26 Days/ 25 Nights
Prior to the start of the Discovery Tour, we are able to arrange an optional tour to Galapagos Islands . We usually suggest a visit for 5 days or 8 days cruising around the islands. There are a range of 3/4/5 star cruise options available. Prices on request.
PROGRAM DAY-BY-DAY
DAY
DESCRIPTION
Day 1
Quito
On arrival transfer to your hotel.
Day 2
Quito (B)
Morning at leisure.
Afternoon scenic tour of Quito, the capital of Ecuador, will take you through its wealth of culture, history and tradition. Ending up at a lookout point with great scenic view.
Day 3
Otavalo (B,L)
Full day excursion to Otavalo.This excursion goes north, to the land of the Otavaleños and South America's most famous Indian fair
Day 4
Quito – Riobamba (B,L,D)
Transfer to the old train station of Quito to start the adventure. The one car "Chiva Express", which resembles a bus that runs of metal wheels along the train tracks, is ready to depart towards the south. As the Chiva Express advances along the ancient railway, the mood aboard makes you adjust to another tempo, and leisurely enjoy the way of traveling of past centuries. One of the highlights of the trip is to "ride the roof" with a panoramic view of the stunning Andean region of Ecuador. The Chiva Express ascends to the station of El Boliche, within the National Recreational Area of the same name, which is covered with pine trees, planted in 1928 as a scientific experiment to prove that foreign conifers could adapt to high-altitude ecosystems. White-tailed deer and many bird species have found an excellent refuge in these forests. Continue the voyage along the "Avenue of the Volcanoes" among magnificent natural scenery, to visit an Indian market. Farm products, wares and handicrafts are displayed everywhere on the plazas and the colorful fruits, vegetables and costumes provide countless opportunities for taking pictures. After lunch, continue toward the impressive mount Chimborazo, and visit the train station of Urbina, the highest point in the Quito & Guayaquil railway. Here is an Indian hut to observe the way of life of the inhabitants of the Andean region, the produce of the Andes and a loom to see the weaving process. There are also llamas and sheep. At the house of the station - which is used for climbers to acclimatize before ascending the Chimborazo- a typical hot drink of cinnamon and firewater (canelazo) is served. There is also a small workshop where tagua nut objects are being hand made. Continue on to Riobamba for a short visit of the city. Dinner and accommodation at the hotel in Riobamba.
Day 5
Riobamba – Cuenca (B,L,D)
After an early breakfast, transfer to the train station to board the Chiva Express for a scenic ride to Alausí. Twist and turn over the Andes, tunneling through rocky impasses, bridging ravines and river gorges. Ride past Cajabamba, Riobamba's original location, now beneath a huge scar on a hillside from the devastating earthquake of 1797. On the shore of Colta Lake is the Church of Balbanera, the oldest in Ecuador, built by the Spanish in 1534 . Arrive to Alausí and prepare to go down the Devil’s Nose switch backs, one of the most impressive feats of rail engineering in the world, and back to Alausí. Disembark in Alausí, and board the motorcar to continue the trip by road along the Andes towards the south. Arrival to Ingapirca for a visit to the Inca Ruins of Ingapirca. Upon arrival at Ingapirca stop at the on-site museum, and admire the stone fortress with several trapezoidal doorways and stone walls perfectly fit together, without mortar, of the Inca construction. There is an elliptical platform, known as the Temple of the Sun used for religious and ceremonial purposes, the barracks, the stone "Inca Face" and the zoomorphic carvings. Box lunch en-route. Continue on to Cuenca to arrive at dusk. Accommodations and all meals at the hotel in Cuenca.
Day 6
Cuenca (B,L,D)
Cuenca is Ecuador’s third largest city; yet it still retains its pleasant provincial air. Its red tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, flowery plazas and museums make it very special. Today guests will enjoy a full day to discover, at a leisurely pace, the beauty and charm for which Cuenca has been recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site. This is a walking tour in the colonial downtown area of Cuenca, an opportunity to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of its people, the colorful parks and plazas, religious monuments and handcraft shops, plus an explanation of Cuenca's history. Lunch is served at one of the cozy restaurants of the area. In the afternoon, visit a workshop where Panama straw hats of the best quality are made and then drive up to the hill of Turi to admire the city. The last visit is to the Museum of the Central Bank, and its very interesting ethnographic museum featuring lifesize figures of the many different Indian groups that inhabit Ecuador.
