtropical
climate and is generally very warm
all year round. 70% of the yearly
Nacional which locals use and one
specifically for tourists, Pesos
Convertible (CUC). Make sure you
how chilled out I felt as I sat back in a downtown Havana bar and watched rain falls during the summer season don't get the two confused as CUC
the endlessly fascinating local people pass me by. In one hand I had a cool (May - October) when temperatures is worth 26 times more!
mojito, in the other a fine cigar. In the background the distinctive sounds can get rather hot. Winter is usually
of Cuban Son music kept my foot tapping as the day slowly became night. much drier, with things getting Useless Info
Whenever I feel stress, I think back to then and smile." Will quite a bit cooler in the evenings - There have been a total of 638
especially between December and attempts on Fidel Castro's life -
March. some of which have included toxic
cigars.
Local grub
Available for just over 25c on most try before you fly
street corners you'll eventually Anyone who wants to gain a deeper
come to love the unique, almost understanding of Cuban culture has
sour taste of Peso Pizza. With to learn a little bit more about the
fluffy dough, crispy crusts, a big Cuban revolutiuon and the antics
splattering of tomato sauce and of Che Guevara. For a fun and
slathers of stinky cheese - first fascinating way to do this - check
impressions of this hot steaming out Benicio del Toro's startling
speciality may not have you rushing performance in Che Part one. Filmed
back for more. But we guarantee entirely in Spanish, it tells the
that you'll munch your way through story of Che Guevara's key role in
many, many more on your travels overthrowing Fulgencio Batista's
through Cuba. oppressive dictatorship.
127
CENTRAL AMERICA
8 DAYS, $1,069 fr 8 DAYS, $1,239 fr
• Enjoy the many outdoor activities around Vinales • Visit a traditional cigar factory in Pinar del Rio
• Be charmed by the pirate legends of Maria La Gorda • Absorb the unpoilt coastal beauty around Cayo Jutias
• Experience a stunning sunset cruise • Check out the verdant green lands around Soroa
• Take a tour of the world famous Robaina Tobacco Plantation • Ride past scenically splendid mountains to Las Terrazas
• Explore the waterfalls and coffee plantaions of Soroa • Enjoy a facinating city tour of Havana
DEPARTURES DEPARTURES
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 APR 10 APR 17 JUL 24 JUL 31 2010 JUN 19 JUN 26 DEC 18 DEC 25
JAN 02 JAN 09 APR 17 APR 24 JUL 31 AUG 07 JAN 16 JAN 23 JUL 10 JUL 17 DEC 25 JAN 01
JAN 09 JAN 16 APR 24 MAY 01 AUG 07 AUG 21 FEB 06 FEB 13 JUL 31 AUG 7 2011
JAN 16 JAN 23 MAY 01 MAY 08 AUG 21 AUG 28 FEB 27 MAR 06 AUG 21 AUG 28 JAN 15 JAN 22
JAN 23 JAN 30 MAY 08 MAY 15 SEP 04 SEP 11 MAR 20 MAR 27 SEP 11 SEP 18 FEB 05 FEB 12
JAN 30 FEB 06 MAY 15 MAY 22 SEP 18 SEP 25 APR 03 APR 10 OCT 02 OCT 09 FEB 26 MAR 05
Ca V
La Jul les
Ha a •
FEB 06 FEB 13 MAY 22 MAY 29 OCT 02 OCT 09 APR 17 APR 24 OCT 23 OCT 30 MAR 19 MAR 26
yo iñ
Havana •
Pa ias • • P
va • • S
FEB 13 FEB 20 MAY 29 JUN 05 OCT 09 OCT 16 MAY 8 MAY 15 NOV 13 NOV 20
Soroa • • Las Terrazas
l
na • oro
m
FEB 20 FEB 27 JUN 05 JUN 12 OCT 16 OCT 23 cuba MAY 29 JUN 05 DEC 04 DEC 11
Viñales •
• as
a
MAR 06 MAR 13 JUN 19 JUN 26 OCT 30 NOV 06 • Maria la Gorda Accommodation: Hotels (6 nts), basic cabin (1 nt) Transport:
Te
MAR 13 MAR 20 JUN 26 JUL 03 NOV 06 NOV 13 Air-conditioned microbus, bike Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10
a
rr
in
as
de
MAR 27 APR 03 JUL 10 JUL 17 NOV 20 NOV 27 Meals: 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners Budget: Allow
lR
APR 03 APR 10 JUL 17 JUL 24 NOV 27 DEC 04 CUC60 for meals not included Tour Code: GACCB
io
cuba
colonial
15 DAYS, $1,889 fr Days 3-5: Trinidad Days 10-12: Baracoa
Continue onward to the colonial city of Trinidad, Situated on a beautiful bay with the mountains
start and finish: havana a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988, of the Sierra del Purial in the background,
and home to many beautiful Spanish-style Baracoa was the first settlement founded
Fabled Cuba remains a solitary outpost of churches and some truly impressive museums. by Diego Velázquez in 1512 and was only
socialist expression against the capitalist Explore Playa Ancón, with it's long stretches of accessible be sea until the 1960s. The quaint
might of the western world. You’ll step off the unspoiled, white sand beaches - an ideal spot to town boasts beautiful historic buildings,
plane into a world that consumerism has barely snorkel or swim. Get into the musical culture of including forts built to withstand pirate raids.
