Cuzco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu By World Journeys
Cuzco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu By World Journeys
An ideal introduction to Cuzco and Machu Picchu and the delightful Sacred Valley of the Incas. This area is very rich in history and culture, being the heartland of the Inca Empire when it was at its peak. You’ll visit the amazing Inca sites of Maras, Moray and Ollantaytambo in addition to the jewel in the crown, Machu Picchu. End your time in charming Cuzco, once the Inca ‘Capital of the World’.
Discover Cuzco and Machu Picchu while staying in stylish historic hotels. Enjoy a famous journey on board the luxury Belmond Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu. Visit the Land of the Inca in the most luxurious and memorable way possible.
The route itself is 57 miles and lasts about three and a half hours in each direction. You’ll traverse the Sacred Valley of the Incas, stretching from Ollantaytambo to Písac along Urubamba River (the Sacred River). Expect to be mesmerized by the sight of its vast mountains and deep green valleys, complete with roaming llamas. As the scenery changes from ancient towns to lush cloud forest, the sense of adventure and discovery is unparalleled.
Belmond Hiram Bingham: In its Pullman-style carriages you’ll find polished wood, sumptuous upholstered armchairs and beautiful antique fittings. Surrender to old-world charm in our vintage carriages, where shining wood furnishings and polished brass details harmonise with nature-inspired motifs.
Explore the heart of South America, Peru and its rich in history, customs and culture. Visit the heart of the Inca empire in Cuzco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, then visit the charming town of Arequipa and experience the wondrous Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world and home to the magnificent Andean condor.
Three and a half hours scenic drive from Quito lies Mashpi Lodge – a cocoon in the cloud forest situated on its own private 1,100 hectares of the endangered Choco forest and surrounded by another 18,400 hectares of natural protected area. With incredibly rich biodiversity, the area is internationally renowned as one of the best places on earth for bird watching. The area is free of malaria.
Hosting up to 48 guests, the award winning luxury lodge offers tasteful accommodation without trying to compete with the real attraction – the forest outside! Picture windows everywhere allows guests to feel part of their surroundings and at night, the only lights outside are the dance of myriad fireflies or the sparkle of the stars. An exciting addition to the Mashpi Lodge activities is the introduction of the ’Dragonfly’, a gondola system that gently glides guests and their naturalist guide more than 2 km through the jungle canopy. Great food and expert guides so knowledgeable in all facets of flora and fauna found in this unique environment, will create enduring memories.
This land-based Galapagos adventure offers a mixture of wildlife, marine activities and great food while staying at boutique hotels. Visit the islands of San Cristobal, Isabela and Santa Cruz, each very different and offering a wonderful array of experiences that unfold with the help of expert local naturalist guides. An ideal alternative to explore areas not possible to reach on the regular Galapagos Island cruises, and to better interact with the local people.
Colombia is a country of incredible beauty, excitement, charm and diversity just waiting to be discovered. In the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Bogota, see the magnificent Gold Museum crammed with priceless pre-Colombian treasures, the amazing Salt Cathedral and taste some of the local delicacies. Continue to Medellin with its ongoing innovative urban transformations, traditional mountain villages and great shopping. Cartagena, the UNESCO Heritage listed walled city on the Caribbean coast, said to be ‘more Spanish than Spain’. Learn about the pirate history and explore the enchanting narrow streets of the old town while soaking up the Afro-Caribbean flavour.
There is possibly no country with a more varied climate and landscape than Chile. Santiago, the modern and cosmopolitan capital is a gateway to the driest place on earth, the incredible Atacama Desert to the north. The landscape is harsh but extraordinarily beautiful and, surprisingly, wildlife abounds! To the far South in Patagonia, the Andes rise above a glorious wilderness of pristine lakes and magnificent scenery. The luxury accommodation on this journey is as outstanding as your memories will be of this remarkable country.
The Pantanal is the largest continuous wetland on the planet, containing elements of the Amazon forest, the Caatinga, the Brazilian Savannah, the Atlantic Rainforest and the Paraguayan Chaco. This fantastic biodiversity includes approximately 698 species of birds, 80 species of mammals, 260 species of fish, and 50 species of reptiles. Unlike the dense foliage found in the Amazon, the open marshes of the Pantanal make it ideal for wildlife observation – from jaguars, anteaters, foxes, jabiru storks, marsh deer, or tapirs. Set amidst this is the Araras Ecolodge, a perfect base from which to explore this remarkable area.
Your accommodation: Araras Ecolodge is a comfortable, self-sustained property built in the traditional ‘pantaneiro’ farm style with 19 ensuite rooms each with hot and cold shower, screened windows, ceiling fan and air-conditioning. Meals are prepared with organic products from the local area. The lodge set on a 2760 ha private reserve has a bar, swimming pool, free wi-fi area, large verandahs with hammocks and three exciting observation towers.
Travel from Cuzco to Puno and Lake Titicaca through the heartland of the Inca Empire. Begin by touring Lima, for so long the most important city in the Americas during Spanish colonial times. Continue to Cuzco visiting ruins, temples and the Sacred Valley of the Incas before reaching the iconic Lost City of Machu Picchu. Then to Puno, visiting the floating reed islands before crossing beautiful Lake Titicaca, believed to be the birthplace of the Incas, to La Paz.
Bolivia is a fascinating country rich in culture and history. Begin in La Paz, the highest capital city in the world, with a pronounced indigenous influence reflected in the bowler hats worn by its Aymara women. Sucre is the constitutional capital of Bolivia renowned for its white washed buildings and famous museums, whilst Potosi was the largest and wealthiest city in the Western Hemisphere during the 17th Century. The Spanish plundered incredible quantities of silver from this region, and evidence of earlier wealth can still be seen in buildings with elaborate baroque facades and a host of fine museums. The trip ends in Uyuni, a gateway to the largest salt flats in the world.
An amazing natural phenomena, the waterfalls at Iguazu are the most spectacular found on the planet. Situated at the border between Argentina and Brazil, it is essential to see the falls from both sides as each offers a completely different vista. Don’t miss visiting them, we guarantee you will not be disappointed!
**Gran Melia Iguazu Hotel**
Set inside the Argentine National Park, it is only a short walk from this 5 star hotel to the falls. Choose from either Jungle View or Falls View rooms.
**Belmond Hotel Das Cataratas**
The only hotel situated inside the National Park on the Brazilian side, this luxury hotel is unquestionably the most luxurious accommodation found on either side of the falls.
**La Reserva Virgin Lodge**
La Reserva Virgin Lodge offers luxury and comfort with spacious and modern rooms. You will stay in the heart of Selva Iryapú Jungle, 10 minutes drive from the panoramic Iguazu Falls.
Experience the very best of enchanting Ecuador, staying at the luxury Casa Gangotena Hotel in the heart of historic Quito to discover this gem of a city. Move into the nature theme with two nights at the award-winning Mashpi Lodge, set in the Cloud Forest where the Amazon Basin and the Andes meet to create a home to an incredible diversity of birds, plants, animals and insects. Later cruise for five days in style around the Galapagos islands, a life-changing experience.
Award-winning Sacha Lodge is found within a 5,000 hectare private ecological reserve in the pristine rainforest of Ecuador’s Amazon. Ideal for families and individuals alike, the lodge offers specialist guided activities to view wildlife and flora including walking forest trails; treetop observation tower; the 275m long and 30m high Sacha Bird Walk; boating in dug-out canoes and visiting the parrot clay licks. At the lodge you can swim or fish in the beautiful lake to relax. Each of the 26 carefully designed cabins has high thatched roofs, private bathrooms, fans and hammocks on a private shade terrace. Meals are shared on the outdoor dining terrace and there is also an indoor bar with roof top viewing platform!
Please note that this itinerary is just an example of what you may experience at Sacha Lodge. Daily activities will be discussed with the guides during your visit, and will be varied to suit the season, and guest wishes.
Explore the mighty Amazon on foot and on the river. In Cuzco, stay in a colonial mansion dating from the 16th Century and once occupied by the first conquistadors from Spain. Highlights will include the iconic Belmond Hiram Bingham train from Machu Picchu and the luxury Peruvian Highlands sleeper train from Cuzco to Lake Titicaca and onto the delightful ‘White City’ of Arequipa. For those who relish history in comfort and style, this is the itinerary for you!
Santiago to La Paz - Atacama & the Uyuni Salt Flats By World Journeys
Santiago to La Paz - Atacama & the Uyuni Salt Flats By World Journeys
Discover some of the world’s most out-of-this-world landscapes in Northern Chile and Bolivia. Explore the wonders of the Atacama Desert – moonscapes, geysers, canyons and turquoise lakes. See Laguna Colorada or the red lagoon, which draws in thousands of flamingos. Finish with the Uyuni Salt Flats, one of the world’s highest deserts, surrounded by mountains and volcanoes that reaches 5000 metres. This journey is a photographers dream! This remarkable tour ends in La Paz from where you can combine with our Birthplace of the Incas tour.
Begin your tour in Rio de Janeiro, notorious for its stunning scenery nestled between lush-green mountains and incredible beaches. Continue north to Salvador, the first capital of Brazil and a major centre for the slave trade that is today a thriving centre of Afro-Brazilian culture. Finally spend some time in the 17th century Baroque gem that is Ouro Preto, which became the focal point during Brazil’s golden age in the 18th century.
Ancient cultures and rich heritage await you in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. You’ll marvel at spectacular wildlife in the Galapagos Islands with massive tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions and more. The Amazon rainforest offers a vastly different wildlife experience as you search for monkeys, sloths, toucans, macaws and river otters. Visit the awe-inspiring ancient city of Machu Picchu before finishing in La Paz.
Experience the magical scenery of southern Chile with its lakes, mountains and volcanoes. Visit the charming island of Chiloe and then cross the Andean lakes and mountains by bus and boat to Bariloche, Argentina.
Explore South America’s southern frontier, Patagonia, a vast, beautiful and remote land. With jagged peaks and pristine lakes, you’ll be in awe of the natural beauty. Highlights will be two national parks. See Torres del Paine National Park known for its soaring mountains, electric-blue icebergs and golden lowlands providing a home to the Guanaco, Puma and South Andean Deer. Followed by Los Glaciares National Park where you can see breathtaking Glaciar Perito Moreno, one of the earth’s most dynamic and accessible ice fields.
European atmosphere, the passionate tango, superb cuisine and a shopper’s paradise, Buenos Aires offers you many unforgettable highlights. It is a wonderful and elegant city that perfectly fits its reputation as the ‘Paris of the Americas’. Whilst there, visit charming Colonia del Sacramento, a short ferry ride across the River Plate in Uruguay.
Northwest Argentina: Salta & Surrounds By World Journeys
Northwest Argentina: Salta & Surrounds By World Journeys
Explore the fertile valleys and high mountains of Northwest Argentina, exploring a region of stunning landscapes, contrasting high peaks, plains and salt pans. Salta is home to forts and historic buildings dating back to the time of the Spanish conquest and early colonization. Visit Purmamarca with its mountains a riot of colour from the minerals they contain and Cafayate, home to the superb the Torrentes wine growing area. Rugged, beautiful and little visited by tourists, this area is a hidden gem.
Explore the tango capital of the world, Buenos Aires, before travelling to the winelands. Dominated by the Andes and surrounded by world class Malbec grape vineyards and olive groves, Mendoza is a delight, and a must for wine-lovers. End your time with a visit to unquestionably the world’s most spectacular waterfalls at Iguazu, where hundreds of cataracts tumble in a stunning sub-tropical rainforest setting. The very best Argentina can offer awaits you in this tour.
During this four-day trek you immerse yourself in the Andean world, visiting different archaeological sites while also enjoying nature and a variety of ecosystems. You’ll enjoy stunning mountain and cloud forest scenery, and explore ruins dating back to Inca times. On the final day of the trek you pass through the famous Sun Gate entrance to the citadel of Machu Picchu – your first glimpse of the ruins from high above will be a memory that will remain with you always.
Let us tailor-make your itinerary to include travel arrangements before and/or after this journey.
During this four-day trek you immerse yourself in the Andean world, visiting different archaeological sites while also enjoying nature and a variety of ecosystems. You’ll enjoy stunning mountain and cloud forest scenery, and explore ruins dating back to Inca times. On the final day of the trek you pass through the famous Sun Gate entrance to the citadel of Machu Picchu – your first glimpse of the ruins from high above will be a memory that will remain with you always.
Choquequirao, a name that translates to ‘Cradle of Gold’, is a mystical 500 year old Inca city. The extensive ruins, three times the size of Machu Picchu, are located in the saddle of a high Andean ridge at 3030 metres, so a good level of fitness is required to complete the 64 Km return trek. It is thought that the Inca Emperor Pachacuti, responsible for commissioning Machu Picchu, founded Choquequirao before his son Tupaq Inka Yupanki extended and remodelled it.
The trek along some extraordinarily scenic stretches of Inca pathways provides a unique alternative to the much busier Inca Trail and complements a visit to Machu Picchu. Restoration of Choquequirao began in the 1970s, and although the site is not as well-known as Machu Picchu, you will find a very similar structure and architecture albeit on a larger scale. A visit to these incredible ruins is well worth the effort!
Santiago is a dynamic and progressive city and as a gateway to South America, it offers a great introduction to the continent. Located near the heartland of Chilean wine production and close to the historic port of Valparaiso, a few days in this region provide the perfect stopover before the wonders of the Atacama Desert to the north or beautiful Patagonia in the south.
Easter Island, situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is a mix of Polynesian and South American cultures. This mystical Chilean island is endowed with ‘moai’ or stone statues, thought to be a representation of past ancestors. Myths and legends abound, with religions and beliefs epitomised in the island dances.
This journey combines a visit to the historic town of Colonia del Sacramento, a stop in the capital city of Montevideo and a boutique winery stay. European immigrants introduced many varieties of cheese and wine to Uruguay, leaving the country with a legacy of vineyards, wineries, artisan cheese producers and olive oil plantations. Discover both the touristic and culinary highlights of Uruguay, and be prepared to be very pleasantly surprised by this ‘under the radar’ destination.
The Chilean Coast & Wine Valleys By World Journeys
The Chilean Coast & Wine Valleys By World Journeys
Tour the highlights that lie within Santiago’s reach, including the coastal resort of Vina del Mar and the colourful port town of Valparaiso. Also head inland to the beautiful Valley of Colchagua – home to many of Chile’s new boutique wineries and stay in the charming town of Santa Cruz.
Framed by summits which once housed the Inca civilization and zigzagging along the waters of the Urubamba River, the Sacred Valley, Cuzco and Machu Picchu are destinations with endless exploration possibilities.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is an area of extraordinary beauty, situated around an hour’s drive from Cuzco. An advantage of staying at the Explora Sacred Valley Hotel is that you are nearly 600 metres lower than Cuzco and acclimatization to altitude is much easier at these levels. You will not notice the higher altitude by the time you return to the city. The hotel contains 44 spacious and well-appointed rooms and six suites located in one of the region’s most remote and ancient corn plantations close to the Urquillos village. It is designed in line with its surroundings, generating a dialogue with the high Andean mountains as well as the surrounding plantations that are still being harvested by townspeople today. Explora Sacred Valley is renowned for its fine cuisine, featuring both international and local dishes.
Over 30 included tour options by vehicle, foot or mountain bike are inspired by its unique geography, Inca ruins and the authenticity of its people. Our explorations, always led by a competent and bilingual guide, take place in English or Spanish for groups of up to eight people. Travellers will explore the colonial history of Cusco, and architectural magnificence of the Incas in Machu Picchu, discover isolated villages, and marvel at archaeological sites such as Ollantaytambo, Moray, Chinchero and Pisac.
This itinerary can be tailor-made, with the number of days, places visited, and activities varied to suit you.
Ecuador is a little gem of South America that will surprise you with its diverse highlights. This tour will start in Quito and then travel to the province of Imbabura, home of the Otavalo Indians who still preserve their rich culture. Travel through the gorgeous Ecuadorian countryside along some sections of the legendary Inca Royal roads, staying in local haciendas, visiting local communities and markets along the way. A fitting end to this fabulous itinerary is a four-night cruise in the wildlife haven of the Galapagos Islands! Cruising is aboard the 40-passenger Yacht Isabela II with spacious ensuite cabins, expert naturalist guides and daily excursions.
Why not join in the greatest party on earth, the iconic Carnival in Rio? Held annually in the days leading up to Lent, the carnival sees the whole of Brazil in celebration mode with street parades and parties that culminate in a crescendo of colour in the grand parade. Held over two nights, eight Samba clubs (known locally as ‘schools’) parade each night. In each ‘school’ there are 5000 performers dressed in amazing costumes and accompanied by some incredibly ornate floats. Come and join in – you will not believe how much fun it can be!
Start in Quito before departing on a four-day immersion into the Andean World. Travel along the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Cuenca, with visits to centuries old haciendas and discover the local culture, history, Andean flavours, traditions and legends of the ancestral people.
Cruise the Brazilian Amazon from Manaus aboard the 9-cabin motor yacht Tucano. It small agile size (25 m) allows you to leave the main tourist paths far behind, exploring the most remote reaches.
Venture among the remote tributaries of the Amazon, principally the Rio Negro River, into Jau National Park. Explore by foot, by kayak, or on skiffs to where the magnificent plants and animals reign supreme. You’ll also visit the Encontro das Aguas (Meeting of the Waters), the confluence of the Rio Negro and Solimoes Rivers. Also enjoy cultural visits with locals, wildlife spotting by night with nocturnal creatures, and Brazilian Caipirinha Night (cocktails and samba!).
Your ship: the M/Y Tucano
Everything about this vessel, from design to operations, is about allowing guests to truly experience this wild environment. Although not a luxury vessel, the Tucano offers comfortable air-conditioned accommodation in a selection of 9 outside cabins, all with private ensuite bathrooms. The large observation deck is a wonderful place to spot wildlife, and a generous salon serves as a dining room and lounge, with wonderful views of the rainforest.
Cabins:
Yellow cabin: A total of five spacious cabin featuring large windows, two single beds, a small night table and private bathrooms. Beds can also be converted into a queen size bed.
Blue cabin: perfect for single travellers, these cabins feature a single twin bed, large windows, private bathroom and space for personal items. These cabins can also be converted into “green cabins” with bunk bed layout on request.
Green cabin: There are two staterooms in this category each featuring comfortable bunk beds with large windows and private bathrooms.
Discover the wilderness of Patagonia from the luxurious Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa. Perfectly positioned to offer magnificent views of the Torres del Paine National Park with its soaring mountains, electric-blue icebergs and golden lowlands. Spend your days in the National Park hiking, biking, horse riding, or sightseeing led by expert guides.
**Take a quick look at the Tierra Patagonia Experience**
Amazon Cruise - Aria Amazon & Aqua Nera By World Journeys
Amazon Cruise - Aria Amazon & Aqua Nera By World Journeys
Cruise the Peruvian Amazon from Iquitos aboard Aqua Expeditions’ 16-cabin Aria Amazon, or 20-cabin Aqua Nera, luxury motor yacht.
Experience a rare insight into the very heart of the Amazon – the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Every day, expert naturalist guides conduct small group excursions that reward guests with up-close wildlife encounters, including kayaking, canoeing, guided hikes and village visits in the world’s most biodiverse rainforest. At the end of the day enjoy a sundowner drink on the deck or perhaps a dip in the jacuzzi or plunge pool as life on the Amazon gently glides by.
Enjoy cuisine created by acclaimed Peruvian chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, celebrated for his innovative use of native Amazonian ingredients. Outstanding onboard accommodation completes the world class experience.
Your ship: Aria Amazon
Spacious and indulgent, yet private enough to feel entirely exclusive, the Aria Amazon (45 m) accommodates a maximum of 32 guests in 16 air-conditioned luxury Design Suites, each with private ensuite bathrooms, and generous picture windows offering superb river views from the 23 sqm cabin.
First deck: 8 Design Suites with one pair of interconnecting suites. Also on this deck is the launchpad for excursions.
Second deck: 8 Design Suites. This deck also houses the boutique, galley and dining room.
Top deck: The place to unwind and socialize at spaces such as the indoor and outdoor lounge and bar, and the outdoor jacuzzi. The massage and exercise rooms are also here.
Your ship: Aqua Nera
Launched in 2021, the state-of-the-art Aqua Nera (62.4 m) is the epitome of luxury, with a contemporary design style drawing inspiration from the Amazon’s blackwater lagoons. 20 spacious Design Suites accommodate up to 40 guests with a sense of tranquility, while the social spaces showcase refined elegance. Tastefully woven into the design are accents and details from the rubber boom era and the colourful cultures of Portugal, Spain and Peru.
First deck: 10 Design Suites with two pairs of interconnecting suites. This deck also houses the spa and infirmary, as well as the launchpad for excursions.
Second deck: 10 Design Suites with two pairs of interconnecting suites. This deck also houses the boutique, galley and dining room.
Top deck: The place to unwind and socialize at spaces such as the games room, indoor and outdoor lounge, plunge pool, and movie screening room.
**Watch a great video on the experiences from past passengers on board the Aria Amazon**
4 Days / 3 Nights or longer from $7,080 Price Per Person
Whether your interests lie in observing the natural wildlife of the Galapagos, enjoying world-class diving, exploring lava fields, relaxing on the beach or just a bit of everything, why not consider staying in this multi-award winning Eco-hotel. Located a 5 minute water taxi ride from the town of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, this is the ideal spot to relax at either end of a cruise or if you prefer to be land based and take day excursions to nearby islands. Relaxed style and great accommodation along with wonderful food and some superb day excursions are what make this hotel, considered one of the best in the Galapagos, so popular.
South America is simply magical, overflowing with ancient history and packed with culture. On this journey through Argentina, Peru and Brazil, you’ll tick off most of the must see sights. Begin in stylish Buenos Aires with a wonderful tango show, continuing on to the world’s most spectacular waterfalls at Iguazu. Beautiful Rio de Janeiro with ‘Christ the Redeemer’ precedes the rich history and culture found in Peru, including the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ at Machu Picchu. End your journey with a cruise on the beautifully reflective waters of Lake Titicaca.
Luxury Peru & the Uyuni Salt Flats By World Journeys
Luxury Peru & the Uyuni Salt Flats By World Journeys
Experience the very best of Peru and Bolivia in complete luxury. Starting in Lima you will explore this fascinating city with its mix of colonial and modern architecture and some of the best cuisine in Latin America. Next, fly to Cuzco and transfer to the Sacred Valley of the Incas – the former heartland of the Incan empire and home to many fantastic Inca sites. Travel by train to the world-famous ancient citadel of Machu Picchu – the Lost City, before returning to the ancient city of Cuzco which was once the Inca ‘Capital of the World’. In La Paz, spend some time exploring the city before ending your trip with a stay in Uyuni to explore the world’s largest salt flats, Salar de Uyuni.
The Atacama is one of the driest, most beautiful and serene deserts on earth. In some places, rain has not touched the earth for the past 300 years. There are lunar-landscape canyons, lush valleys, huge salt pans literally filled with flamingos.
Stay at the luxury boutique Tierra Atacama Hotel and spa located on the edge of San Pedro de Atacama. The hotel offers fine dining with an open bar, an amazing selection of included sightseeing activities and world-class spa facilities. All rooms have private terraces and wonderful view of the Licancabur Volcano. The interior decoration is casually elegant and features unique hand-made textiles and crafts sourced from local villages that provide authentic desert cultural pieces in each room.
Daily excursions and activities at Tierra Atacama include treks on foot and by 4WD, birdwatching and cultural visits. A range of “Ancestral” excursions allows a glimpse of life in the local communities with their rich heritage of traditions.
Combine Argentina’s bustling cosmopolitan capital of Buenos Aires with the vast and beautiful southern landscapes of Patagonia, a remote land with jagged peaks and pristine lakes famous for its awesome natural beauty. Enjoy highlights of both El Calafate and the Los Glaciares National Park, famous for the breathtaking Perito Moreno glacier, one of the earth’s most dynamic and accessible ice fields. In Ushuaia, you will stay in the southernmost city in the world. Squeezed tightly between the Beagle Canal and surrounded by the Martial Mountain’s and rich in history, Ushuaia is the gateway to Antarctica and offers a unique Argentine landscape of mountains, the ocean, glaciers and forests.
European atmosphere, passionate tango, diverse cuisine and a shopper’s paradise, Buenos Aires will be an unforgettable experience. After spending time in this elegant and sophisticated city, visit one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls, Iguazu Falls, where hundreds of cataracts tumble down amongst stunning sub-tropical rainforest.
Amazonian rainforest, Incan ruins, colonial towns, white sandy beaches, and unique wildlife – the wonders of South America make for an incredible experience. Take this journey visiting six amazing countries, starting off in the Amazon jungle before cruising the Galapagos Islands. Visit the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ at Machu Picchu, explore Lake Titicaca, marvel at the mighty waterfalls of Iguazu, and embrace the beautiful cities of Quito, Lima, Buenos Aires, and Rio de Janeiro. You’ll fall in love with the rich history and vast range of cultures, colours and sights, all in comfort and style.
**YOUR JOURNEY AT A GLANCE **
• Explore the wonders of the Amazon rainforest with a three night stay at stunning Sacha Lodge
• 5-day Galapagos Islands cruise on board the Isabela II
• Discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru, the majestic Andean Mountains reflecting in the azure waters of Lake Titicaca, and the incredible Iguazu Falls
• Quito, with the most beautiful historic centre of any Latin American capital city
• Rio de Janeiro’s natural beauty and vibrant beach culture
• A World Journeys host to guide you every step of the way
**SPECIAL EXPERIENCES**
**Stay in an eco-lodge in the pristine Amazon Rainforest**
Experience the wonders of the Amazon rainforest staying at the famous Sacha Lodge with its spectacular canopy walk, a birdwatching tower, and butterfly house.
**Encounter the wildlife of the Galapagos**
The wildlife both above and below the waterline in the Galapagos is incredible. With strict limits on visitor numbers, you will be one of a privileged few who get to enjoy this experience.
**Be immersed in the ancient history of Peru**
Visit the marvellous Larco Herrera Museum located in an 18th century mansion, surrounded by beautiful gardens. We will see the museum’s amazing archaeological collection.
**Learn to dance the tango in Buenos Aires**
Learn to dance the tango and enjoy a delicious dinner followed by a multi award-winning tango show.
Discover the captivating spirit of Ecuadorian national parks and reserves on an immersive tailor-made itinerary. Created for those seeking both natural beauty and thrilling wildlife encounters. Start in Quito and venture into the misty embrace of the Cloud Forest, alive with a symphony of birds and unique mammals, before you journey into the unparalleled biodiversity of the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest. Visit Yasuni National Park Reserve and prepare to be enchanted by the incredible diversity of wildlife. Explore the subtropical forests of Quijos Valley and the serene, high-altitude landscapes of the Andes, where snow-capped peaks watch over a mosaic of ecosystems.
Cruise the Peruvian Amazon from Iquitos aboard the 14-cabin La Perla riverboat (42 m). This adventure through the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve includes an amazing array of flora and fauna, encounters with Peru’s indigenous peoples, and awesome outdoor activities.
Explore by day with experienced guides who will share the innermost secrets of the Amazon. Among the cruise highlights are excursions by speedboat and guided jungle walks, encounters with local culture via cooking demonstrations, piranha fishing, and village visits, and cuisine featuring regional and contemporary Peruvian specialties.
Travelling in the high-water season (November to May) is ideal for those who prefer exploring the Amazon and its tributaries by boat rather than walking. The low-water season (June to October) will suit those who would enjoy discovering the Amazon’s flora and fauna by walking through the rainforest.
Your ship: La Perla
La Perla’s 14 air-conditioned cabins blend modern amenities with traditional Amazonian style and a level of comfort and convenience normally not found in such a remote place. Relax in the interior lounge and bar, the exterior lounge, the dining room or the hammock area. All cabins offer private ensuite bathrooms, a desk and large windows.
Standard Cabins (up to 17 sqm) are on the second and third decks, with a Double bed, one with access to a shared balcony.
Amazon View Cabins (14 sqm) are on the second deck, with two twin beds (convertible into a King bed).Superior Cabins (20 sqm) are on the first and third decks feature two twin beds (convertible into a King bed), Some Superior Cabins can accommodate an extra bed, ideal for families.
Superior Cabins (20 sqm) are on the first and third decks feature two twin beds (convertible into a King bed), Some Superior Cabins can accommodate an extra bed, ideal for families.
Cruise the Peruvian Amazon from Iquitos aboard the luxury 19-suite Zafiro (50 m) into the heart of the Peruvian Amazon and its impressive flora and fauna.
You will share experiences with native communities, learn about Amazonian cultures and taste the most exotic flavours. Walks in the jungle, fishing, bird watching, the possibility of watching pink and grey dolphins up close, visiting local communities and night excursions are some of the activities to enjoy.
About your ship: Zafiro
Zafiro is a luxury small ship designed to let you be at one with the mighty Amazon and its rainforest. Panoramic windows adorn common areas, and open-air decks wrap around the ship. Gourmet dining features international, Peruvian and Amazonian fusion cuisine. A lavish Spa, dining room, boutique, exercise room, massage room, comfy outdoor lounge and open-air bar with jacuzzi complete the picture.
All of Zafiro’s 19 suites flaunt panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows, private bathrooms, air-conditioning, a desk, wardrobe, chest of drawers and mini-bar. The bed configuration in all suites is two twin beds, convertible to a King bed.
First Deck Suites (21 sqm) with panoramic views. 4 of these interconnect, ideal for families.
Second Deck Suites (21 sqm) with bathrobes, elevated panoramic views and a private balcony.
Master Suites (23 sqm) with a private sitting area, bathrobes and stunning 90-degree panoramic windows.
The Zafiro Suite (45 sqm) with an amazing 180-degree front facing window; balcony, Jacuzzi-style bathtub, and sofa.
Ecuador's Amazon - La Selva Eco-lodge & Retreat By World Journeys
Ecuador's Amazon - La Selva Eco-lodge & Retreat By World Journeys
La Selva Eco-Lodge is a sanctuary nestled amidst a symphony of exotic life. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be immersed in an unforgettable adventure, canoeing through pristine lagoons in search of caimans, climbing a towering observation deck for a bird’s-eye view of the forest canopy, and witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of hundreds of parrots gathering at a clay lick. More than just a trip, this is a chance to connect with the land and its people, as you walk with naturalist guides, learn from local indigenous communities, and feel the rhythm of the jungle. La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat is proudly certified as Carbon Neutral.
Nayara Alto Atacama is the only lodge in the San Pedro region totally enveloped by natural surroundings. Located in the lush Catarpe Valley of the Salt Mountain Range, the design was influenced by local village architecture, blending seamlessly into its environment and appearing as a part of the terracotta-colored ridge that rises behind it. The setting, the sweeping views, the tranquility and silence, and the hotel’s wonderful outdoor lounge spaces make the Nayara Alto Atacama a destination unto itself. Environmental sustainability and a strong connection with the local culture have put the Nayara Alto Atacama in a category of its own, as has its “Andescape” concept of decorative flora and stable of friendly llamas and alpacas, local cuisine, and Leave No Trace-schooled guides. Veronica Poblete, creator of Andescape, is a Paris-trained landscape designer and botanist, and ex-Harvard lecturer who has developed this new concept using local flora and ancient agricultural techniques.
The Nayara Alto Atacama seeks to open a traveller’s eyes, to explore, to feel, to connect, and to return revitalized and changed by a truly authentic experience one will never forget. Rather than simply taking photos as a passive traveller, Nayara Alto Atacama encourages guests to get off the beaten track, interact with the local indigenous culture and explore the desert’s varied and eerily beautiful landscapes by foot or bike. Geysers, hot springs, volcano climbs, mountain biking through desert canyons, and exploring ancient Incan ruins and petroglyphs are just a few of the adventurous excursions offered, always led by highly trained local guides.
**Room Types:**
**Quitor**- these rooms are closest to the common areas. The view from the private terraces of these guestrooms looks out on to the garden area of the hotel, framed against the Cordillera de la Sal in the background.
**Catarpe**- these rooms are located in the gardens of Alto Atacama. Slightly larger than the Quitors, with a more private terrace, offering an uninterrupted view to the Cordillera de la Sal Range and the Catarpe Valley.
**Tilo Suite**- these suites are located in the gardens of Alto Atacama, with an open view to the quiet Lagoon and the Catarpe Valley. Slightly bigger than the other rooms with a private terrace on offer as well as an outdoor shower. Two suites can be connected, ideal for families.