Day 7
Cuenca – Lima (B,L)
Depending on weather conditions, the full day visit today can be either to El Cajas National Park or Gualaceo Valley. At El Cajas the wind and drizzle can make it very cold, but the scenery surrounding the glacial lakes is splendid. Great for those who enjoy walking and hiking, observing flora, fauna and bird life. The excursion to Gualaceo goes through many small towns where different handcrafts are made.
Excursion to Cajas National Park. A jacket and walking shoes are necessary when heading for the area of Cajas, 19 miles (30 Km.) west of Cuenca. Cajas is lake country, a protected 28,800-hectare area starting at 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level; the region shows remains of intense volcanic activity and glaciation. The highest point is reached on the road at Three Crosses, the water divide of those than go to the Pacific and to the Atlantic. The wind and drizzle can make it very cold, but the scenery surrounding these 230 lakes is splendid, for walking and hiking, for observing flora, fauna and bird life. The vegetation includes small forests of quinua trees, a high protein grain. These dwarf forests are home to many species of birds like hummingbirds and the gray-breasted mountain toucan. The cold lakes of Cajas are full of trout, which is prepared in various ways for lunch. Return to Cuenca in the afternoon.
The valley of Gualaceo is 22 miles (36 kilometers) from Cuenca, at an elevation of 7,446 feet (2,370 meters) above sea level. The ride starts along the Santa Ana valley and then high in the mountains, through very scenic landscapes, which change at every curb. Stops are made at the small towns of San Bartolome where guitars are hand made and artistically finished and at Sigsig, where the toquilla straw is harvested and prepared to weave into the famous Panama hats. Proceed to Chordeleg, through orchards and sugar cane plantations, a small town with many stores selling jewelry in gold and silver. Chordeleg is also known for its green and yellow pottery. Lunch is at a very pleasant country inn, surrounded by flowering gardens and very close to the Santa Barbara river. After lunch, follow the road along the banks of the river, lined with weeping willows to the village of Gualaceo, famous for its Sunday market which sells mostly produce, animals, household goods and leather shoes. The valley of Gualaceo is famous for the production of peaches and there is a Peach Festival the first week of March. Visit another tiny town, Bulcay, where the weavers produce the finest shawls and scarves using backstrap looms and the technique of ikat, where the threads are tie-dyed to form specific designs before weaving. Return to Cuenca in the afternoon
This evening fly to Quito and connect by air to Lima .
On arrival transfer to your hotel
Day 8
Lima (B)
A morning city tour of Lima, capital of Peru, City of Kings and this afternoon visit the world famous Gold Museum where you can browse through artefacts from ancient cultures and learn more about Peru’s fascinating history.
Day 9
Lima – Cusco (B)
Fly into the Andes and beautiful Cusco, lying in exceptionally beautiful countryside 3400 metres above sea level, Here you will encounter a fine blend of Spanish and Inca cultures, colourful Quechua Indian markets, Inca temples and Spanish cathedrals.
Most of the central streets are lined with massive stonewalls built by the Incas and now form the foundations of Colonial Cusco. The city's Cathedral drips with magnificent colonial art and the Koricancha displays the best example of Inca stonework in Cusco. This afternoon enjoy a leisurely walking tour of the city followed by the impressive temple of Sacsayhuaman, the spring-shrine of Tambo Machay.
Day 10
Chinchero Market & Ollantaytambo (B,L)
Explore the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, which dominates the ancient town.
Next stop is Chinchero Market, the most authentic and colourful market in Peru, at over 4000 meters above sea level set in fabulous scenery. This is the real Andes. After plenty of time to browse, bargain and take great photos, continue to the Sacred Valley of the Incas for lunch at a local restaurant – try their delicious local fruit icecream. After lunch visit the impressive Inca site of Ollantaytambo with its ancient village lying below-just as it was back in Inca times .Stay overnight in this beautiful valley
Day 11
Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu (B,L)
It’s up early for one of the world’s great train journeys from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Passing through fabulous scenery we travel towards the jungle. Arrive at Aguas Calientes. Catch the bus up to Machu Picchu.
Suddenly it is spread out before you like a giant picture postcard. Enjoy a 2 hour guided tour, explore on your own and discover the mysteries of this lost civilisation and admire their workmanship and the unique location of this magical citadel.
Return by bus down the zigzag mountain road to Agua Calientes for overnight
Day 12
Machu Picchu – Cusco (B)
This morning the opportunity for an optional return visit to Machu Picchu at sunrise .
Or a free morning to explore the markets and/or soak in the hot mineral pools. This afternoon return by the train to Cusco. Transfer to your hotel.
Day 13
Cusco - Arequipa (B)
Transfer from the hotel to the airport and connect by air to Arequipa. Transfer to your hotel, rest of morning at leisure .this afternoon a city tour of Arequipa, also known as 'the White City’ because of the white volcanic rock, sillar, used in its constructions. You will visit the beautiful Santa Catalina convent, founded in 1580.This convent is an almost self-sustained village, made up of houses for the nuns and their servants, cloisters, plazas and narrow streets, kitchens, refectory and laundry. From there proceed to the Jesuit Church, where you will be impressed by the beauty of its facade, considered the best example of the mestizo baroque style in Arequipa. The ancient vestry is particularly beautiful with its cupola and walls covered in murals that recall the jungle. The ancient Jesuit seminary is famous for its beautiful principal cloister. After visiting the Main Plaza continue to the residential districts of Yanahuara and Chilina, where you will have a magnificent view of Arequipa's countryside and the Misti volcano.
Day 14
Arequipa - Colca (B,L,D)
Early morning departure for a 2 day overland trip to the Colca
Valley. Drive across Pampa Canahuas within the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, the habitat of herds of vicunas. Admire beautiful pre-Columbian terraces where native Collaguas. Still work.(Lunch included)
Dinner and overnight at your lodge in Colca
Day 15
Colca-Puno (B,L)
Early departure to'Condors'Cross',observation point from where you can view these great Andean birds. Impressive panorama of the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world (3,000 mts/9,800 ft)Then departure overland across the altiplano to Puno.
Day 16
Uros Islands (B,L)
Enjoy a complete day of sailing in Titicaca Lake, the highest navigable lake in the world. Depart early in the morning for the floating islands of Uros, where the inhabitants still live as they did centuries ago, on floating islands they make with the totora reeds that grow on the lake. Continue sailing towards Taquile Island for a 30 minute, hike towards its small town inhabited by Quechua speaking natives who have, over the generations, developed both an efficient and original social system as well as a refined handweaving technique. Lunch will be served in a local house that serves as a restaurant. After lunch we will explore the island and you can appreciate the magnificent views of Lake Titicaca. After this trek you will embark and return to Puno
Day 17
Puno – La Paz (B,L)
From Sunrise to Sunset on the Sacred Lake. Travel from Puno and transfer to Juli; Visit the churches of Pomata & Juli and the local native market. Then join the Hydrofoil cruise to Moon Island, visit the Sun Virgins Temple Iñak Uyu. Continue to Sun Island, visit the Inca Staircase & Sacred fountain, taste the sacred water believed to give eternal youth & happiness. Lunch at "Uma Kollu" archaeological restaurant and visit a picturesque handicraft market. Continue by Hydrofoil crossing Tiquina Straits, arriving Huatajata to experience the Andean Roots Eco Village, The Altiplano Museum, where a system of art audio explain in your own language the cultural heritage of the Aymaras and the Incas, the colonial time and Jacques Cousteau Expedition to Lake Titicaca. Handicrafts and fisherman villages, the Mud Igloos of the Uru Chipayas; meet the Limachi brothers, builders of the RA II and Tigris for Thor Heyerdhal epic expeditions across the Atlantic Ocean. Spend some time at the Kallawaya Natural Spa where we use thousand years’ old methods and treatments for stress, well-being, and cosmetology.
Continue by coach across the altiplano to La Paz
Day 18
La Paz (B)
This morning you will get your bearings on a city tour, which includes the weird landscapes of the Moon Valley. Learn about the dubious history of Bolivia and enjoy the complete contrast of this busy city where ancient cultures sit side by side with modern skyscrapers and chaotic traffic of the new millennium. This afternoon you are free to browse through the many colourful markets near your hotel.
Day 19
La Paz – Asuncion (B)
An early start as we say ‘adios’ to the Andes and fly via Santa Cruz to Asuncion in the heart of South America.
Transfer to your hotel.
Day 20
Asuncion – Iguassu Falls (B)
Situated on the Paraguay river , with a mix of colonial and modern architecture,
we have a tour of the city en route to the airport for your flight to Iguassu. First transfer to the Argentine side of the Falls . These falls defy description! Gasp at the majesty of the world's most spectacular waterfalls. Set in pristine rainforest with countless birds and butterflies, Situated on the borders of Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil they plunge in a series of gigantic waterfalls over 3kms long and more than 80 meters high. The thunderous roar of crashing water and the multicoloured mist is natural beauty at its best. It is undoubtedly one of the world's most impressive sights – see the mighty Devils Throat . Transfer across to the Brazilian town of Foz do Iguassu where you stay overnight.
Day 21
Iguacu Falls – Rio de Janeiro (B)
This morning visit the Brazil side for an amazing and very photogenic panoramic view of these magical falls. Connect to the airport for your flight to Rio.
Transfer to your hotel in Copacabana
Day 22
Rio de Janeiro (B)
Welcome to Rio de Janeiro – river of January – is a beautiful city full of vibrant people. Brazilians say “ God made the world in 6 days – the 7th day he devoted to Rio”. Stunning views from famous Sugar Loaf Mountain as begin our sightseeing by local bus and gondola.
This afternoon enjoy the cogwheel train straight up the mountainside to the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer (Corcovado) and even more stunning views.
Day 23
Rio de Janeiro (B)
Today enjoy the famous beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana and a ride on the local bus is not to be missed. Enjoy the scenery - and I mean the people - and the atmosphere. Browse through the famous Ipanema Hippie Fair and admire the Brazilian arts and crafts – maybe buy a bargain or two.
Day 24
Rio de Janeiro – Buenos Aires ( B)
Morning flight to the “Paris of the Americas “ - Buenos Aires where you will have time for a walking tour of the city.
Optional visit to the San Telmo Antique Market, held every Sunday.
Day 25
Buenos Aires (B)
Morning tour visiting the most outstanding sites. Departing from the Hotel to get to 9 de Julio Ave. the widest in the world, past the famous Colon Opera house, the Obelisk commemorating the first founding of the city in 1536 to get to Plaza de Mayo (May Square), and the buildings surrounding it: Government House, Metropolitan Cathedral with the Mausoleum of General San Martin, Argentina’s greatest national hero and the Cabildo, the colonia town hall built in 1751. Then on to La Boca, typically Italian district, where first Italian immigrants settled and ‘Caminito’ street. The tour continues to Buenos Aires port area, past San Martín Square towards Palermo Chico residential district and Palermo Park with its jacaranda and palo borracho trees which flower in the spring and late summer. The ride continues to Recoleta elegant district to visit Recoleta Cemetery where the famous are laid to rest (including Eva Peron). Return to the hotel along the stylish Alvear Ave.
Afternoon at leisure
Day 26
Buenos Aires (B)
You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight
PRICES AND GENERAL INFO (Prices are person in US$)
Departures: Fridays Group Departures: 23 May , 6 August , 10 September ( Group departures on a 4 star only basis )
Inclusions:
accommodation in 3 or 4 or 5 star hotels all rooms with private facilities , local service charges & hotel taxes, transfers and tours as specified in the itinerary accompanied by local English speaking guides , local airfares ( Cuenca –Quito-Lima-Cusco-Arequipa& La Paz-Iguassu-Rio-Buenos Aires including applicable taxes, meals as specified each day (B=Breakfast,L=lunch,D=Dinner)
Exclusions:
International airfares to Quito and from Buenos Aires ,items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities , airport taxes, excess baggage charges, meals not specified in itinerary .
We can assist you in choosing the right airline to complement your selected holiday package or tour. Safety and comfort are paramount together with consideration for the right price, number of stops, frequent flyer points, cabin space/leg room/seat pitch, flight time , arrival/departure times and class of travel . We carefully select airlines that offer options to suit most budgets , flight frequencies and excellent service . To receive an estimate, please call Toll Free at 0800 5687639 (JOURNEYS) - within NZ only or 64 3 4435036 or send an email to us.
Website is for research purposes only.
Prices are per person, per package, in US Dollars.
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SOUTH AMERICA DISCOVERY
ABOUT THE PACKAGE
26 Days/ 25 Nights
Prices are per person, per package, in US Dollars. 