touched. Che Guevarra’s revolutionary spirit still Trinidad with two included salsa lessons. Surrounding Baracoa, the mountains and black
burns strongly through Cuban culture. You can sand beaches beckon to outdoor enthusiasts,
sense his almost mystical influence pervading Day 6: Camagüey with optional hiking excursions near El Yunque.
every strand of society. Raw history screams at Lying about halfway between Santa Clara and
you from just about every angle. The Spanish Santiago de Cuba, Camagüey is known for its Days 13-14: Baracoa / Havana
influences of yesteryear are still evident in the colonial past and its tinajones - large clay On Day 13 depart Baracoa for your flight to
colonial architecture, impassioned Catholicism receptacles for holding water. Also a university Havana. One of the oldest cities in the western
and flamboyant music and dance. Added to town, it has a rich tradition in music and hemisphere, Havana was designated a World
this is the quite remarkable scenery – every literature. Explore the narrow winding streets. Heritage site by UNESCO in 1982. It contains a
village and town seems to have been perfectly wealth of colonial architecture, and the old city
positioned against a green mountainous Days 7-9: Santiago de Cuba and streets around the malecon (ocean-side
landscape or an exquisite coastal panorama. This Go east along the Carretera Central to Santiago walkway) are best discovered on a walking tour.
quite awesome adventure whisks you around the de Cuba, known as the Cradle of the Revolution. Take a salsa or music lesson, rent a vintage
island and takes you to some places that time This is the province where Castro began the car or take a carriage ride through the old city.
seems to have simply forgotten about. Starting struggle against the Batista régime. Santiago You'll spend your last night relaxing at the bars
in Havana you’ll saunter along to Baracoa on the is also the home of traditional son rhythms, and clubs while listening to Cuba’s mesmerizing
far easterly tip with a frolicsome group of fellow which gave birth to salsa music. There are musical rhythms. Smoke a cigar and kick back.
explorers before you fly on back to where you many museums, colonial churches and historical
started. So light up a big fat Cuban cigar and buildings worth exploring, such as the Moncada Day 15: Depart Havana
enjoy the multiple pleasures of this beautiful Barracks, the site of Fidel Castro's first major Things finish up on Day 15, say a sad farewell.
Caribbean Island. attack on a key Batista government military
garrison. Also included is a visit to Castillo del
• Pay your respects to Che in Santa Clara Morro, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Snorkel and swim in Playa Ancón
• Learn to salsa dance in Trinidad
• Wander the winding streets of Camaguey
DEPARTURES
• Inhale the history of Santiago De Cuba START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH
2010 APR 17 MAY 01 AUG 07 AUG 21 DEC 25 JAN 08
• Listen to Pirate legends in Baracoa JAN 02 JAN 16 APR 24 MAY 08 AUG 21 SEP 04 2011
• Explore the mounatins around El Yunque JAN 09
JAN 16
JAN 23
JAN 30
MAY 01
MAY 08
MAY 15
MAY 22
SEP 04
SEP 18
SEP 18
OCT 02
JAN 01
JAN 08
JAN 15
JAN 22
• Enjoy a wild night out in Havana JAN 23 FEB 06 MAY 15 MAY 29 OCT 02 OCT 16 JAN 15 JAN 29
JAN 30 FEB 13 MAY 22 JUN 05 OCT 09 OCT 23 JAN 22 FEB 05
FEB 06 FEB 20 MAY 29 JUN 12 OCT 16 OCT 30 JAN 29 FEB 12
FEB 13 FEB 27 JUN 05 JUN 19 OCT 23 NOV 06 FEB 05 FEB 19
Day 1: Arrive Havana FEB 20 MAR 06 JUN 12 JUN 26 OCT 30 NOV 13 FEB 12 FEB 26
FEB 27 MAR 13 JUN 19 JUL 03 NOV 06 NOV 20 FEB 19 MAR 05
Arrive in Havana at any time. MAR 06 MAR 20 JUN 26 JUL 10 NOV 13 NOV 27 FEB 26 MAR 12
Havana •
MAR 13 MAR 27 JUL 03 JUL 17 NOV 20 DEC 04 MAR 05 MAR 19 Santa Clara •
MAR 20 APR 03 JUL 10 JUL 24 NOV 27 DEC 11 MAR 12 MAR 26 cuba
Trinidad •
Day 2: Santa Clara MAR 27 APR 10 JUL 17 JUL 31 DEC 04 DEC 18 MAR 19 APR 02 Camagúey • Baracoa •
APR 03 APR 17 JUL 24 AUG 07 DEC 11 DEC 25 MAR 26 APR 09
Santiago de Cuba •
Heading east along the island, arrive in Santa APR 10 APR 24 JUL 31 AUG 14 DEC 18 JAN 01
Clara, a key city in the Revolution. Santa Clara Accommodation: Hotels and/or homestays (14 nts) Transport: Private van, taxis,
local flight Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local
is probably most well-known as the home of guides Meals: No meals included Budget: Allow CUC375 for meals not included
Tour Code: GACCC
the statue of Ernesto Che Guevara at the Plaza
de la Revolución. The remains of Che and his
comrades, who fell in Bolivia, are interred in the for the full cuban experience
mausoleum at this site. Combine this with the Cuba Libre.
Check out page 127.
Over 41,000 discounts worldwide - Get your ISIC card now at STA Travel
129
CENTRAL AMERICA
havana
STAysimple STAysimple
What thoughts conjure up when you hear the words “Australia’s favourite The ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu; the spectacular Iguassu Falls; the
airline”? We could break out in song, but we won’t…much. We’re talking breathtaking Andean peaks of Chilean Patagonia; the crazy-sexy carnival
about our good mates at Qantas of course, and they certainly know how to atmosphere of Rio de Janeiro; just some of the many faces of South
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the world after all – over 88 years!
Flying LAN of course! These are just some of the many destinations served
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the 2008 and 2009 global Skytrax Awards for airline excellence.
Yep, LAN know their Latino stuff; they’ve got 80 years of experience up
their wing! And they fly to more than 50 South American destinations –
from the hub airports of Santiago (Chile), Buenos Aires (Argentina) and
Lima (Peru). Their route map continues to grow in 2010 too, with plans for
even more destinations, both within and beyond LAN’s 10-country network
in South America.
They’re always travelling, they love being free (come on, you’ve got to be
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And it doesn’t stop there. LAN is all for innovation, with initiatives including
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LAN is also a member of the Oneworld airline alliance, providing not only
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benefits for customers of Oneworld partners.
Put simply, LAN is the fave airline of choice for travellers from Australia
and New Zealand to South America. With daily flights, an extensive route
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you waiting for? Say hola to South America with LAN!
Add to this their fabulous new A380 airbus with new levels of comfort,
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largest jets and at the leading edge of fuel efficiency per passenger. Cheers
to that.
And really, what more can we say? Qantas are one of the world’s leading
long distance airlines. So belt out a bit of “I still call Australia home” and
fly away with Qantas.
GET FACE TO FACE WITH MORE INSPIRATION: