Bunnik Tours South America - Hawthorn Travel & Cruise

®

2016/17 www.bunniktours.com.au

MAXIMUZME GR O U P S I

SMALL GROUP TOURING

SOUTH & CENTRAL

AMERICA

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Small Group Touring South & Central America

CONTENTS South & Central America Destinations The World of Bunnik Tours | The Bunnik Tours Difference Small Group Touring Special Local Experiences | Level of Fitness How We Travel Where We Stay Our Tour Guides Airfares Included | Celebrating 20 Years Booking Your Tour

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SMALL GROUP TOURING South American Discovery South American Explorer South America in Style NEW DELUXE Highlights of South America & the Galapagos Colombia, Ecuador & the Galapagos NEW Cuba, Peru & the Galapagos Mexico, Guatemala & Costa Rica NEW Mexico & Cuba Viva Mexico Cuban Discovery

36 Day Tour 28 Day Tour 29 Day Tour 26 Day Tour 25 Day Tour 28 Day Tour 34 Day Tour 28 Day Tour 17 Day Tour 15 Day Tour

CRUISE & TOUR South American Wonders Best of South America & the Galapagos Peru & Colombia with Glacier Cruise NEW Peru, Argentina & Patagonia Cruise NEW Mexico, Guatemala & the Panama Canal NEW Mexico, Cuba & the Panama Canal

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36 Day Tour 37 Day Tour 37 Day Tour 24 Day Tour 30 Day Tour 31 Day Tour

TOUR EXTENSIONS

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Galapagos Islands Best of Ecuador by Rail | Nazca Lines & Ballestas Islands Easter Island | Copper Canyon by Rail Bolivian Salt Flats | Atacama Desert Icons of Peru (Independent Touring) Amazon Cruise Antarctica - Classic Cruise | Stella Australis Cruise Bariloche Lake Crossing | Skorpios II Cruise Trails of El Chaltén | Patagonia Adventure

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Small Print Special Notes on Cruising | Map Legend and Abbreviations

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Front cover photo: Cuban locals, Cuba David Hammett

Small Group Touring South & Central America

SOUTH & CENTRAL

AMERICA

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL *Book, pay your deposit and applicable airfare payment by 22 January 2016 and you'll save up to $250 per person. For full terms & conditions, see pg 63.

SAVE

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250

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PER PERSON

Iguazu Falls, Argentina Matt Baldock

i BROCHURE PHOTOGRAPHY We take great pride in the tours we create, so wherever possible we feature images taken by Bunnik Tours team members and clients - we believe they provide a truer representation of the places we visit than glossy professional images.

Like to see your photo featured? Submit your photo via our website www.bunniktours.com.au/photocontest and you could also go into the draw to win a $1,000 travel voucher. (Of course, terms and conditions apply. Refer to our website for details.)

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South & Central America Destinations

TIKAL

HAVANA

Travel to the ruins of the great Mayan city of Tikal in Guatemela.

Soak up the rich culture of Old Havana.

(Mexico, Guatemala & the Panama Canal)

(Cuban Discovery)

TORTUGERO

Los Angeles San Diego

Experience Costa Rica's abundant wildlife.

GALAPAGOS

(Mexico, Guatemala & Costa Rica)

Chichén Cienfuegos Itzá Cancun Trinidad Playa del Mexico City Carmen Oaxaca San Antigua Guatemala Cristóbal Puerto Quetzal Cartagena Puntarenas

Puerto Vallarta

Visit the world's most diverse archipelagos. (Highlights of South America & the Galapagos)

Miami Cabo San Lucas

AMAZON CRUISE Cruise along the mighty Amazon in 5-star comfort.

MACHU PICCHU

Medellin Bogotá

(South America in Style)

Otavalo Quito Papallacta Guayaquil Banos

Explore the Lost City of the Incas. (South American Discovery)

SACRED VALLEY

BUENOS AIRES

See a colourful weaving demonstration by local Indian women.

Lima Colca Arequipa

Cusco Puno La Paz

(South American Discovery)

Enjoy a lively tango dinner and show experience. (Peru, Argentina & Patagonia)

Valparaíso

SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA DESTINATIONS From the Andes mountains and the Amazon jungle, to the beaches of Playa del Carmen and Copacabana and the incredible ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá, Tikal and Machu Picchu - we’d love to show you the amazing sights of South & Central America. As well as visiting all the major attractions, we take time to meet the locals and share some experiences you won’t typically find in the guidebooks. For more special local experiences see pg 8.

Santiago

Puerto Montt Puerto Chacabuco

Puerto Natales Punta Arenas Ushuaia

PATAGONIA Cruise by the breathtaking wilderness of the Patagonian coastline. (Peru, Argentina & Patagonia)

The World of Bunnik Tours | The Bunnik Tours Difference

PANAMA CANAL Pass through the manmade marvel of the Panama Canal. (Mexico, Cuba & the Panama Canal)

COFFEE TRIANGLE An in-depth look and tasting of Colombia's world-famous coffee. (Colombia, Ecuador & the Galapagos)

THE WORLD OF BUNNIK TOURS Welcome to the world of Bunnik Tours! We’re a family company that’s passionate about travel, and we’d love to show you South & Central America. We've created a series of tours that showcase the very best that this exciting and diverse region has to offer. Join us as we visit the magnificent ancient ruins of the Incan and Mayan civilisations, the rainforests of the Amazon and the icy landscapes of Patagonia. Be amazed by the wildlife of Costa Rica and the Galapagos Islands; sun yourself on the beautiful beaches of Brazil; be amongst the last to experience the unique culture of Cuba before mass tourism changes it forever! We'll enjoy mouthwatering food, lively music and the warm hospitality of the locals as we tour the incredible sights of South & Central America.

RIO DE JANEIRO Experience the atmosphere of the Sunday Hippy Market. (South American Explorer)

We've designed our itineraries to provide the perfect balance of organised sightseeing and free time to give you the opportunity to explore independently. And with a maximum group size of just 20 people, we have the flexibility to adapt our program to take advantage of local conditions and provide special experiences that the big groups just can't access. For us it’s about sharing the joy of travel and discovery, and we’d love to welcome you along for the journey. Happy travels! Marion, Dennis & Sacha Bunnik

THE ®

Estancia Stay

DIFFERENCE

Montevideo

Maximum Group Size 20 Less time waiting for others, more time with your guide and room to spread out on the bus. Smaller groups really do give you a better holiday experience!

No Hidden Extras IGUAZU FALLS Port Stanley

Enjoy birdspotting in the rainforests of Parque das Aves. (South American Explorer)

Our tours include return international flights and internal flights, taxes and surcharges, airport transfers, an extensive sightseeing program, many meals and even pre-paid tips under our Tipping Made Easy program. We offer very few ‘optional extras’, but where we do, you’ll know about them in advance.

For the Young at Heart Our tours are designed for people who are inspired to discover new places and share new experiences.

Unique Itineraries Our itineraries combine the must-see sights with the perfect mix of unique local experiences and leisure time.

CAPE HORN 'Round the Horn' from the comfort of your cruise ship. (South American Wonders)

Expert Guides We believe our guides are some of the best in the world! They’ll help you get the most from your holiday destination and really capture the essence of the places we visit.

By Australians for Australians Bunnik Tours is a family-owned business that’s been around for 20 years. Our tours are designed specifically to meet the needs and interests of Australian travellers.

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Small Group Touring

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

SMALL GROUP TOURING Small group touring is a great way to see the world! With all the research, planning and logistics taken care of, you can be sure of a stress-free holiday that takes in all the must-see sights, plus a few local experiences not typically found in the guidebooks. You’ll gain real insight into every destination you visit with the support of our expert local guides, and get to jump the queues at most of the major sights thanks to our special access arrangements. Whether you’re a solo traveller or a couple, you’ll have the comfort and safety of travelling in a group of like-minded people. And our small groups are the perfect environment for making new friends and sharing your travel experiences. A Bunnik small group tour also offers fantastic value for money. By negotiating in bulk with airlines, hotels and local operators we’ve secured preferred rates which we pass on to you.

Small Group Touring

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Just some of the reasons why Smaller is Better LESS TIME WAITING Getting on and off the coach, hotel check-ins, comfort stops, meals - with a smaller group everything is easier and quicker, giving you more time to enjoy your holiday.

GETTING OFF THE TOURIST TRAIL The logistical challenges of large groups mean that they are restricted to places and experiences that can cater for large numbers. Small groups can get off the beaten track and really experience a destination.

BETTER VIEWS

MORE TIME WITH YOUR GUIDE

MORE SPACE ON THE COACH

Our low guest-to-guide ratio means you’ll have more one-on-one time to ask questions and take advantage of your guide’s expert local knowledge.

Our groups are small but our vehicles are not! We use full size coaches wherever possible, so you’ll have plenty of room to spread out with ample spare seats.

MORE HOTEL CHOICE MORE FUN! Being in a small group means you get to know your fellow travellers. Many of our guests establish lasting friendships on our tours!

Big groups stay in the big hotel chains. We have the flexibility to choose from a wider range of accommodation based on factors such as character, service and location.

Being in a small group means you'll get a better view of the places we visit. You won’t have to jostle with dozens of fellow travellers to get the best views and photo opportunities.

BEING A RESPONSIBLE TOURIST Bunnik Tours firmly believes that tourism can create understanding between cultures and generate economic and social benefits in the places we visit. Our small tour groups are lowimpact and don’t ruin the very places we go to see.

OUR TOURING CONCEPT A born traveller, Bunnik Tours founder Marion Bunnik has always had a keen interest in the world. With more than 45 years' experience in the industry, her extensive research and personal experience led her to pioneer the concept of small group touring for the 'not too young, and not too old'. Bunnik Tours groups are made up of like-minded people who are past partying all night, but don't want to go to bed at sunset either: travellers who are young at heart and keen to get off the beaten tourist track and really experience all a destination has to offer! On a Bunnik Tour you'll visit all the famous landmarks and enjoy experiences that only small groups can access. You'll also get time to explore and discover on your own. Be warned: our tours are very addictive!

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Special Local Experiences | Level of Fitness

SPECIAL LOCAL EXPERIENCES A Bunnik Tour is not just about clocking up countries or ticking off major sights. Of course we’ll show you the famous attractions, but by staying an extra day here and there, and moving beyond the regular tourist traps, you’ll discover the real essence of the places we visit. Here are just some of the special experiences you can expect on a Bunnik Tour: Get up close with the local wildlife at Parque das Aves Bird Park in Iguazu Falls (included on all tours to Brazil) Learn about the cigar-making process, plus watch them being rolled - and try making one! (Mexico, Cuba & the Panama Canal)

Enjoy a drink of chicha and taste some guinea pig at a local Chicheria (included on all tours to Peru) Take part in a wax palm planting ceremony in Colombia’s Cocora Valley! (Peru & Colombia with Glacier Cruise; Colombia, Ecuador & the Galapagos)

See a weaving demonstration in the Sacred Valley (included on all tours to Peru)

Enjoy a fun cooking class in Bogotá! (Peru & Colombia with Glacier Cruise; Colombia, Ecuador & the Galapagos) Learn to tango in Buenos Aires before watching the professionals perform in a dinner-and-show experience (included on all tours to Argentina)

Enjoy lunch among the giant tortoises in the Galapagos (included on all tours to the Galapagos)

Visit the colourful and vibrant market of Chichicastenango (Mexico, Guatemala & Costa Rica)

Explore the amazing Mayan temples of Tikal (Mexico, Guatemala & Costa Rica; Mexico, Guatemala & the Panama Canal)

Travel from Arenal to Monteverde on the road-boat-road transfer, stopping for tilapia fishing (Mexico, Guatemala & Costa Rica)

Experience the atmosphere of the Sunday Hippy Market in Rio (South American Discovery, Highlights of South America & the Galapagos)

LEVEL OF FITNESS To get the most from your Bunnik Tour you will need a good level of fitness and mobility and an open mind. Many of the best sights can only be accessed on foot. You should be able to walk at least 3.5km on uneven ground, climb several flights of stairs and be prepared to board small boats. You should also be able to carry your own bags as porter services may not always be available. Passengers who are 70 and over will be required to obtain a doctor’s clearance before travelling.

Small Group Touring Tour Name

“Cuba is wondrously beguiling, full of anachronism and paradoxes, seething with sensuality, poverty, and populated by highly spirited peoples who all have an extra gene in their makeup - their bodies move and dance without any effort! Vive la LA CASA DE LE TROVA!” - Betty Liew (Mexico & Cuba - March 2015)

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How We Travel

HOW WE TRAVEL Like all tour companies we have clean, comfortable, air-conditioned coaches. Our small group policy means there are always plenty of empty seats. Where we differ is that we offer much more than just coaches. We like to mix it up because we believe it makes for a better holiday. After all, anybody can give you a coach tour. For us it’s all about the experience!

GET OUT AND WALK

SAIL, PADDLE, FLOAT

CLASSIC CARS IN CUBA

Many times the best views are not from the coach, jeep, boat or train. To really experience the flavours and colours of South & Central America you need to get in amongst it and wander on foot. So bring your walking shoes and get ready to discover the hidden secrets and treasures of this amazing continent.

We explore the wildlife-rich inlets of Tortuergo and tributaries of the Amazon by boat. We cruise the Panama Canal, visit the incredible floating reed islands on Lake Titicaca, and take a speedboat between the islands of the Galapagos. There's plenty of time on the water in South & Central America so have your sea legs ready.

Cuba is famous for its cigars, music and amazing array of 1950s American cars. These beasts from years gone by still cruise the streets of Havana and are our transport as we tour the city before an evening of music and fine food in Cato Tuerto. It's 'Greased Lightning' with a Cuban beat!

Where We Stay

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WHERE WE STAY Our small group sizes mean we can stay where the big groups can’t. Location, character and cleanliness beat bland chain hotels, bed factories and overpriced mini-bars every time.

INKATERRA HOTEL When we visit Machu Picchu we stay at the 4.5-star Inkaterra Hotel. Located close to Machu Picchu, it's a boutiquestyle luxury eco-lodge. Beautifully designed, the cottages form an Andeanstyle village which blends in seamlessly with its exquisite surroundings.

BELMOND HOTEL DAS CATARATAS

TERMAS PAPALLACTA

For the ultimate Iguazu Falls experience you have to stay inside the national park. We stay at the stunning 5-star Hotel das Cataratas by Orient Express - just metres from the falls where you can hear their thunder and see the mist rising over the trees. In the morning it's a short walk and you're at the Falls - before the park is open to visitors!

Situated between two spectacular volcanoes, the Termas Papallacta in Ecuador is built around naturally occurring thermal springs. Guests can soak in the thermal baths, enjoying the curative properties of the waters (which are said to assist all manner of ills) while taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.

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Our Tour Guides

OUR TOUR GUIDES Nothing beats local knowledge! All of our guides are carefully selected for their expertise, passion and genuine love of their country. You’ll find their energy and enthusiasm contagious and once you’ve experienced a Bunnik Tour, we’re sure you’ll agree that we have some of the best tour guides in the world!

“Gina was an exceptional lady. She went out of her way to help. Nothing was too much trouble. She organised all the paperwork for flights, bought shoelaces for walking boots, called taxis for us. We have travelled a lot overseas and Gina worked above and beyond any tour leader we have had." - Glenda Arbuthnot (South American Discovery - March 2015)

Our Tour Guides

GINA

MAYRA

RAYSELIS

CARLOS

JESUS

guiding experience: 12 years





regions: Ecuador, Bolivia, Peru, Chile, Brazil & Argentina

regions: Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Brazil & Argentina

region: Cuba

regions: Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Brazil & Argentina

regions: Peru, Chile, Brazil & Argentina

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Airfares Included | Celebrating 20 Years

AIRFARES INCLUDED Bunnik Tours include return international airfares from Australia as part of the tour package. It allows us to offer you a complete stress-free holiday package yet still give you the flexibility to extend your stay or upgrade to business or first class.

Upgrade to Business Class: If you are looking for that extra bit of comfort, then we are also able to upgrade your flights to business or first class. We have access to some of the best rates in the industry so if you are travelling for an extra-special birthday or celebration, then this is definitely an option worth considering. Just ask your friendly travel consultant for more details.

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS Marion Bunnik Travel opened its doors

We change our name to Bunnik Travel

By now our team had doubled in size and we started winning a number of state-based travel awards

Driven by a passion for travel and a commitment to customer service, Marion’s dream was to open her own travel agency, and in 1995 she did just that, opening the doors of Marion Bunnik Travel on Pirie Street in Adelaide.

Bunnik Travel received the prestigious award for Australia's Best Travel Agency at the National Travel Industry Awards.

Bunnik Tours launched

We received the same award again in 2001 & 2003 making us the first travel agency to become a 3-time winner.

The 1st Bunnik Tour left for Thailand, soon followed by Egypt

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Booking Your Tour

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BOOKING YOUR TOUR Planning your holiday is half the fun and it pays to be prepared. You’ll find lots of info on our website including videos, client reviews, heaps of photos and more detailed itineraries. How to Book To confirm your booking, we will need a non-refundable deposit of $1,000 per person.

Call 1800 BUNNIK Visit bunniktours.com.au See your local travel agent

You will also need to arrange travel insurance. Unfortunately this is not a choice, it’s compulsory as we’d hate for something to happen and you not be covered. Payment Schedules About 4-8 weeks after your booking has been confirmed, we’ll request a progress payment in order to cover airfares, taxes and fuel surcharges. The progress payment is $3,000 per person for South & Central America. This amount increases if you are flying premium, business or first class. This payment allows us to issue your flight tickets and ensures you don’t get hit with airline increases on fuel surcharges and taxes. Your final balance is due 90 days before you depart. You’ll find our cancellation policy and other terms and conditions in the back of this brochure. Passports and Visas Australian travellers require visas for

a number of countries. We can help you obtain them. It's important to note that they can take time to arrange, so early booking is recommended. We will also require a photocopy of your passport which must be valid for travel for at least six months from the date you are planning to return to Australia.

BOOK YOUR BUNNIK TOUR

consultant. It’s also a good idea to register for our email newsletter or to visit our website regularly, as from time to time we release some fantastic special offers. And nobody likes to miss out on a good deal! Tipping Made Easy Tipping is not a part of everyday Australian life, so many of us feel unsure about when or how much to tip. However, tipping is expected in many of the countries we visit and often makes up a large part of people’s wages, so it’s important to get it right.

Please note the requirements for travellers with dual passports may differ, please contact your consultant for details. Your Travel Documents Your documents, including itineraries and hotel lists, are prepared approximately three weeks before you depart. If you require your documentation earlier than this, please be sure to let us know. Money-Saving Discounts Discounts are available to past customers and to those who book two or more tours at once. For details please check with your

For this reason we have developed a ‘Tipping Made Easy’ program for selected destinations. This simple system sees us collect tips at the time of booking. We then pass these tips to our local staff and they take care of all the tipping. Easy! Please note, on tours where ‘Tipping Made Easy’ operates, it is compulsory for logistical reasons that all tour members participate.

Fast forward 20 years, and the business has evolved into a multi-award winning, international tour operator, employing more than 50 staff, and sending thousands of happy customers around the world on the holidays of their dreams each year. As the business has grown, Marion and sons Dennis and Sacha have remained at the core of the operation and stayed true to the original philosophy of providing outstanding customer service and treasured holiday experiences.

Bunnik Tours 1st official brochure released

Bunnik Tours had a facelift with a new logo

What a year! The GFC hit, we opened an office in Melbourne, and won the BRW Fast 100 Award

Bunnik Tours split 1 brochure into 10. New programs (Solo Travellers and Cruise & Tour) were launched

We finally outgrew our accommodation, and moved to our own building in Flinders Street

20 YEARS, and counting! We received the BRW Award for Excellence in Customer Service

Our 1st tour to South America

Marion Bunnik became a finalist in the Telstra Business Women's Awards

We begin advertising nationally

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Small Group Touring South American Discovery

Rio de Janeiro Annelieke Huijgens

SOUTH AMERICAN DISCOVERY This is the ultimate tour of South America! Explore volcanic Ecuador, be amazed by Machu Picchu, visit the wild Amazon Jungle, feel the thunder of Iguazu Falls, experience the excitement of Rio and dance the tango in Buenos Aires!

Highlights • See the World Heritagelisted old town of Cuenca • Visit the spectacular Incan city of Machu Picchu • Explore the Amazon Rainforest • Take the Libertad Train through the spectacular Andes Mountains • Cross Lake Titicaca by hydrofoil and see the floating Uros Islands • Visit the thunderous Iguazu Falls • Enjoy a tango lesson in Buenos Aires

Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Guayaquil Travelling via Santiago we arrive in Guayaquil. Day 2. Guayaquil - Cuenca Today we travel through the highlands of El Cajas National Park to Cuenca. On arrival, we enjoy a leisurely stroll through the old town, before our group welcome dinner. [B,D] Day 3. Cuenca Ecuador is the heart of Panama hat manufacturing and today we visit a hat factory, before exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed former Incan town of Cuenca. Our sightseeing includes La Catedral Nueva, Plaza Calderon and Plaza de Carmen. [B] Day 4. Cuenca - Guamote We make our way to Guamote, stopping in Alausi to board the famous train to the Devil’s Nose, one of Ecuador’s best rail journeys. [B,D] Day 5. Guamote - Banos This morning we tour the Inti Sisa educational centre before heading to the Guamote Market, one of the most colourful and authentic markets in Ecuador. [B,L] Special Experience: Visit the Palacio Real Community for lunch and enjoy some llama tasting if you’re game! Day 6. Banos We travel into the Amazon Rainforest and take a short hike to the Devil’s Cauldron waterfall, located on the impressive Pastaza River Gorge. [B,L] Day 7. Banos - Otavalo Departing Banos, we head to Otavalo, famous for textiles and its Handicraft Market. It’s the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs! [B,D]

days:

from

36 18,995pp $

Flights Included

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20

Day 8. Otavalo Special Experience: We board the Libertad Train to enjoy one of the most scenic train rides in Ecuador, travelling from the Andean Mountains of Ibarra through the cloud forest and subtropical landscape of Salinas. [B] Day 9. Otavalo - Papallacta We journey through the Andes to a beautiful rose plantation continuing to Papallacta, famous for its hot springs where we can enjoy a soak! [B] Day 10. Papallacta - Quito We travel to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. [B] Day 11. Quito - Lima We explore Quito’s colonial ‘Old Town’. Our sightseeing includes Independence Square and the beautiful Church of the Society of Jesus. We stop at the ‘Middle of the World’ where we can stand with one foot on each equator. Later, we fly to Lima. [B] Day 12. Lima - Amazon Jungle After flying to Iquitos we take a short boat ride along the mighty Amazon River to our jungle lodge, where we meet our Amazon guides. [B,L,D] Day 13. Amazon Jungle Today we begin with a canopy walk in Sucusari Reserve, before visiting a local shaman to learn about the medicinal uses of the local plants. [B,L,D] Day 14. Amazon Jungle After breakfast, we cruise to a local village (spot the pink dolphins), before visiting Neiser’s Reserve, home to numerous species of monkey. [B,L,D] Day 15. Amazon Jungle - Cusco Today we fly to Cusco via Lima. [B] Day 16. Cusco We visit the fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the Incan baths at Tambomachay. Later we’ll see the

Small Group Touring South American Discovery Cathedral of Santa Domingo and Koricancha (Temple of the Sun). [B]

Otavalo 2 1 1 Papallacta Guayaquil 31 1 2 Banos 2 Guamote 3 Amazon Jungle

Quito

Day 17. Cusco - Sacred Valley Another opportunity to pick up souvenirs as we visit impressive ruins and the lively market at Pisac. [B]

Cuenca

Iquitos

PERU

Day 18. Sacred Valley This morning we climb a steep stone staircase to the archaeological ruins of Ollantaytambo, an impressive Incan fortress. Later we explore the salt ponds at Maras and the elliptical terraces of Moray. [B] Special Experience: Enjoy a drink of chicha and taste some guinea pig at a local Chicheria.

Machu Picchu

Lima 3

1

(1,2)

2

Sacred Valley 4 Cusco (2,2)

BRAZIL 2

Puno Lake Titicaca

BOLIVIA

Rio de Janeiro

Day 19. Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu Get your camera ready as we travel by train through the scenic Sacred Valley to the famed Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. The sheer scale of this place will take your breath away. [B,D]

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Day 22. Cusco - Lake Titicaca We travel through the majestic High Andes Mountains to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. On arrival, we visit the floating Uros Islands, made entirely out of reeds. [B] Day 23. Lake Titicaca We cruise across Lake Titicaca by hydrofoil, visiting the Sun & Moon Islands and enjoying magical alpine views of the Andes. [B,L] Day 24. Lake Titicaca - Lima Today we fly to Lima, Peru’s largest city. [B] Day 25. Lima We explore Lima’s sights including the Plaza Mayor, San Francisco Convent and the Larco Museum. [B] Day 26. Lima - Iguazu Falls Our tour takes us to Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls. [B] Day 27. Iguazu Falls We explore the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls, and stand on a platform suspended over the incredible Devil’s Throat! [B] Special Experience: Get up close with the local wildlife at the Parque Das Aves bird park. Day 28. Iguazu Falls - Rio de Janeiro We explore the Brazilian side of the Falls, then fly to vibrant Rio de Janeiro. [B] Day 29. Rio de Janeiro Plenty of leisure time today before tonight’s delicious barbecue dinner. [B,D] Special Experience: We explore the colourful Ipanema Hippy Market. Day 30. Rio de Janeiro More great photo opportunities await as we explore the famous sights of Rio, including Corcovado Hill, the Statue of Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain. [B] Day 31. Rio de Janeiro - Buenos Aires We fly to the charming city of Buenos Aires, the fashion capital of South America. [B] Day 32. Buenos Aires Our sightseeing in Buenos Aires includes the Plaza de Mayo, Recoleta Cemetery and Caminito Street. We visit the Colon Theatre, considered to be amongst the five best

Iguazu Falls

ARGENTINA

Day 20. Machu Picchu - Cusco There is time this morning to return to Machu Picchu for a second, optional, visit. Later we visit Chinchero for a weaving demonstration before travelling to Cusco. [B] Day 21. Cusco Take time to explore the amazing city of Cusco. [B]

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Buenos Aires 3

Dates & Prices Start

Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share

Finish Total cost pp, twin share

Early Bird Deals Save $250 per person when you book & pay your deposit and applicable airfare payment by Friday 22 January 2016. For full terms & conditions see page 63.

2016 03-Apr 08-May $18,995

07-Aug 11-Sep $18,995

17-Apr 22-May $18,995

11-Sep

16-Oct $18,995 23-Oct $18,995

01-May 05-Jun $18,995

18-Sep

22-May 26-Jun $18,995

09-Oct 13-Nov $18,995

05-Jun* 10-Jul $19,595

23-Oct 27-Nov $18,995

$18,995

06-Nov 11-Dec $18,995

26-Jun 31-Jul

Inclusions travel: • Return economy-class flights from Australia to South America. Taxes included. • 8 internal flights within South America

2017 15-Jan 19-Feb $19,595

12-Mar 16-Apr $19,595

05-Feb 12-Mar $19,595

02-Apr 07-May $19,795

• Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour

26-Feb 02-Apr $19,595

23-Apr 28-May $19,795

• All touring in air-conditioned vehicles

price valid from: Sydney other departure cities: Clients from Melbourne & Brisbane add $100pp, from Adelaide add $300, and from Perth add $500. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details.

transportation: Plane, coach, train, boat & hydrofoil

accommodation & meals: • 27 nights in good quality hotels (3½4½ star)

single supplement: From $4,500

• 3 nights in an Amazon Jungle lodge

day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary, depending on your city of departure.

• 1 night stay in a nature retreat in Aguas Calientes

*Please note: 5 June 2016 departure will enjoy Inti Raymi Festival in Cusco. The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,770. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. For full terms and conditions please see pages 62 to 63.

concert venues in the world. [B] Day 33. Buenos Aires Enjoy a day at leisure, then don your dancing shoes for a fun tango lesson followed by dinner and a show! [B,D]

• 2 night stay inside Iguazu Falls NP • 33 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 9 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinner

tour guides: • English-speaking locally based tour director and guides

tips: • Tipping Made Easy, $386pp AUD prepaid

Day 34. Depart Buenos Aires Today we begin our journey home. [B] Day 35. In Transit Day 36. Arrive in Australia

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Small Group Touring South American Explorer

On the road to Colca Canyon, Peru Marion Bunnik

SOUTH AMERICAN EXPLORER Explore the wonders of South America! Enjoy an in-depth look at Peru, explore the ‘white city’ of Arequipa, the Colca Valley, iconic Machu Picchu, and the wilds of the Amazon Jungle. Then it’s on to spectacular Iguazu Falls, lively Rio and grand Buenos Aires.

Highlights • Explore the Amazon Jungle • Visit the markets and ruins of the Sacred Valley • See the spectacular Incan city of Machu Picchu • Cruise Lake Titicaca to the floating Uros Islands • Explore the Colca Valley - home to the world’s deepest canyon • Experience the power of Iguazu Falls • Tour vibrant Rio and colourful Buenos Aires

Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Lima Welcome to Lima! On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Lima Our sightseeing in Lima includes the Plaza Mayor, Lima Cathedral, Convento de San Francisco and the famous Larco Museum. We meet again tonight for a group welcome dinner. [B,D] Day 3. Lima - Amazon Jungle Adventure awaits as we fly to the Amazon Jungle! A short cruise along the river takes us to our jungle lodge. [B,L,D] Special Experience: The Amazon Jungle is an incredibly diverse ecosystem. We cruise along rivers, paddle across lakes in canoes, walk through dense rainforest and see native wildlife including monkeys, otters, parrots and caiman.

days:

28

from

16,195pp

$

Flights Included

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20

Day 7. Cusco We explore Cusco, beginning with a visit to the fascinating fortress of Sacsayhuaman, and the local San Pedro Market. This afternoon we explore Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), considered the most spectacular of all the Incan temples. [B] Day 8. Cusco - Sacred Valley We visit the impressive ruins and the lively market at Pisac, a great place to pick up a few souvenirs. [B] Day 9. Sacred Valley This morning we climb a steep stone staircase to the ruins of Ollantaytambo, an impressive Incan fortress. Later we explore the salt ponds at Maras and the elliptical terraces of Moray. [B] Special Experience: Enjoy a drink of chicha and taste some guinea pig at a local Chicheria. Day 10. Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu A magical day as we travel by train through the Sacred Valley to the famous Lost City of the Incas Machu Picchu where we enjoy a guided tour. [B,D]

Day 4. Amazon Jungle This morning we visit Tambopata Candamo National Reserve and Lake Sandoval, a beautiful palm-fringed expanse of water that is home to the endangered giant river otter. [B,L,D]

Day 11. Machu Picchu - Cusco There is time this morning to return to Machu Picchu for a second, optional, visit. Later we visit Chinchero for a weaving demonstration before travelling to Cusco. [B]

Day 5. Amazon Jungle We cruise downriver to a small community and visit a local farm, where we sample some typical Amazonian food. The afternoon is at leisure for you to soak up the jungle atmosphere. [B,L,D]

Day 12. Cusco Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Cusco, once the capital of the Incan Empire. [B]

Day 6. Amazon Jungle - Cusco Leaving the Amazon behind, we fly to Cusco, the former Incan capital. After lunch, we enjoy a short walking tour that includes the Plaza de Armas and the 17th century Cathedral of Santo Domingo, a fine example of colonial Baroque architecture. [B,L]

Day 13. Cusco - Lake Titicaca We travel through the majestic High Andes Mountains to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. [B] Day 14. Lake Titicaca Cruise on the highest fresh water lake in the world, Lake Titicaca. Split across the two countries of Peru & Bolivia, we learn how each of the families

Small Group Touring South American Explorer

Machu Picchu Sacred Valley

PERU 1

Lima 2 Colca 1

19

3 Amazon Jungle Cusco (2,2) 2 Puno 2

2

4

Lake Titicaca

BRAZIL

Arequipa Rio de Janeiro 3 2

ARGENTINA

Iguazu Falls

The Cross of the Condor Marion Bunnik

Buenos Aires 3 live on their own island and survive the harsh climate conditions. [B,L] Day 15. Lake Titicaca - Colca Valley The Colca Valley is home to the world’s deepest canyon and some stunning volcanic scenery. [B,D] Day 16. Colca Valley - Arequipa On our way to Arequipa, we visit the Cross of the Condor and the mountain terraces of Antahuilque. [B,L] Special Experience: The Cross of the Condor is the deepest point of the Colca Canyon. It is where the majestic Andean condor can be seen cruising on the morning thermals. Watching this amazing bird in flight is an incredible wildlife experience. Day 17. Arequipa This morning we explore the ‘white city’ of Arequipa. Highlights include the Convent of Santa Catalina, Plaza de Armas, Church of La Compañía and Carmen Alto - a viewpoint which offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. [B] Day 18. Arequipa - Iguazu Falls We leave Peru and fly, via Lima, to the thunderous Iguazu Falls. [B] Day 19. Iguazu Falls Straddling the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls is one of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls! Standing on a platform suspended over the thunderous Devil’s Throat we sense the incredible power of the falls! [B] Day 20. Iguazu Falls - Rio de Janeiro Before flying to vibrant Rio de Janeiro, we visit a colourful bird park. Set deep in the rainforest, it is home to more than 160 species of tropical birds, including toucans and macaws. [B] Day 21. Rio de Janeiro Enjoy a day at leisure in this lively city, before a delicious barbeque dinner. [B,D] Day 22. Rio de Janeiro Make sure your cameras are charged today as we explore the famous sights of Rio. We’ll see Corcovado Hill, the Statue of Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain. [B] Day 23. Rio de Janeiro - Buenos Aires We fly to Buenos Aires, the ‘Paris of the South’ and the cultural capital of South America. [B] Day 24. Buenos Aires We explore the charming city of Buenos Aires. We’ll visit the Plaza de Mayo, Recoleta Cemetery and Caminito Street in the colourful La Boca District. [B]





2016 04-Apr 01-May $16,195

01-Jul

18-Apr 15-May $16,195

22-Aug 18-Sep $16,195

28-Jul $16,195

02-May 29-May $16,195

12-Sep

16-May 12-Jun $16,195

23-Sep 20-Oct $16,195

09-Oct $16,195

03-Jun 30-Jun $16,195

10-Oct 06-Nov $16,195

17-Jun* 14-Jul $16,795

21-Oct

27-Jun 24-Jul $16,195

07-Nov 04-Dec $16,195

17-Nov $16,195

Inclusions travel: • Return economy-class flights from Australia to South America. Taxes included. • 6 internal flights within South America • All airport transfers on the first and last day of tour

2017 13-Jan 09-Feb $16,695

17-Mar

13-Apr $16,695

17-Feb 16-Mar $16,695

03-Apr 30-Apr $16,695

10-Mar 06-Apr $16,695

21-Apr

18-May $16,695


transportation: Coach, plane, boat & train

price valid from: Sydney

accommodation & meals:

other departure cities: Clients from Melbourne & Brisbane add $100pp, from Adelaide add $300, and from Perth add $500. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details.

• 19 nights in good quality hotels (3½4½ star)


• 3 nights in a Amazon Jungle lodge • 1 night stay in a nature retreat in Aguas Calientes


• 2 night stay inside Iguazu Falls NP

*Please note: 17 June 2016 departure will enjoy Inti Raymi Festival in Cusco.

tour guides:

The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,400. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details.

• 25 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 8 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinner

• English-speaking locally based tour director and guides


For full terms and conditions please see pages 62 to 63.

Special Experience: Visit the Colon Theatre, considered to be amongst the five best concert venues in the world. Day 25. Buenos Aires Today is at leisure, before a lively tango dinner and show experience - a great way to end our time in South America! [B,D]

Day 26. Depart Buenos Aires We enjoy a morning at leisure, before beginning the journey home. [B] Day 27. In Transit Day 28. Arrive in Australia

20

Small Group Touring South America in Style

Hiram Bingham Train

SOUTH AMERICA IN STYLE On this five-star journey you’ll see the best of South America. Staying in luxury at some of the region’s best hotels, each day brings a new adventure. Experience magical Machu Picchu, explore the incredible Amazon Jungle and learn the tango in Buenos Aires. Fantástico!

Highlights • Journey through the spectacular Sacred Valley • Experience the magic of Machu Picchu • Visit the fascinating floating islands of Uros • Spend 4 days cruising the Amazon • Visit the thunderous Iguazu Falls • Tour vibrant Rio and colourful Buenos Aires • Spend the night in one of Argentina’s oldest estancias

days:

New Deluxe Tour

Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Santiago Welcome to Santiago, Chile’s colourful capital, this evening we enjoy a group welcome dinner. [D] Day 2. Santiago We explore Santiago, including La Moneda and the Plaza de Armas, then visit a lookout for amazing views of the city. [B] Special Experience: We travel to Chile’s famous wine-producing region, the Maipo Valley, where we enjoy a winery tour and tasting. Day 3. Valparaíso & Viña del Mar We travel towards the coast visiting the historical maritime port of Valparaíso and the ‘Garden City’ of Viña del Mar with its many parks. [B] Day 4. Santiago - Cusco Today we fly to Cusco via Lima. On arrival we explore Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), considered the most spectacular of all the Incan temples, followed by a tour of the 17th Century Cathedral. [B,L] Day 5. Cusco - Machu Picchu Deluxe Experience: A magical day as we travel on the luxury Hiram Bingham Train through the Sacred Valley to the famous Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. [B,D] Day 6. Machu Picchu - Sacred Valley This morning is at leisure with the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit. Later we board the Vistadome train and travel through the Sacred Valley. Later we visit a Chicheria to taste the local chicha drink and also have the chance to try some guinea pig. [B]

from

29 24,995pp $

Flights Included

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20

Day 7. Sacred Valley We climb a steep stone staircase to the archaeological ruins of Ollantaytambo an impressive fortress built by the Incas. [B,L] Special Experience: Enjoy lunch at a local ranch while watching a Paso Horse show and later visit the Seminario pottery workshop. Day 8. Sacred Valley - Cusco We travel to Cusco via the Pisac markets and ruins followed by a visit to the fascinating fortress of Sacsayhuaman. We also have time to enjoy a weaving demonstration. [B] Day 9. Cusco A free day to explore the fascinating city of Cusco. [B] Day 10. Cusco - Lake Titicaca Deluxe Experience: Boarding the Andean Explorer Train we travel through the majestic High Andes Mountains to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. [B,L] Day 11. Lake Titicaca Cruise on the highest fresh water lake in the world, Lake Titicaca. Split across the two countries of Peru & Bolivia, we learn how each family lives on their own island and survives the harsh climate. [B] Day 12. Lake Titicaca - Lima We visit the pre-Incan burial ground of Sillustani before boarding our flight to Lima. [B,D] Special Experience: This evening we’re treated to a tour of Casa Aliaga before our group dinner. Day 13. Lima Our sightseeing in Lima includes the Plaza Mayor, Lima Cathedral, Convento de San Francisco and a walking tour of the Barranco District. We also visit the Lima Art Museum. [B]

Small Group Touring South America in Style

21

Iquitos Amaz

Samiria National Reserve

on

Yarapa Yanallpa

3-night Zafiro Amazon Cruise

PERU Machu Picchu 1 Sacred Valley 2 3 Cusco (1,2)

Lima 3 (2,1)

MV Zafiro Amazon Cruise

2 Puno Lake Titicaca

Day 14. Lima - Cruising: Embark Iquitos A short flight takes us from Lima to Iquitos, then we drive through forested countryside and thick jungle to Nauta. [B,D] Deluxe Experience: Cruise the Amazon on board the luxury MV Zafiro

BRAZIL

Rio de Janeiro Iguazu Falls

Day 15. Amazon Cruising We cruise along an amazing blackwater stream and explore a “gallery forest” then take a guided jungle walk to learn about the medicinal plants. In the early evening we take a magical journey aboard skiffs on the lookout for parrots, macaws and sloths, unperturbed by our presence. [B,L,D]

2

ARGENTINA

Day 16. Amazon Cruising As we continue exploring the waterways by skiff we see freshwater dolphins, monkeys, and a variety of native birds. In the afternoon we’ll enjoy a cooking class in a local home where we will learn about (and taste) Amazon cuisine! [B,L,D]

Valparaíso

Estancia Stay

3

1 3

Santiago

Buenos Aires (2,1)

CHILE

Day 17. Disembark Cruise: Iquitos - Lima En route to Iquitos airport we’ll stop to visit the Manatee Rescue Center, where biologists and volunteers care for endangered Amazon manatees, then board our return flight to Lima. [B] Day 18. Lima - Iguazu Falls Leaving Peru we fly to the thunderous Iguazu Falls. [B] Day 19. Iguazu Falls We explore the Argentinean side of the falls, and stand on a platform suspended over the thunderous Devil’s Throat! [B] Special Experience: Get up close with the local wildlife at the Parque Das Aves bird park. Day 20. Iguazu Falls - Rio de Janeiro We explore the Brazilian side of the Falls, before flying to vibrant Rio de Janeiro. [B] Day 21. Rio de Janeiro Make sure your cameras are charged as we explore the famous sights of Rio, including Corcovado Hill, the Statue of Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain. [B] Day 22. Rio de Janeiro Enjoy a day at leisure, before tonight’s delicious barbecue dinner. [B,D] Day 23. Rio de Janeiro - Buenos Aires We fly to the charming city of Buenos Aires, the fashion capital of South America. [B] Day 24. Buenos Aires We spend the morning exploring the charming city of Buenos Aires. We’ll visit the Plaza de Mayo, Colon Theatre, Recoleta Cemetery and Caminito Street in the colourful La Boca District. [B] Day 25. Estancia Stay Deluxe Experience: We travel to one of the country’s oldest estancias where we spend the night and take part in traditions such as asados and tasting the local herb tea, mate. [B,L,D]


Finish

Total cost per person Lower deck

Upper deck

2016

Inclusions travel: • Return economy-class flights from Australia to South America. Taxes included.

21-Apr

19-May

$24,995

$25,295

07-Jul

04-Aug

$24,995

$25,295

08-Sep

06-Oct

$24,995

$25,295

10-Nov

08-Dec

$25,195

$25,495

05-Jan

02-Feb

$26,695

$26,995

09-Mar

06-Apr

$25,795

$26,195

Coach, plane, train, boat & Amazon cruise

16-Mar

13-Apr

$25,795

$26,195


2017

• 8 internal flights within South America • All airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles

transportation:

price valid from: Sydney other departure cities: Clients from Melbourne & Brisbane add $100pp, from Adelaide add $300, and from Perth add $500. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details. single supplement: From $9,150 day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary, depending on your city of departure. The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,520. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.

• 20 nights in deluxe hotels (4½-5 star) including: • • • • •

The Singular Santiago, Lastarria JW Marriott Hotels in Cusco & Lima Das Cataratas Hotel, Iguazu Falls Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio de Janeiro The Alvear Palace Hotel, Buenos Aires

• 3-night cruise on board the luxury MV Zafiro • 1 night stay at the Inkaterra nature retreat in Aguas Calientes • 1 night at La Bamba Argentinian Estancia • 1 night at 4-star airport hotel

All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details.

• 26 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 9 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners

Day 26. Buenos Aires We travel back to the grand city of Buenos Aires where tonight we learn to tango, before watching the professionals perform in a vibrant dinner-show experience. [B,D]


tour guides:

Day 27. Depart Buenos Aires We begin our journey home. [B]

Save $250 per person when you book & pay your deposit and applicable airfare payment by Friday 22 January 2016. For full terms & conditions see page 63.

Day 28. In Transit Day 29. Arrive in Australia

3

Early Bird Deals


tips: • Tipping Made Easy, $255pp AUD prepaid. On board the cruise tipping will be paid locally.

22

Small Group Touring Highlights of South America & the Galapagos

Machu Picchu, Peru Dennis Bunnik

HIGHLIGHTS OF SOUTH AMERICA & THE GALAPAGOS You’ll marvel at the unique wildlife of the Galapagos as you spend four nights of your tour on these remarkable islands. You’ll also see the sights of the Sacred Valley, the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu, experience the power of Iguazu Falls, and visit exciting Rio and cosmopolitan Buenos Aires.

Highlights • Enjoy the lively cities of Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro • Visit the thunderous Iguazu Falls • Spend 4 incredible nights in the Galapagos Islands • Explore the ruins and markets in the Sacred Valley • Visit the spectacular Inca city of Machu Picchu • Explore the vineyards of the Maipo Valley

Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Buenos Aires Welcome to Buenos Aires, the fashion capital of South America. On arrival, we will be met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Buenos Aires Our morning sightseeing in Buenos Aires, known as the ‘Paris of the South’, includes Plaza de Mayo, Recoleta Cemetery and Caminito Street in the colourful La Boca District. [B,D] Special Experience: This evening, don your dancing shoes as we enjoy a tango lesson, then sit back and watch the professionals perform during a lively dinner and show. Day 3. Buenos Aires Enjoy a day at leisure to explore this grand city. [B] Day 4. Buenos Aires - Rio de Janeiro We fly to the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, home to the world-famous Carnival. [B] Day 5. Rio de Janeiro Plenty of leisure time today to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Rio. Tonight we enjoy a delicious barbecue dinner. [B,D] Special Experience: We explore the colourful Ipanema Hippy Market. Day 6. Rio de Janeiro Plenty of photo opportunities today as we visit Rio’s most famous sights, including Corcovado Hill with the Statue of Christ the Redeemer, and Sugar Loaf Mountain, where we enjoy spectacular views over the city. [B] Day 7. Rio de Janeiro - Iguazu Falls Enjoy a morning at leisure before we take a short flight to Iguazu Falls. [B]

days:

26

from

17,695pp

$

Flights Included

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20

Day 8. Iguazu Falls Straddling the border of Brazil and Argentina, and surrounded by lush rainforest, Iguazu Falls is one of the three biggest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world! Standing on a platform suspended over the thunderous Devil’s Throat we get a real sense of their incredible power! [B] Day 9. Iguazu Falls - Lima On the Brazilian side of the Falls, we wander along the canyon path, enjoying magnificent panoramic views. We visit the Parque das Aves, a colourful bird park set deep in the rainforest that is home to more than 160 species of tropical birds. We board a flight to Lima this afternoon. [B] Day 10. Lima Our sightseeing in Lima includes the Plaza Mayor, Lima Cathedral, Convento de San Francisco and the famous Larco Museum. [B] Day 11. Lima - Guayaquil We fly to Guayaquil, Ecuador’s main sea port, where we enjoy a city tour. Highlights include the Cathedral of Saint Peter, Santa Ana Hill and Iguana Park. [B] Day 12. Guayaquil - Galapagos Islands This morning we travel to the Galapagos Islands, one of the world’s most amazing archipelagos! We arrive on the island of San Cristóbal, known for its many arts and crafts shops. [B] Day 13. Galapagos Islands Make sure your cameras are charged as we explore San Cristóbal and surrounds. We travel to the highlands and visit the lagoons and beaches, which are home to a number of sea lion colonies. [B,L] Day 14. Galapagos Islands Boarding a speedboat, we head to the island of Santa Cruz and to the charming harbour town of Puerto Ayora. [B,L]

Small Group Touring Highlights of South America & the Galapagos

4

23

ECUADOR

Galapagos Islands

1 Guayaquil

PERU

Machu Picchu 1 Sacred Valley Lima 3 2 3 Cusco (2,1) BRAZIL

Rio de Janeiro Iguazu Falls

3

2

CHILE

ARGENTINA

Snoozing sea lion Marion Bunnik

Santiago 2

Special Experience: We enjoy lunch among the giant tortoises. Day 15. Galapagos Islands Another great day as we continue to explore the Galapagos Islands! We’ll see an amazing array of unique wildlife and plenty of exotic fish. [B,L]

Start

Day 16. Galapagos Islands - Lima We are transferred to the airport for our flight to Lima via Quito. [B]

2016

Day 17. Lima - Cusco - Sacred Valley Our tour takes us to Cusco then on to the Sacred Valley where we explore the lively markets and ruins at Pisac. [B] Day 18. Sacred Valley This morning we climb a steep stone staircase to the ruins of Ollantaytambo, an impressive Incan fortress. Later we explore the salt ponds at Maras and the elliptical terraces of Moray. [B] Special Experience: Enjoy a drink of chicha and taste some guinea pig at a local Chicheria. Day 19. Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu A truly magical day as we travel by special Vistadome train through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu - the famous Lost City of the Incas. Located high up in the Andes Mountains, the sheer magnitude of Machu Picchu will take your breath away. Our expert guide will explain its fascinating history, after which there is time to explore on our own space. [B,D] Day 20. Machu Picchu - Cusco There is time this morning to return to Machu Picchu for a second, optional, visit. Later we visit Chinchero for a weaving demonstration before travelling to Cusco. [B] Day 21. Cusco Today we explore Cusco, beginning with a visit to Koricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the 17th century Cathedral of Santo Domingo. We then explore the fascinating fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the Incan baths at Tambomachay. [B] Day 22. Cusco Enjoy a day at leisure. [B] Day 23. Cusco - Santiago We fly to Santiago via Lima today. [B] Day 24. Santiago In Santiago our sightseeing tour includes La Moneda and the Plaza de Armas, then we visit a lookout for an amazing view over the city. This afternoon we visit the wine region

Dates & Prices Finish Total cost Start pp, twin share


06-Apr 01-May $17,695

24-Aug 18-Sep $17,695

04-May 29-May $17,695

07-Sep

02-Oct $17,695

18-May 12-Jun $17,695

21-Sep

16-Oct $17,695

01-Jun 26-Jun $17,695

05-Oct 30-Oct $17,695

15-Jun 10-Jul $17,695

19-Oct 13-Nov $17,695

29-Jun 24-Jul $17,695

09-Nov 04-Dec $17,695

Buenos Aires 3


Inclusions travel: • Return economy-class flights from Australia to South America. Taxes included. • 10 internal flights within South America

20-Jul 14-Aug $17,695 2017 22-Mar 16-Apr $18,195

• All airport transfers on the first and last day of tour

01-Feb 26-Feb $18,195

05-Apr 30-Apr $18,395


15-Feb 12-Mar $18,195

19-Apr

18-Jan 12-Feb $18,195

14-May $18,395

15-Mar 09-Apr $18,195

transportation: Coach, plane, speed boat & train




• 22 nights in good quality hotels (3½4½ star)

single supplement: From $4,150 day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary, depending on your city of departure.

• 1 night stay inside Iguazu Falls NP • 1 night stay in a nature retreat in Aguas Calientes • 24 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinner

tour guides: The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,430. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.





of Maipo Valley, before our group farewell dinner. [B,D] Day 25. Depart Santiago We begin our journey home. [B] Day 26. Arrive in Australia

Understanding the map For a detailed map legend go to pg 63.

24

Small Group Touring Colombia, Ecuador & the Galapagos

Coffee Triangle Annelieke Huijgens

COLOMBIA, ECUADOR & THE GALAPAGOS Colombia and Ecuador are the surprise packages of South America combining great natural beauty, colourful colonial architecture, fascinating archaeological ruins and wonderful, warm people! Add to this the amazing wildlife of the Galapagos Islands and you’ve got the trip of a lifetime!

Highlights • Explore Colombia’s Coffee Triangle • Enjoy a 4WD drive through the scenic Cocora Valley • Take part in a wax palm planting ceremony in Colombia’s Cocora Valley! • Explore the underground Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá • Walk through the colonial streets of Villa de Leyva • Visit Ecuador’s best rose plantations • Spend 4 incredible nights in the Galapagos Islands

days:

New Tour

Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Lima Welcome to Lima! On arrival we will be met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Lima We begin with a city tour of cosmopolitan Lima, including the main Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral and the galleries of the Larco Museum. The afternoon is at leisure for you to relax before tonight’s group welcome dinner [B,D] Day 3. Lima - Bogotá - Cartagena Departing Peru, we fly to Colombia arriving in the Caribbean city of Cartagena. [B] Day 4. Cartagena The magnificent walled city of Cartagena is full of incredible Spanish colonial architecture. Our sightseeing includes the Church and Monastery of San Pedro Claver, Barricade of Santo Domingo, and San Felipe de Barajas Fortress. [B] Day 5. Cartagena Enjoy a day at leisure to explore this beautiful city. [B] Day 6. Cartagena - Medellin Our next flight takes us to Medellin - the City of Eternal Spring. We take a sightseeing tour on arrival including the El Pueblito Paisa, Plaza Mayor and the pedestrian walkway of Carabobo. [B,D] Day 7. La Piedra del Peñol & Guatapé We visit La Piedra del Peñol, a huge rock formation with fantastic views of the surrounding area and a quirky criss-cross staircase of almost 700 steps! We continue to the charming village of Guatapé, with its colourful, individually decorated houses, and sample some of the exotic local fruits. [B] Special Experience: Enjoy a scenic boat trip on Lake Guatapé

from

25 15,395pp $

Flights Included

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20

Day 8. Medellin - Coffee Triangle We travel the scenic route through the countryside to the town of Pereira, part of Colombia’s Coffee Growing Axis. [B] Day 9. Coffee Triangle Considered by many to be the best in the world, we take an in-depth look at Colombian coffee, and enjoy a tasting of course! [B] Day 10. Salento & the Cocora Valley Today we take a scenic journey to the small colonial town of Salento, our gateway to the Cocora Valley. We take part in a planting ceremony dedicated to preserving the wax palms, Colombia’s national tree. [B,L] Special Experience: Explore the cloud forest and Cocora Valley by 4WD Day 11. Coffee Triangle - Villa de Leyva Leaving the Coffee Triangle, we fly to Bogotá then head to Zipaquirá, famous for its Salt Cathedral. Located deep inside a salt mine, it’s one of only two salt cathedrals in the world. [B] Day 12. Villa de Leyva - Bogotá We explore the beautiful little colonial town of Villa de Leyva on foot, then travel onward to the capital of Colombia, Bogotá. A cultural mecca, Bogotá is home to museums, art galleries, theatres, national monuments, libraries and universities. [B] Day 13. Bogotá Our day begins with a walking tour of the Candelaria neighbourhood, the historic heart of the city. We also visit the Gold Museum, which houses an important collection of pre-Colombian artwork. [B,D] Special Experience: We learn to cook some Colombian delicacies! Day 14. Bogotá - Otavalo On our last morning in Bogotá we enjoy a cable

Small Group Touring Colombia, Ecuador & the Galapagos

25

3 Cartagena

Medellin 2

Salento Coffee Triangle (Pereira) Galapagos Islands

Otavalo

3

La Piedra Del Peñol 1 Villa de Leyva 2 Bogotá COLOMBIA

2

Quito 1 1 Papallacta

4

1

ECUADOR

Guayaquil

PERU

Coffee-tasting experience Annelieke Huijgens

car ride up Monserrate, the mountain that dominates the city centre, to take in the spectacular views. Then we make our way to the airport for our flight to Ecuador. On arrival we transfer to the town of Otavalo. [B] Day 15. Otavalo The Libertad Train is one of the most beautiful train rides in Ecuador. Travelling from the Andean Mountains of Ibarra through to the cloud forest and subtropical landscape of Salinas, we enjoy some spectacular scenery. [B] Special Experience: We visit the Plaza de Ponchos, famous for textiles and its Handicraft Market. It’s the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs! Day 16. Otavalo - Papallacta We journey through the Andes to Hacienda La Compañia and tour the beautiful rose plantations. Then, we continue to the small village of Papallacta, famous for its hot springs. Here we can enjoy a soak in the warm, thermal waters - which are just outside our hotel rooms! [B] Day 17. Papallacta - Quito On our way to Quito, we stop at the ‘Middle of the World’ where we visit the interesting Mitad del Mundo and Intiñan Museum. It is here that the equator passes through Ecuador so you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere! [B] Day 18. Quito - Galapagos Islands Special Experience: We travel to the Galapagos Islands, one of the world’s most amazing archipelagos! We enjoy lunch among the giant tortoises then continue to the charming harbour town of Puerto Ayora. [B,L] Day 19. Galapagos Islands Another great day as we continue to explore the Galapagos Islands! We’ll get to see an amazing array of unique wildlife and plenty of exotic fish. [B,L]

2 Lima




2016

2017

14-May 07-Jun $15,395

21-Jan

14-Feb $15,695

09-Jul 02-Aug $15,395

18-Feb

14-Mar $15,695

17-Sep 11-Oct $15,395

25-Mar 18-Apr $15,695

12-Nov 06-Dec $15,395 price valid from: Sydney




• 7 internal flights within South America


transportation:


Coach, plane, 4WD jeep, cable car, train & speedboat

The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,350. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. For full terms and conditions please see pages 62 to 63.

• All airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles

accommodation & meals: • 22 nights in good quality hotels (3½-4½ star) • 22 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinner


tips: Day 22. Galapagos Islands - Guayaquil After breakfast we leave the Galapagos and fly to Guayaquil, Ecuador. [B,D]

Day 20. Galapagos Islands Boarding a speedboat we head to the island of San Cristóbal, known for its many arts and crafts shops. [B]

Day 23. Depart Guayaquil We transfer to the airport to fly to Santiago and then begin our journey home. [B]

Day 21. Galapagos Islands Make sure your cameras are charged as we explore San Cristóbal and surrounds. We travel to the highlands and visit the lagoons and beaches, which are home to a number of sea lion colonies. [B,L]

Day 25. Arrive in Australia

Day 24. In Transit

• Tipping Made Easy, $345pp AUD prepaid

Need some inspiration? Read our travel stories on bunniktours.com.au/blog

26

Small Group Touring Cuba, Peru & the Galapagos

Cienfuegos, Cuba Marion Bunnik

CUBA, PERU & THE GALAPAGOS Explore the remarkable Galapagos Islands, colourful Cuba and fascinating Peru. On this fabulous adventure, you’ll discover unique wildlife, explore breathtaking Machu Picchu, visit the ancient Incan capital of Cusco, and barter at lively local markets.

Highlights • Visit the Maipo Valley Chile’s best wine region • Spend 4 incredible nights in the Galapagos Islands • Travel on an underground river in the Cueva del Indo • Enjoy the colourful cities of Havana and Trinidad • Swim under the El Nicho Falls

Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Santiago Welcome to Santiago, Chile’s colourful capital. On arrival, we will be met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Santiago This morning we explore historic and modern Santiago, stopping at a lookout to take in amazing views of the city. We travel to Maipo Valley, considered the best wine-producing region in Chile, and enjoy a group welcome dinner this evening. [B,D] Day 3. Santiago - Guayaquil We fly to Guayaquil, Ecuador’s main seaport and gateway to the Galapagos. [B] Day 4. Guayaquil - Galapagos Islands Special Experience: This morning we travel to the Galapagos Islands, one of the world’s most amazing archipelagos! We enjoy lunch among the giant tortoises then continue to the charming harbour town of Puerto Ayora. [B,L] Day 5. Galapagos Islands Another great day as we continue to explore the Galapagos Islands! We’ll get to see an amazing array of unique wildlife and plenty of exotic fish. [B,L] Day 6. Galapagos Islands We board a speedboat for the island of San Cristóbal, known for its many arts and crafts shops. [B]

• Explore the ruins and markets of Peru’s Sacred Valley

Day 7. Galapagos Islands Make sure your cameras are charged as we explore San Cristóbal and surrounds. We’ll travel to the highlands and visit the lagoons and beaches that are home to a number of sea lion colonies. [B,L]

• Visit the spectacular Incan city of Machu Picchu

Day 8. Galapagos Islands - Lima After breakfast, we fly to Lima via Guayaquil. [B]

days:

28

from

17,295pp

$

Flights Included

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20

Day 9. Lima - Havana We fly to Havana, Cuba’s vibrant capital city. [B,D] Day 10. Havana - Vinales - Las Terrazas As we travel through the beautiful region of Pinar del Rio, we visit the small village of Vinales where we walk around the colourful Mural de la Prehistoria, one of the world’s biggest outdoor paintings. [B,L] Special Experience: We visit a tobacco field and enjoy lunch with a local family. Day 11. Las Terrazas Heading into the Sierra del Rosario Mountains, we stop to visit a 19th century coffee plantation. Later we’ll enjoy a dip in the healing and rejuvenating waters of the Banos del Rio San Juan River. [B] Day 12. Las Terrazas - Cienfuegos Today we travel to Cienfuegos, the ‘Pearl of the South’. After lunch, we’ll visit Teatro Tomás Terry and the historic town centre. [B,L] Special Experience: We relax on board a sunset catamaran cruise in the Bay of Cienfuegos. Day 13. Cienfuegos - Trinidad On our way to Trinidad we’ll visit the beautiful El Nicho National Park, home to Cuba’s most spectacular waterfalls. [B,L] Day 14. Trinidad The UNESCO World Heritage-listed colonial city of Trinidad is the focus of today’s sightseeing, which includes the Plaza Mayor and Museo Romantico. [B,L] Day 15. Trinidad - Havana Returning to Havana, we visit the Che Guevara Mausoleum in Santa Clara. [B,L] Day 16. Havana Riding in classic cars, we explore the artistic areas

Small Group Touring Cuba, Peru & the Galapagos Locals in Peru Marion Bunnik

27

St Kitts & Nevis

Havana Sea LasCaribbean (1,3) Santa St Vincent & the Grenadines Nicaragua Terrazas Clara 4 CUBA Grenada 2

1

Panama

2 Trinidad

Vinales

Cienfuegos

Galapagos Islands 4

Guayaquil 1

PERU

Lima 3 (1,2)

of Jaimanitas, Casa Fuster and Callejon de Hamel, and the modern neighbourhood of Vedado. Later we take a horse-drawn carriage back our hotel. [B] Day 17. Havana Spend a day at leisure before regrouping tonight for dinner at a local restaurant. [B,D] Day 18. Havana - Lima We fly back to Lima. [B] Day 19. Lima We explore the Peruvian capital where our sightseeing includes the Plaza Mayor, Lima Cathedral and Convento de San Francisco and the famous Larco Museum. [B] Day 20. Lima - Cusco - Sacred Valley Today we fly to Cusco, the Incan capital of ancient times. On arrival we travel to the Sacred Valley and explore Pisac, with its impressive ruins and colourful market. [B] Day 21. Sacred Valley This morning we climb a steep stone staircase to the ruins of Ollantaytambo, an impressive Incan fortress. Later we explore the salt ponds at Maras and the elliptical terraces of Moray. [B] Special Experience: Enjoy a drink of chicha and taste some guinea pig at a local Chicheria. Day 22. Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu A magical day as we travel by special Vistadome train through the Sacred Valley to the famous Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. Located high up in the Andes, the sheer magnitude of this spiritual place will take your breath away. [B,D]

Day 25. Cusco A final day at leisure to rest and relax, or further explore this colourful city before our group farewell dinner. [B,D] Day 26. Cusco - Lima - Santiago We fly to Santiago via Lima. [B] Day 27. Depart Santiago Today we begin our journey home. [B] Day 28. Arrive in Australia

2

3 Cusco

Dates & Prices CHILE

Start


2016


2017

20-May 16-Jun $17,295

13-Jan

09-Feb $18,495

03-Jun* 30-Jun $17,695

17-Feb

16-Mar $18,195

19-Aug 15-Sep $17,695

14-Apr

11-May $18,195

Santiago 3 (2,1)

07-Oct 03-Nov $17,495 price valid from: Sydney other departure cities: Clients from Melbourne & Brisbane add $100pp, from Adelaide add $300, and from Perth add $500. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details.


single supplement: From $2,900 day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary, depending on your city of departure. *Please note: 3 June 2016 departure will enjoy Inti Raymi Festival in Cusco. The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,880. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. For full terms and conditions please see pages 62 to 63.

Day 23. Machu Picchu - Cusco This morning is at leisure, with the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit. Later we visit Chinchero for a weaving demonstration before travelling to Cusco. [B] Day 24. Cusco Our day begins with a visit to the fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the Incan baths at Tambomachay. This afternoon we enjoy a short walking tour where we’ll see the Cathedral of Santa Domingo and Koricancha (Temple of the Sun). [B]

Machu Picchu 1 Sacred Valley

Inclusions travel: • Return economy-class flights from Australia to South America. Taxes included. • 1 return economy-class flight from Peru to Cuba • 7 internal flights within South America • All airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles

transportation: Coach, plane, speedboat, train, boat & classic car


A Word of Advice A trip to Cuba is a unique and rewarding experience, however part of Cuba’s charm is its naivety. This means that hotels, transport and facilities sometimes lack the creature comforts Australians are used to. Travel in Cuba requires an adventurous spirit!

• 23 nights in good quality hotels (3-4½ star) • 2 nights in Casa Particulars in Trinidad • 1 night stay in a nature retreat in Aguas Calientes • 26 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 5 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners



28

Small Group Touring Mexico, Guatemala & Costa Rica

Antigua, Guatemala Jeremy van Heerde

MEXICO, GUATEMALA & COSTA RICA This exhilarating tour combines the ancient history of the Mayans with incredible national parks and wildlife viewing. From archaeological ruins to tropical rainforest, seething volcanoes and dreamlike cloud forests, Mexico, Guatemala and Costa Rica are waiting to be discovered!

Highlights • Explore the mysterious ruins of Teotihuacan and Tikal • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage town of Antigua • Enjoy incredible wildlife viewing in the Tortugero & Manuel Antonio National Parks

days:

New Tour

Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Mexico City Welcome to Mexico! On arrival, we will be met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Mexico City We begin with a tour of bustling Mexico City. We visit the Zocalo, the main city square, built out of the stones of ancient palaces and temples, and the National Palace. The afternoon is at leisure, before tonight’s group welcome dinner. [B,L,D] Special Experience: View the famous murals by Diego Rivera inside the National Palace. Day 3. Mexico City We explore Teotihuacan, one of the most impressive and mysterious archaeological sites in Mexico, known for its impressive Temples of the Sun and the Moon. We also visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, an important Christian pilgrimage site in Latin America. [B,L] Day 4. Mexico City - Tuxtla - San Cristóbal From Mexico City we fly to Tuxtla. En route to San Cristóbal we enjoy a cruise through the spectacular Sumidero Canyon. [B,L] Day 5. San Cristóbal Special Experience: We visit the indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zincantan, in the mountains surrounding San Cristóbal. We learn about the Mayan culture and traditions which are still alive today. [B,L]

• Hike Arenal Volcano and National Park

Day 6. San Cristóbal Spend a day at leisure enjoying the charming town of San Cristóbal de las Casas. [B]

• Relax on the pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio & Playa del Carmen

Day 7. San Cristóbal - Palenque Driving through lush green valleys, we head back

from

34 16,995pp $

Flights Included

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20

down the mountain to Palenque. Along the way, we visit the beautiful Agua Azul waterfalls. [B,L] Day 8. Palenque Our morning is dedicated to the nearby ancient Mayan site of Palenque, which boasts several magnificent pyramids. The afternoon is at leisure. [B] Day 9. Palenque - Flores Today we head across the border to Flores in Guatemala. [B,D] Day 10. Tikal National Park We travel to the ruins of the great Mayan city of Tikal, which lies amidst lush rainforest. The largest of Mayan cities during the Classic period 1,000 years ago, it represents one of the most impressive achievements of the Mayan civilisation. [B] Day 11. Flores - Cobán We see the fascinating formations of the Candelaria Caves then continue on to the city of Cobán. [B,L] Day 12. Semuc Champey Travelling in 4x4 vehicles we enjoy a day trip to Semuc Champey. With its natural limestone bridge and turquoise blue pools, it’s often described as a natural paradise. [B] Day 13. Cobán - Panajachel We attempt to spot Guatemala’s national bird, the quetzal, on a short hike in Biotopo del Quetzal, then continue to the lakeside town of Panajachel. [B,L] Day 14. Panajachel Boarding a boat on stunning Lake Atitlán we visit the villages of Santiago Atitlán and San Juan la Laguna. [B] Special Experience: We visit the home of the Mayan god Maximon in Santiago Atitlan.

Small Group Touring Mexico, Guatemala & Costa Rica Day 15. Panajachel - Chichicastenango Enjoy a well-earned rest this morning before our drive to Chichicastenango. [B] Day 16. Chichicastenango - Antigua Special Experience: We visit the colourful and vibrant market of Chichicastenango - the best in Central America. In the afternoon we drive to Antigua via the archaeological site of Iximche. [B,D]

Playa del 31 Carmen

Mexico City 3

Palenque 2

Tuxtla

Tikal NP 2 Flores

3 San

Cristóbal

Day 17. Antigua Known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture, we’ll explore Antigua on foot visiting Ciudad Vieja and Cerro de La Cruz. [B]

2 Cobán

MEXICO

Chichicastenango 1 Panajachel

2

3 Antigua

GUATEMALA

Day 18. Antigua Enjoy a day at leisure to relax or explore. [B]

Arenal Volcano NP 2 2 Tortugero NP Monteverde 2 2 San Jose (1,1)

Day 19. Antigua - San Jose From Antigua we’ll head to Guatemala City to board our flight to San Jose, the historical capital of Costa Rica, where we’ll enjoy a tour of the city’s highlights. [B] Day 20. San Jose - Tortugero NP Today we venture into the Costa Rican wilds, boarding a boat on the fringe of Tortugero National Park to enter the flooded forest and head to our lodge. [B,L,D] Day 21. Tortugero National Park Exploring the canals and backwaters of Tortugero NP we’ll spot a huge variety of wildlife including agoutis, iguanas, sloths, frogs, monkeys and hundreds of colourful birds and crabs. There’s also the possibility of seeing the sea turtles for which the area is famous. [B,L,D] Day 22. Tortugero National Park - Arenal Volcano National Park We travel to the famous Arenal Volcano National Park and enjoy a soak in the hot springs at our hotel. [B] Day 23. Arenal Volcano National Park Arenal Volcano NP is a 12,000 hectare area that comprises rainforest, savannah, and two volcanoes. On a short hike we’ll learn about Arenal, which was once the country’s most active volcano. [B] Day 24. Arenal Volcano NP - Monteverde Special Experience: We’ll travel from Arenal to Monteverde by road and boat, stopping to enjoy a local farmers’ lunch and try our hand at tilapia fishing. We’ll also visit a coffee and sugar cane plantation as we travel through the cloud forest to Monteverde. [B,L] Day 25. Monteverde No need for the binoculars today as we explore the Selvatura forest from the hanging bridges suspended high in the forest canopy. The afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy your surroundings. [B] Day 26. Monteverde - Manuel Antonio NP The Guacalillo Estuary and the Tarcoles River offer the opportunity for us to observe one of the largest populations of American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) and discover the hidden gems of the mangroves. [B,L] Day 27. Manuel Antonio National Park Today we’ll explore Manuel Antonio National Park, home to many of Costa Rica’s endangered species. We’ll have time to cool off in the clear water of one of the most pristine beaches in Central America, located within the park. [B] Day 28. Manuel Antonio NP - San Jose We spend the morning at leisure before driving to our next stop - San Jose. [B]

29

2 COSTA RICA

Dates & Prices

Manuel Antonio


Finish

Total cost pp, twin share

09-Apr

12-May

$16,995

14-May

16-Jun

$16,995

20-Aug

22-Sep

$16,995

travel:

29-Oct

01-Dec

$16,995

• Return economy-class flights from Australia to Mexico. Taxes included.

21-Jan

23-Feb

$17,595

25-Feb

30-Mar

$17,595

Start 2016

2017

Inclusions • Internal flight within Mexico

price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane other departure cities: Clients from Adelaide add $275, and from Perth add $400. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details. single supplement: From $4,150 day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary, depending on your city of departure.

• One way economy-class flight from Guatemala to Costa Rica • One way economy-class flight from Costa Rica to Mexico • Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring conducted in airconditioned vehicles

transportation: Coach, plane, boat & 4WD

accommodation & meals: • 31 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star)

The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,660. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. For full terms and conditions please see pages 62 to 63. NOTE: This tour requires a good level of fitness.

Day 29. San Jose - Playa del Carmen We fly to Cancun then transfer to Playa Del Carmen in Mexico. [B] Day 30. Playa del Carmen Another amazing day of antiquities! We drive to Chichén Itzá, the most famous of all Mayan sites and home to the enormous pyramid of Kulkulkan, and recently voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Later, we return to the beach resort of Playa del Carmen. [B]


tour guides: • English-speaking locally based guides


Day 31. Playa del Carmen Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Playa del Carmen. Relax on the beach, snorkel in some of the clearest waters on the planet, or explore the coast. This evening we enjoy a group farewell dinner. [B,D] Day 32. Depart Playa del Carmen Today we are transferred to Cancun airport to begin our journey home. [B] Day 33. In Transit Day 34. Arrive in Australia

30

Small Group Touring Mexico & Cuba

The Zocalo, San Cristóbal Donald Barbour

days:

MEXICO & CUBA

from

28 14,595pp $

Flights Included

This incredible tour combines the best of Mexico & Cuba to give you an insight into the lives and traditions of these two unique and colourful countries. From the rich Mayan history of Mexico, to the salsa clubs of Cuba, this tour has it all!

Highlights • Visit Teotihuacan and the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe • Tour the scenic Oaxaca region • Spend 2 nights in the charming town of San Cristóbal • See the ancient pyramids of Uxmal and Chichén Itzá • Explore the western province of Pinar del Rio, home of the Cuban cigar • Step back in time in colonial Trinidad • Discover colourful Havana

Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Mexico City Welcome to Mexico! On arrival, we will be met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Mexico City We begin with a tour of bustling Mexico City. We visit the Zocalo, the main city square, built out of the stones of ancient palaces and temples, and the National Palace. The afternoon is at leisure, before tonight’s group welcome dinner. [B,L,D] Day 3. Mexico City We explore Teotihuacan, one of the most impressive and mysterious archaeological sites in Mexico, known for its pyramid structures, murals, and impressive Temples of the Sun and the Moon. We also visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, arguably the most important Christian pilgrimage site in Latin America. [B,L] Day 4. Mexico City - Puebla We travel to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Puebla - a Spanish colonial treasure, filled with 17th and 18th century European architecture. [B,L] Day 5. Puebla - Oaxaca Continuing to Oaxaca today, we enjoy a walking tour of the main plaza and historic old town. One of the most diverse states in Mexico, Oaxaca has a sub-tropical climate and is famous for its high peaks and hidden jungles. [B,L] Day 6. Oaxaca An action-packed morning touring the scenic region of Oaxaca. We stop to admire the pyramids and tombs at Monte Alban, the spiritual capital of the Zapotecan people. The ruins extend over the peaks of three mountain ranges that converge in Oaxaca’s central valley. [B,L]

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20

Day 7. Oaxaca - Tehuantepec The morning is at leisure to explore. After lunch we travel to Tehuantepec, a city known for its women and their traditional dress, which was adopted by the artist Frida Kahlo. [B] Day 8. Tehuantepec - San Cristóbal We travel to Chiapa de Corzo before arriving at charming San Cristóbal de las Casas. En route we enjoy a cruise through the Sumidero Canyon. [B,L] Day 9. San Cristóbal Special Experience: We visit the indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zincantan, in the mountains surrounding San Cristóbal. We learn about the Mayan culture and traditions, which are still alive today. [B,L] Day 10. San Cristóbal - Palenque Driving through lush green valleys, we head back down the mountain to Palenque. Along the way we visit the beautiful Agua Azul waterfalls. [B,L] Day 11. Palenque - Campeche Our morning is dedicated to the nearby ancient Mayan site of Palenque. Later, we make our way to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Campeche which retains some of the city walls that once protected it from pirates. [B] Day 12. Campeche - Uxmal - Merida Considered one of the most important of all Mayan sites, we spend time exploring Uxmal. After lunch, we continue to the historic ‘White City’ of Merida. [B,L] Day 13. Merida - Playa del Carmen Another amazing day of antiquities! We explore Chichén Itzá, home to the enormous pyramid of Kulkulkan, recently voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Next we travel to the beach resort of Playa del Carmen. [B,L]

Small Group Touring Mexico & Cuba

Havana Remedios Cayo (1,3) Santa Clara Santa Las 4 2 Maria Terrazas 2 1 Sancti Spiritus Vinales Cienfuegos 2 Trinidad

MEXICO

Merida 1

Mexico City 3

31

2 Playa del

CUBA

Carmen

Campeche 1 1 Puebla

Palenque 1

Oaxaca 2

2 1

San Cristóbal

Tehuantepec Che Guevara Mausoleum, Santa Clara Donald Barbour

Day 14. Playa del Carmen Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Playa del Carmen. Relax on the beach, or snorkel in some of the clearest waters on the planet, then meet up this evening for a group dinner to bid farewell to Mexico. [B,D] Day 15. Playa del Carmen - Havana We fly to Cuba and meet in the evening for dinner. [B,D] Day 16. Havana - Vinales - Las Terrazas As we travel through the beautiful region of Pinar del Rio, we visit the small village of Vinales. Here we walk around the colourful Mural de la Prehistoria - one of the world’s biggest outdoor paintings. [B,L] Day 17. Las Terrazas Our journey takes us through the Sierra del Rosario Mountains, where we visit a 19th century coffee plantation. [B] Day 18. Las Terrazas - Cienfuegos We head to Cienfuegos, the ‘Pearl of the South’. After lunch, we visit Teatro Tomás Terry and the historic town centre. [B,L] Special Experience: Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Bay of Cienfuegos. Day 19. Cienfuegos - Trinidad On our way to Trinidad we visit the beautiful El Nicho National Park, home to Cuba’s most spectacular waterfalls. [B,L] Day 20. Trinidad Step back in time as we explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed colonial city of Trinidad. [B,L] Special Experience: Enjoy one of Cuba’s lesser known cocktails, the ‘Canchanchara’. Day 21. Trinidad - Sancti Spiritus Remedios, Cayo Santa Maria We visit Sancti Spiritus which remains largely untouched by mainstream tourism, and the town of Remedios where we stroll through the idyllic main square and admire its splendid 16th century church. Then we travel over a 37km-long causeway to the island paradise of Cayo Santa Maria. [B,L] Day 22. Cayo Santa Maria Enjoy a day at leisure on the beach. [B]





2016 11-Apr 08-May $14,595

19-Sep

25-Apr 22-May $14,595

10-Oct 06-Nov $14,595

16-Oct $14,895

Inclusions

09-May 05-Jun $14,595

24-Oct 20-Nov $14,595

travel:

23-May 19-Jun $14,595

07-Nov 04-Dec $14,595

05-Sep 02-Oct $14,595

21-Nov 18-Dec $14,595

• Return economy-class flights from Australia to Mexico and Cuba. Taxes included.

16-Jan 12-Feb $14,995

13-Mar 09-Apr $14,995

• One way economy-class flight from Mexico to Cuba

13-Feb 12-Mar $14,995

27-Mar 23-Apr $14,995

2017

27-Feb 26-Mar $14,995 price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane

• Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring conducted in airconditioned vehicles

other departure cities: Clients from Adelaide add $275, and from Perth add $400. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details.

transportation:




• 23 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star)


areas of Jaimanitas, Casa Fuster and Callejon de Hamel, and the modern neighbourhood of Vedado. Later we take a horse-drawn carriage back to our hotel. [B]

Day 23. Cayo Santa Maria - Santa Clara Havana Heading back to Havana we stop in Santa Clara, where we’ll see the Che Guevara Mausoleum. [B,L]

Day 25. Havana Spend a day at leisure exploring Havana. [B,D]

Day 24. Havana Riding in classic cars, we explore the artistic

Day 27. In Transit

Day 26. Depart Havana Our homeward journey begins. [B] Day 28. Arrive in Australia

Coach, boat, plane, catamaran (subject to change) & classic car

• 2 nights in Casa Particulars in Trinidad • 25 breakfasts, 16 lunches and 4 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners




32

Small Group Touring Viva Mexico

The Pyramid of the Magician, Uxmal Marion Bunnik

days:

VIVA MEXICO

17

from

8,195pp

$

Flights Included

Tequila, margaritas, nachos and music quintessential elements of the Mexican zest for life! From bustling Mexico City to the ancient Mayan pyramids, come join the party as we explore the culture and traditions that make up this wonderful country.

Highlights • Tour bustling Mexico City • Visit the archaeological site of Teotihuacan and the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe • Explore the scenic region of Oaxaca • Swim in the beautiful Agua Azul waterfalls • Explore the ancient site of Palenque • See the great pyramid of Kulkulkan at Chichén Itzá • Relax on the beaches of Playa del Carmen

Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Mexico City Welcome to Mexico! On arrival, we will be met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Mexico City We begin with a tour of bustling Mexico City. We tour the Zocalo, the main city square, which is constructed out of the stones of ancient palaces and temples. Later, we visit the National Palace, followed by lunch and time at leisure, before tonight’s group welcome dinner. [B,L,D] Special Experience: View the famous murals by Diego Rivera inside the National Palace. Day 3. Mexico City After breakfast, we visit the site of Teotihuacan, considered one of the most impressive and mysterious archaeological sites in Mexico. The city was established in 100BC and the name Teotihuacan roughly translates as ‘Birthplace of the Gods’. It is known for its pyramid structures, wellpreserved murals and the impressive Temples of the Sun and the Moon. We also visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, arguably the most important Christian pilgrimage site in Latin America. [B,L] Day 4. Mexico City - Puebla We depart Mexico City and travel to Puebla. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, the city has had many names over the years, including ‘City of Angels’ and ‘City of Tiles’. The historic downtown area remains a Spanish colonial treasure and is filled with 17th and 18th century European architecture. Puebla is famous for its Baroquestyle churches, local ceramics and delectable dishes, including the Mole Poblana sauce - watch out, it’s a bit spicy! [B,L]

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20

Day 5. Puebla - Oaxaca Continuing to Oaxaca today, we enjoy a walking tour of the main plaza and historic old town. One of the most diverse states in Mexico, Oaxaca has a sub-tropical climate and is famous for its high peaks and hidden jungles. [B,L] Day 6. Oaxaca We tour the scenic region surrounding Oaxaca. We stop to admire the pyramids and tombs at Monte Alban, the spiritual capital of the Zapotecan people. The ruins extend over the peaks of three mountain ranges that converge in Oaxaca’s central valley. These mountain ranges are home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in all of Mexico. [B,L] Day 7. Oaxaca - Tehuantepec Your morning is at leisure to explore. After lunch, we travel to Tehuantepec, a city known for its women and their traditional dress, which was adopted by the artist Frida Kahlo. [B] Day 8. Tehuantepec - San Cristóbal We travel to Chiapa de Corzo before arriving at charming San Cristóbal de las Casas. En route we enjoy a cruise through the Sumidero Canyon. [B,L] Day 9. San Cristóbal Special Experience: We visit the indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zincantan, in the mountains surrounding San Cristóbal. We learn about the Mayan culture and traditions, which are still alive today. [B,L] Day 10. San Cristóbal - Palenque Driving through lush green valleys, we head back down the mountain to Palenque. Along the way we visit the beautiful Agua Azul waterfalls, set in one of the country’s most attractive areas. [B,L]

Small Group Touring Viva Mexico

33

MEXICO

3

2

Merida 1

Mexico City

Campeche 1

Playa del Carmen

1 Puebla

Palenque 1

Oaxaca 2

2 1

Tehuantepec

San Cristóbal

San Juan Chamula Marion Bunnik

Colourful fruits on display Marion Bunnik





2016

Day 11. Palenque - Campeche Our entire morning is dedicated to the nearby ancient Mayan site of Palenque, which boasts several magnificent pyramids, covered in parts by lush tropical jungle. In the afternoon, we make our way to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Campeche. This old Spanish colonial city was founded in 1540, and retains some of the city walls which once protected it from pirates and buccaneers. [B] Day 12. Campeche - Merida An incredible day visiting Uxmal, considered the most important of all Mayan sites. After lunch, we continue to historic Merida, known as the ‘White City’ due to its colonial buildings. Here we enjoy a city tour that includes the Cathedral, Government Palace, Town Hall and the House of Montejo. [B,L] Day 13. Merida - Playa del Carmen Another amazing day of antiquities! We explore Chichén Itzá, home to the enormous pyramid of Kulkulkan. Recently voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, this 27m-tall pyramid was built between the 13th and 16th centuries, directly upon the foundations of previous temples. Later, we arrive in the beach resort of Playa del Carmen. [B,L] Day 14. Playa del Carmen Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Playa del Carmen. Relax on the beach, snorkel in some of the clearest waters on the planet, or explore the coast. This evening we enjoy a group farewell dinner. [B,D]

11-Apr 27-Apr $8,195

19-Sep

25-Apr 11-May $8,195

10-Oct 26-Oct $8,195

05-Oct $8,395

09-May 25-May $8,195

24-Oct 09-Nov $8,195

travel:

23-May 08-Jun $8,195

07-Nov 23-Nov $8,195

05-Sep 21-Sep $8,195

21-Nov 07-Dec $8,195

• Return economy-class flights from Australia to Mexico. Taxes included. • Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour

2017 16-Jan 01-Feb $8,295

13-Mar 29-Mar $8,295

13-Feb 01-Mar $8,295

27-Mar 12-Apr $8,295

27-Feb 15-Mar $8,295 price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane other departure cities: Clients from Adelaide add $275, and from Perth add $400. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details. single supplement: From $1,050 day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary, depending on your city of departure. The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $875. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.

• All touring conducted in airconditioned vehicles

transportation: Coach, boat & plane

accommodation & meals: • 14 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star) • 14 breakfasts, 10 lunches and group welcome and farewell dinners



All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. For full terms and conditions please see pages 62 to 63.

Why Not Combine Mexico & Cuba? Our Mexico & Cuba tour combines the Viva Mexico and Cuban Discovery itineraries, so you’ll see it all!

Day 16. In Transit

Be amongst the last to see Cuba before mass tourism changes it’s unique culture forever - take a ride in an American classic car, swim in the El Nicho waterfalls, and see how Cuban cigars are made.


See our Mexico & Cuba tour on p 30.

Day 15. Depart Playa del Carmen Today we are transferred to the airport to begin our journey home. [B]

Inclusions

Comparing Us? Remember our prices include: • International airfares • Air taxes and fuel surcharges • Accommodation • Many meals • Pre-paid tipping

34

Small Group Touring Cuban Discovery

Trinidad Marion Bunnik

days:

CUBAN DISCOVERY

from

15 10,295pp $

Flights Included

Castro’s Cuba is a fascinating step back in time! Its unique culture is a blend of Spanish, Caribbean, native Indian and African cultures all mixed together to create the Cuban way of life, full of dance and colour. Experience the ‘real’ Cuba before mass tourism changes its unique character forever!

Highlights • Tour the colourful Cuban capital of Havana • Explore the western province of Pinar del Rio, home of the Cuban cigar • Visit the Cueva del Indio on an underground boat tour • Swim in the refreshing waters of the El Nicho waterfalls • Step back in time in colonial Trinidad

Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Cancun Welcome to Mexico! On arrival we will be transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Cancun - Havana We fly onward to Cuba where we will meet this evening for dinner. [B,D] Day 3. Havana - Vinales - Las Terrazas We take the ‘tobacco route’ through the beautiful, green region of Pinar del Rio, stopping en route to learn about the tobacco growing and the drying process, integral to the country’s most famous export - cigars. We visit the small village of Vinales where we see the colourful Mural de la Prehistoria - one of the world’s biggest outdoor paintings. [B,L] Special Experience: We enjoy a real Cuban lunch prepared for us by a local family at their paladar (private restaurant). Day 4. Las Terrazas Las Terrazas is a UNESCO biosphere reserve in the Sierra del Rosario Mountains, and site of the earliest surviving coffee plantations in Cuba. We’ll spend the day exploring this stunning area including a visit to the botanic garden which contains more than 700 different types of orchid. [B] Day 5. Las Terrazas - Cienfuegos Today we travel to Cienfuegos, the ‘Pearl of the South’, situated on Cuba’s most spectacular natural bay. We enjoy lunch at the elegant Palacio del Valle, the most famous building in Cienfuegos, then visit the Teatro Tomás Terry and the historic town centre. [B,L] Special Experience: At sunset we enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Bay of Cienfuegos.

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20

Day 6. Cienfuegos - Trinidad This morning we take a short hike to the beautiful El Nicho waterfalls, cascading over rocks into cool swimming holes - we might even take a quick dip! We’ll have lunch in the El Nicho restaurant then continue on to Trinidad. Later we’ll experience some real Cuban culture with an evening of live music. [B,L] Day 7. Trinidad Founded in 1514, Trinidad is Cuba’s best-preserved colonial city and is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. Our city walking tour includes the Plaza Mayor and Museo Romantico, a former palace and home of an 18th century sugar baron. [B,L] Special Experience: Enjoy one of Cuba’s lesser known cocktails, the ‘Canchanchara’. Day 8. Trinidad - Sancti Spiritus - Remedios, Cayo Santa Maria Today we drive through the Escambray Mountains to visit the Manaca Iznaga Tower, with its wonderful view over the ‘valley of the sugar cane mills’. We’ll enjoy a typical Cuban lunch in the colonial town of Sancti Spiritus, which remains largely untouched by mainstream tourism. We stop in the town of Remedios where we stroll through the idyllic main square and admire its splendid 16th century church. Then travel over a 37km-long causeway to the nature island paradise of Cayo Santa Maria. [B,L] Day 9. Cayo Santa Maria The day is yours to relax and enjoy the beautiful beach setting. [B] Day 10. Cayo Santa Maria - Santa Clara - Havana On our journey back to Havana we stop in the town of Santa Clara, where Che Guevara celebrated his greatest victory and was also laid to rest. We’ll see the Che Guevara Mausoleum which

Small Group Touring Cuban Discovery

Havana (1,3) Las Terrazas 2 Vinales

4

Santa Clara 1

Cienfuegos

Cayo Santa Maria 2 Remedios

2

Sancti Spiritus

Trinidad

Cancun

35

CUBA

1

MEXICO

Cuban street art Marion Bunnik

houses the remains of the executed Marxist revolutionary. [B,L] Day 11. Havana Riding in classic cars, we explore the city of Havana including the artistic areas of Jaimanitas, Casa Fuster and Callejon de Hamel where many of the streets feature murals and sculptures. We’ll also tour the modern neighbourhood of Vedado with its wide range of architectural styles. Later we take a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride back to our hotel. [B] Day 12. Havana Spend the day at leisure exploring the quirky and colourful city of Havana. Tonight we’ll share a special farewell dinner at the Paladar La Guarida - some say the hardest table to get in Havana, and the location of the Oscarnominated 1992 film, ‘Fresa y Chocolate’. [B,D] Day 13. Depart Havana We are transferred to the airport to begin our journey home. [B] Day 14. In Transit Day 15. Arrive in Australia

Why Not Combine Mexico & Cuba? Our Mexico & Cuba tour combines the Viva Mexico and Cuban Discovery itineraries, so you’ll see it all! Experience bustling Mexico City, visit the archaeological site of Teotihuacan and the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, swim in the beautiful Agua Azul waterfalls, relax on the beaches of Playa del Carmen, plus much more.





2016 24-Apr 08-May $10,295

02-Oct 16-Oct $10,595

08-May 22-May $10,295

23-Oct 06-Nov $10,295

Inclusions

22-May 05-Jun $10,295

06-Nov 20-Nov $10,295

travel:

05-Jun 19-Jun $10,295

20-Nov 04-Dec $10,295

18-Sep 02-Oct $10,595

04-Dec 18-Dec $10,295

• Return economy-class flights from Australia to Mexico and Cuba. Taxes included.

29-Jan 12-Feb $10,695

26-Mar 09-Apr $10,695

• One way economy-class flight from Mexico to Cuba

26-Feb 12-Mar $10,695

09-Apr 23-Apr $10,695

2017

12-Mar 26-Mar $10,695 price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane

• Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring conducted in airconditioned vehicles

other departure cities: Clients from Adelaide add $275, and from Perth add $400. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details.

transportation:




• 10 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star)


Coach, plane, boat, catamaran (subject to change) & classic car

• 2 nights in Casa Particulars in Trinidad • 12 breakfasts, 6 lunches and group welcome and farewell dinners



See our Mexico & Cuba tour on p 30.

A Word of Advice A trip to Cuba is a unique and rewarding experience, however part of Cuba’s charm is its naivety. This means that hotels, transport and facilities sometimes lack the creature comforts Australians are used to. Travel in Cuba requires an adventurous spirit! Books of Che Bryan Bevan

36

Cruise & Tour Concept

“Highlights were the Galapagos, Machu Picchu and Iguazu Falls, all completely unforgettable and absolutely unique. There was a good balance between guided sightseeing and free time to do our own thing.” - Meredith Pike (Best of South America & the Galapagos Jan 2015)

Cruise & Tour Concept

37

CRUISE & TOUR CONCEPT A Bunnik Cruise & Tour gives you the best of both worlds! By partnering with the world’s leading cruise lines we are able to bring you a seamless experience that combines the benefits of small group land touring, with the luxury of ocean cruising.

THE TOUR

THE CRUISE

The land portion of your Cruise & Tour is the same as any other Bunnik small group tour - and delivers all same the benefits.

For the second part of your holiday you’ll board a luxury ocean cruise.

You’ll enjoy a stress-free holiday with all the research, planning and logistics taken care of. You’ll get to see all of the iconic sights, as well as getting off the well-worn tourist trail to enjoy a few special local experiences. You’ll have the support of expert local guides, get to jump the queues at most of the major sights thanks to our special access arrangements, and have plenty of free time for independent exploration. You’ll also have the comfort and safety of travelling in a group of like-minded people and the chance to make new friends amongst your small group of fellow travellers.

For most of our Cruise & Tour packages we’ve partnered with Holland America Line, one of the world’s most respected cruise lines. We’ve also chosen Celebrity Cruises and Australis Cruises for selected routes. You’ll enjoy the luxury of an ocean-view room, onboard entertainment and all your meals. Main meals are served in the dining room, but you can upgrade (at an additional fee) to one of the specialty restaurants for an extra treat. During your time in port you have the option to return to the ship for meals or enjoy the regional cuisine at a local restaurant. We’ve deliberately chosen not to include any pre-arranged sightseeing in the cruise component of your tour, so you can choose

from the wide range of options offered by the cruise company to suit every interest and budget. Alternatively, you may want to do your own thing or stay on board and relax in the spa. Shore excursions can be booked direct with the cruise line, online, before you depart, or while on board (subject to availability).

Value for Money & Convenience A Bunnik Cruise & Tour offers fantastic value for money. By negotiating in bulk with cruise lines, airlines, hotels and local operators we’ve secured preferred rates which we pass on to you.

CRUISING PARTNER S

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE CRUISES From the moment you step aboard one of Holland America Line’s mid-sized ships you will recognize the 5-star difference. Their ships feature spacious wraparound teak decks, panoramic views, abundant spacious private verandahs and large staterooms. Their fleet has recently undergone extensive Signature of Excellence enhancements to staterooms and public rooms. With elegant fine dining, entertaining activities and award-winning service, you’ll discover timeless cruising aboard a Holland America cruise ship.

CELEBRITY CRUISES

AUSTRALIS CRUISES

One thing Celebrity are known for is their level of service - intuitive service with a keen eye for detail. Cold towels after a day at the beach? Done. Your preferred drink handed to you when you sit down to dinner? Done. With nearly one crew member to every two guests, their staff pride themselves on knowing what you want.

Australis are the Patagonian specialists. They aim to give passengers an unforgettable experience, exceptional contact with nature and friendly onboard service. On the Stella Australis guests will enjoy spacious cabins with large viewing windows to take in the spectacular scenery, comfortable lounges and exceptional cuisine.

From port to port and every nautical mile in-between, Celebrity believe every moment of your holiday should be measured by just how far it takes you from the ordinary.

Note: all excursions are included as part of the itinerary on your Australis cruise.

For more information about the ships we use please visit our website.

38

Small Group Touring South American Wonders

Uros Islands, Lake Titicaca Marion Bunnik

SOUTH AMERICAN WONDERS Enjoy a magical tour of South America’s most wondrous sights. Visit Sacred Valley and the breathtaking Machu Picchu, experience the natural wonder that is Iguazu Falls, then it’s on to vibrant Rio de Janeiro before meeting your Holland America Line cruise ship in Buenos Aires.

Highlights • Travel through the incredible Sacred Valley • Visit the awe-inspiring ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu • See the floating reed islands of Uros • Feel the awesome power of Iguazu Falls • Visit the famous sights of Rio including Christ the Redeemer • Tango the night away in Buenos Aires • Cruise spectacular Glacier Alley and round Cape Horn

days:

36

from

17,795pp

$

Flights & Cruise Included

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20 cruising with

Land & Cruise Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Lima Welcome to Lima! On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Lima Our sightseeing in Lima includes the Plaza Mayor, Lima Cathedral, the Convento de San Francisco and the famous Larco Museum. Tonight we enjoy a group welcome dinner. [B,D] Day 3. Lima - Cusco Today we fly to Cusco. Our walking tour includes the Plaza de Armas and the 17th century Cathedral of Santo Domingo. Later we explore Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), which was considered the most spectacular temple in the Incan Empire. [B,L] Day 4. Cusco - Sacred Valley We visit the fascinating fortress of Sacsayhuaman, then travel to the Sacred Valley to explore the lively markets and ruins at Pisac. [B] Day 5. Sacred Valley We climb a steep stone staircase to the impressive Incan ruins of Ollantaytambo. Later we explore the salt ponds at Maras and the terraces of Moray. [B] Day 6. Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu Special Experience: A magical day as we travel by train through the Sacred Valley to the Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. Located high up in the Andes, Machu Picchu’s sheer size will take your breath away. [B,D] Day 7. Machu Picchu - Cusco This morning is at leisure with the option to return

to Machu Picchu for a second visit. Later we visit Chinchero for a weaving demonstration before travelling on to Cusco. [B] Day 8. Cusco Enjoy a day at leisure. [B] Day 9. Cusco - Lake Titicaca Today we travel through the majestic High Andes Mountains to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. We visit the floating Uros Islands, made entirely out of reeds. [B] Day 10. Lake Titicaca - La Paz Special Experience: We cruise across Lake Titicaca today by hydrofoil, visiting the Sun & Moon Islands, before arriving in La Paz. [B,L] Day 11. La Paz Our tour of La Paz includes a visit the San Francisco Colonial Church, Plaza Murillo, a typical Indian street market, and the famous Witches’ Markets. Later we take a trip to the natural wonder of Moon Valley, with its eerie lunar landscape. [B] Day 12. La Paz - Lima - Iguazu Falls We fly to the incredible Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s three biggest waterfalls. [B] Day 13. Iguazu Falls This morning we enjoy a short train ride into the Iguazu National Park to explore the Argentinian side of the Falls. Later we return to Brazil and walk the canyon path, enjoying some spectacular panoramic views. [B]

Small Group Touring South American Wonders

39

Machu Picchu 1 Sacred Valley Lima 2 2 3 Cusco (1,2)

Machu Picchu, Peru Kenn Ortzen-Bario

Puno 1 Lake Titicaca 2 La Paz

PERU

BRAZIL

BOLIVIA

Rio de Janeiro

Iguazu Falls

3

2

CHILE

South Pacific Ocean Valparaiso

Day 14. Iguazu Falls - Rio de Janeiro Before our flight to the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, we visit a colourful bird park that is home to more than 160 species of tropical birds. [B]

3

14-night Holland America Line cruise (ms Zaandam)

Strait of Magellan Cockburn Channel Beagle Channel Glacier Alley Canal Sarmiento Chilean fjords

Punta Arenas

Day 17. Rio de Janeiro - Buenos Aires We fly to Buenos Aires, known as the ‘Paris of the South’ with its European charm, gourmet cuisine and plenty of shopping! [B]

Day 20. Buenos Aires Embark Cruise: This morning is at leisure, before we embark our Holland America Line cruise ship. [B,D] Day 21. Buenos Aires, Argentina Day 22. Montevideo, Uruguay Day 23. Cruising at sea Day 24. Cruising at sea


Finish

Total cost per person Ocean-view

Vista

2016 20-Oct

24-Nov

$17,795

$19,595

17-Nov

22-Dec

$18,495

$20,295

02-Feb

09-Mar

$18,195

$19,995

02-Mar

06-Apr

$18,195

$19,995

Day 31. Chilean fjords, Chile Day 32. Puerto Montt, Chile Day 33. Cruising at sea Day 34. Santiago, Chile Disembark Cruise: After disembarking, we explore the colourful port town of Valparaiso. We then continue to Santiago where our sightseeing includes La Moneda and the Plaza de Armas. Tonight we enjoy a group farewell dinner. [B,D] Day 35. Depart Santiago Today we transfer to the airport to begin our journey home. [B] Day 36. Arrive in Australia

travel: • Return economy-class flights from Australia to South America. Taxes included. • 5 internal flights within South America

• All touring in air-conditioned vehicles • Holland America Line cruise


transportation:


Coach, plane, train, hydrofoil & cruise ship


Day 30. Canal Sarmiento, Chile

Inclusions


2017

Day 26. Strait of Magellan

Day 29. Cape Horn, Chile

Port Stanley

Cape Horn

single supplement: Ocean-view Stateroom from $4,950 Vista Suite from $7,650

Day 28. Ushuaia, Argentina

FALKLAND ISLANDS (ISLAS MALVINAS)

Ushuaia

Day 25. Port Stanley, Falkland Islands (weather permitting) Day 27. Punta Arenas, Cockburn Channel, Beagle Channel & Glacier Alley

South Atlantic Ocean

ARGENTINA

Puerto Montt

Day 16. Rio de Janeiro Enjoy a day at leisure, before regrouping tonight for a barbeque dinner. [B,D]

Day 19. Buenos Aires Today is at leisure, before a lively tango dinner and show experience! [B,D]

Montevideo

Buenos Aires

Day 15. Rio de Janeiro We explore the famous sights of Rio today, including the Statue of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Hill, and the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain! [B]

Day 18. Buenos Aires We spend the morning exploring the charming city of Buenos Aires. We’ll visit the Plaza de Mayo, Recoleta Cemetery and Caminito Street in the colourful La Boca District. [B] Special Experience: Visit the Colon Theatre, the main opera house in Buenos Aires and acoustically considered to be amongst the five best concert venues in the world.

URUGUAY

1 Santiago

accommodation & meals: • 18 nights in good quality hotels (3½4½ star) • 1 night stay in a nature retreat in Aguas Calientes • 1 night stay inside Iguazu Falls NP • 14-night Holland America Line cruise on board ms Zaandam

Please note all meals are included daily while cruising on board the ship. The cruise itinerary may change due to local conditions.


The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,245. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.

tour guides:



• English-speaking locally based tour director and guides (excl. cruise)

port taxes & tips: • Port taxes of AUD $670pp (subject to change) • Total cost includes - Tipping Made Easy amount of $180pp. On board the cruise there is also a tipping surcharge to pay of approx USD$12pp per day.

40

Small Group Touring Best of South America & the Galapagos

Galapagos Islands David Hammett

BEST OF SOUTH AMERICA & THE GALAPAGOS Explore the remarkable, unspoiled islands of the Galapagos on this once in a lifetime adventure. Travel to the Sacred Valley and the magical Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. Then relax on a 14-night Holland America Line cruise from Santiago to Buenos Aires, navigating Cape Horn, the stunning Chilean fjords and spectacular Glacier Alley.

Highlights • Spend four nights on the incredible Galapagos Islands • Explore the Sacred Valley • Visit magical Machu Picchu and stay overnight in an eco-resort • Tango in Buenos Aires • Visit the thunderous Iguazu Falls • Cruise the spectacular Chilean fjords

days:

37

from

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

18,995pp

$

20


cruising with

Land & Cruise Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Santiago Welcome to Santiago, Chile’s colourful capital. On arrival, we will be met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Santiago - Guayaquil This morning we tour historic and modern Santiago. We’ll enjoy a welcome lunch before boarding our flight to Guayaquil, Ecuador’s main seaport. [B,L] Day 3. Guayaquil - Galapagos Islands Special Experience: We fly to the Galapagos Islands, one of the world’s best destinations for wildlife viewing and our home for the next four nights. We enjoy lunch among the giant tortoises. [B,L] Day 4. Galapagos Islands Today we’ll see more of the Islands’ amazing wildlife, including Galapagos penguins, dolphins and plenty of exotic fish. [B,L] Day 5. Galapagos Islands Today we board a speedboat and travel to the island of San Cristóbal, known for its many arts and crafts shops. [B] Day 6. Galapagos Islands Our tour of San Cristóbal Island takes us to the highlands, lagoons and beaches, which are home to large sea lion colonies and blue-footed boobies. [B,L] Day 7. Galapagos Islands - Lima After breakfast we fly to Lima, via Guayaquil. [B] Day 8. Lima - Cusco Today we fly to Cusco. We’ll walk through the city

and explore the Temple of the Sun, considered the most spectacular temple in the Incan Empire. [B,L] Day 9. Cusco Our day begins at the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, before visiting the lively San Pedro Market. This afternoon we’ll explore the San Blas neighbourhood on foot and tour the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral of Santo Domingo. [B] Day 10. Cusco - Sacred Valley After a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, we visit the ruins at Pisac and the lively market, before we explore the archaeological ruins of Ollantaytambo, an impressive Incan fortress. [B] Day 11. Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu Special Experience: A magical day as we travel by train through the Sacred Valley to the Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. Located high up in the Andes, Machu Picchu’s sheer size will take your breath away. [B,D] Day 12. Machu Picchu - Cusco This morning is at leisure with the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit. Later we visit Chinchero for a weaving demonstration before travelling on to Cusco. [B] Day 13. Cusco Enjoy a day at leisure. [B] Day 14. Cusco - Santiago Today we fly to Santiago, via Lima. [B]

Small Group Touring Best of South America & the Galapagos Galapagos Islands 4

Galapagos frigatebird David Hammett

41

ECUADOR

Guayaquil

1

PERU

Machu Picchu Sacred Valley 1 4 Cusco (2,2)

Lima

1

1

BRAZIL

Rio de Janeiro 2

CHILE 2

Iguazu Falls

South Pacific Ocean

ARGENTINA

Valparaiso

URUGUAY

2 Santiago

(1,1)

2

Buenos Aires

Montevideo South Atlantic Ocean

Puerto Montt


Puerto Chacabuco

Day 15. Santiago, Chile Embark Cruise: We explore the port town of Valparaiso and the ‘Garden City’ of Vina del Mar, before boarding our cruise ship. [B,D]

Chilean fjords Canal Sarmiento Glacier Alley Strait of Magellan Cockburn Channel Beagle Channel

Day 16. Cruising at sea

Punta Arenas


Port Stanley

Ushuaia

Day 17. Puerto Montt, Chile Cape Horn

Day 18. Puerto Chacabuco, Chile Day 19. Chilean fjords Day 20. Canal Sarmiento Day 21. Strait Of Magellan, Punta Arenas, Cockburn Channel, Beagle Channel

Dates & Prices

Day 22. Glacier Alley, Ushuaia Day 23. Scenic Cruising Cape Horn Day 24. Port Stanley, Falkland Islands (weather permitting)

Start

Finish


Vista

2016 11-Oct

16-Nov

$19,195

$20,595

08-Nov

14-Dec

$18,995

$20,495

Day 25. Cruising at sea Day 26. Cruising at sea Day 27. Montevideo, Uruguay

2017

Day 28. Buenos Aires, Argentina

21-Feb

Day 29. Buenos Aires, Argentina Disembark Cruise: This morning, we enjoy a sightseeing tour that includes the Plaza de Mayo, Recoleta Cemetery and Caminito Street in La Boca. [B] Day 30. Buenos Aires Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Buenos Aires and prepare for tonight’s tango lesson, then watch the professionals perform in a vibrant dinner-show experience. [B,D] Day 31. Buenos Aires - Iguazu Falls We fly to Iguazu Falls where we explore the Argentinian side, taking in the spectacular views from a platform suspended over the thunderous Devil’s Throat! [B] Day 32. Iguazu Falls Today we tour the Brazilian side of the Falls, then visit a colourful bird park that is home to more than 160 species of tropical birds. [B]

29-Mar

$19,795

$21,295




transportation:

single supplement: Ocean-view Stateroom from $4,950 Vista Suite from $7,550 day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary, depending on your city of departure. Please note all meals are included daily while cruising on board the ship. The cruise itinerary may change due to local conditions. The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,495. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.

Day 34. Rio de Janeiro We explore the famous sights of Rio including Corcovado Hill, the Statue of Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain! [B,D]



• Return economy-class flights from Australia to South America. Taxes included.



Day 36. In Transit

travel:


Day 33. Iguazu Falls - Rio de Janeiro Enjoy a morning at leisure, before our flight to Rio de Janeiro. [B]

Day 35. Depart Rio de Janeiro We begin our journey home. [B]

Inclusions


Coach, plane, boat, speedboat, train & cruise ship

accommodation & meals: • 18 nights in good quality hotels (3½4½ star) • 1 night stay in a nature retreat in Aguas Calientes • 1 night stay inside Iguazu Falls NP • 14-night Holland America Line cruise on board ms Zaandam • 34 breakfasts, 18 lunches and 17 dinners, including group welcome lunch and farewell dinner

tour guides: • English-speaking locally based tour director and guides (excl. cruise)


42

Small Group Touring Peru & Colombia with Glacier Cruise

Machu Picchu, Peru Marion Bunnik

PERU & COLOMBIA WITH GLACIER CRUISE See the icons of Peru and explore enigmatic Colombia on this 37-day Cruise & Tour. Experience a magical train ride through the Sacred Valley, visit incredible Machu Picchu and colourful Cusco, before flying to Colombia’s vibrant capital, Bogotá. Explore the Coffee Triangle and colonial Cartagena. Then board your ship for a scenic cruise of South America’s spectacular coastline.

Highlights • Visit the breathtaking Sacred Valley and the Lost City of Machu Picchu • Explore colourful Cusco • Visit the coffee growing axis • Enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Colombia’s countryside • See colonial Cartagena • Cruise Glacier Alley and the spectacular coastline of South America

days:

New Tour

37

from

16,295pp

$


MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20 cruising with

Land & Cruise Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Lima Welcome to Lima! On arrival we will be transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Lima We explore Lima, including the Plaza Mayor, Lima Cathedral, Convento de San Francisco and the famous Larco Museum. The afternoon is at leisure before tonight’s group welcome dinner. [B,D] Day 3. Lima - Cusco - Sacred Valley We fly to Cusco and travel to the Sacred Valley to explore the lively markets and ruins at Pisac. [B] Day 4. Sacred Valley We climb a steep stone staircase to the archaeological ruins of Ollantaytambo, an impressive Incan fortress. Later we explore the salt ponds at Maras and the elliptical terraces of Moray. [B] Day 5. Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu Special Experience: A magical day as we travel by train through the Sacred Valley to the Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. Located high up in the Andes, Machu Picchu’s sheer size will take your breath away. [B,D] Day 6. Machu Picchu - Cusco This morning is at leisure with the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit. Later we visit Chinchero for a weaving demonstration before travelling on to Cusco. [B] Day 7. Cusco Today we explore Cusco, beginning with the fascinating fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the Incan baths at Tambomachay. We then visit

Koricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the 17th century Cathedral of Santo Domingo. [B] Day 8. Cusco Enjoy a day at leisure in this colourful city. [B] Day 9. Cusco - Bogotá We fly via Lima to Bogotá today, the capital of Colombia and the country’s cultural mecca. [B] Day 10. Bogotá Our tour of Bogotá starts at the Paloquemao Market, where we taste the local produce. Other highlights include Primacy Cathedral, the historic Candelaria area and the Museo del Oro, Bogotá’s famous gold museum. This evening we enjoy a fun cooking class. [B,D] Day 11. Bogotá - Zipaquirá - Coffee Triangle We travel to Zipaquirá to visit its Salt Cathedral, one of only two in the world. We return to Bogotá and fly to the town of Pereira, part of Colombia’s coffee growing axis. [B] Day 12. Coffee Triangle Special Experience: Today we take an indepth look at world-famous Colombian coffee, and enjoy a tasting of course! It is considered by many to be the best in the world! [B] Day 13. Cocora Valley & Salento Our scenic journey takes us to the small colonial town of Salento where we swap our coach for 4WD and go deeper into the cloud forest and Cocora Valley. Later we return to Salento where there is some free time to explore. [B,L]

Small Group Touring Peru & Colombia with Glacier Cruise Cartagena 3

43

North Atlantic Ocean

Medellin 2 Coffee Triangle 3 2 Bogotá COLOMBIA

PERU

Machu Picchu Sacred Valley 2 3 Cusco

1

Lima 2

Local Musicians, Colombia Marion Bunnik

CHILE

Day 14. Coffee Triangle - Medellin We take the scenic route through the countryside to the city of Medellin, known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’. This evening we enjoy a group dinner. [B,D]


1

Day 19. Cartagena - Santiago Today we fly to Santiago via Bogotá. [B] Day 20. Santiago, Chile Embark Cruise: We explore the port town of Valparaiso and the ‘Garden City’ of Vina del Mar, before boarding our cruise ship. [B,D] Day 21. Cruising at sea Day 22. Puerto Montt, Chile Day 23. Puerto Chacabuco, Chile Day 24. Chilean fjords Day 25. Canal Sarmiento Day 26. Strait Of Magellan, Punta Arenas, Cockburn Channel, Beagle Channel Day 27. Glacier Alley, Ushuaia Day 28. Scenic Cruising Cape Horn Day 29. Port Stanley, Falkland Islands (weather permitting) Day 30. Cruising at sea Day 31. Cruising at sea Day 32. Montevideo, Uruguay Day 33. Buenos Aires, Argentina Day 34. Buenos Aires Disembark Cruise: This morning, we enjoy a sightseeing tour that includes the Plaza de Mayo, Recoleta Cemetery and Caminito Street in La Boca. Tonight we learn to tango, then watch the professionals perform in a vibrant dinnershow experience. [B,D] Day 35. Depart Buenos Aires We begin our journey home. [B] Day 36. In Transit Day 37. Arrive in Australia

Montevideo South Atlantic Ocean

Puerto Montt


Puerto Chacabuco Chilean fjords Canal Sarmiento Glacier Alley Strait of Magellan Cockburn Channel Beagle Channel

Day 16. Medellin - Cartagena Our sightseeing today includes the El Pueblito Paisa, Plaza Mayor and the pedestrian walkway of Carabobo. Later we fly to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Cartagena. [B]

Day 18. Cartagena Enjoy a day at leisure. [B]

URUGUAY

1 Santiago

Buenos Aires

Day 15. La Piedra Del Peñol & Guatapé We visit La Piedra del Peñol, a huge rock formation offering panoramic views. Then we continue to the charmingly decorated village of Guatapé where we sample the exotic local fruits. [B]

Day 17. Cartagena We explore the magnificent walled city of Cartagena! We’ll see the Church and Monastery of San Pedro Claver, Barricade of Santo Domingo, Church of La Candelaria and San Felipe de Barajas Fortress. [B]

ARGENTINA

Valparaiso

Punta Arenas


Port Stanley

Ushuaia Cape Horn


Finish


Vista

2016


06-Oct

11-Nov

$16,495

$18,195


03-Nov

09-Dec

$16,295

$17,895


24-Mar

$16,495

$18,095

2017 16-Feb


price valid from: Sydney other departure cities: Clients from Melbourne & Brisbane add $100pp, from Adelaide add $300, and from Perth add $500. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details. single supplement: Ocean-view Stateroom from $3,550 Vista Suite from $6,150 day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary, depending on your city of departure. Please note all meals are included daily while cruising on board the ship. The cruise itinerary may change due to local conditions. The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,545. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. For full terms and conditions please see pages 42 to 43.


transportation: Coach, plane, train, cable car, 4WD & cruise ship

accommodation & meals: • 19 nights in good quality hotels (3½4½ star) • 1 night stay in a nature retreat in Aguas Calientes • 14-night Holland America Line cruise on board ms Zaandam • 34 breakfasts, 14 lunches and 19 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners



44

Small Group Touring Peru, Argentina & Patagonia Cruise

Buenos Aires, Argentina Matt Baldock

PERU, ARGENTINA & PATAGONIA CRUISE This incredible tour takes you to the ‘end of the earth’ - the remote and surreal landscape of Patagonia. Along the way you’ll visit the ancient cities and temples of the Incas, travel through the High Andes Mountains, cross Lake Titicaca and experience the energy and excitement of Argentina.

Highlights • Wander the cobblestone streets of Cusco • Explore the ruins and markets of the Sacred Valley • Experience magical Machu Picchu • Visit the unique floating Uros Islands • Tour colourful Buenos Aires and enjoy a fun tango show • Cruise the breathtaking Patagonian region

days:

New Tour

24

from

14,795pp

$


MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20 cruising with

Land & Cruise Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Lima Welcome to Lima! On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Lima We explore Lima, including the Plaza Mayor, Lima Cathedral, Convento de San Francisco and the famous Larco Museum. The afternoon is at leisure before tonight’s group welcome dinner. [B,D] Day 3. Lima - Cusco Today we fly to Cusco where our walking tour includes the Plaza de Armas and the 17th century Cathedral of Santo Domingo. Later we explore Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), which was considered the most spectacular temple in the Incan Empire. [B,L] Day 4. Cusco - Sacred Valley Our day begins with a visit to the fascinating fortress of Sacsayhuaman. We then travel to the Sacred Valley to explore the lively markets and ruins at Pisac. [B] Day 5. Sacred Valley We climb a steep stone staircase to the archaeological ruins of Ollantaytambo, an impressive fortress built by the Incas. Later we explore the salt ponds at Maras and the elliptical terraces of Moray. [B] Day 6. Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu Special Experience: A magical day as we travel by train through the Sacred Valley to the Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. This afternoon we enjoy a guided tour of this incredible ancient city. [B,D]

Day 7. Machu Picchu - Cusco This morning is at leisure with the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit. Later we visit Chinchero for a weaving demonstration before travelling on to Cusco. [B] Day 8. Cusco Enjoy a day at leisure. [B] Day 9. Cusco - Lake Titicaca Today we travel through the majestic High Andes Mountains to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. On arrival, we visit the floating Uros Islands, made entirely out of reeds. [B] Day 10. Lake Titicaca - La Paz Special Experience: We cruise across Lake Titicaca today by hydrofoil, visiting the Sun & Moon Islands, before arriving in La Paz, capital of Bolivia. [B,L] Day 11. La Paz We explore the city of La Paz! We’ll visit the San Francisco Colonial Church, Plaza Murillo, a typical Indian street market, and the famous Witches’ Markets to find some bargain souvenirs. Later we take a trip to the natural wonder of Moon Valley, with its eerie lunar landscape and eroded earth pillars. [B] Day 12. La Paz - Santiago Welcome to Santiago, Chile’s colourful capital. On arrival, we will be met and transferred to our hotel. [B]

Small Group Touring Peru, Argentina & Patagonia Cruise

45

PERU Machu

Lima 2

Picchu 1 Sacred Valley 2 3 Cusco (1,2) Puno 1

2 La Paz

BRAZIL

BOLIVIA

ARGENTINA

CHILE

Santiago 2

Buenos Aires 3


Ainsworth Bay Tuckers Islets Pia Glacier Glacier Alley Wulaia Bay

South Atlantic Ocean

Punta Arenas 1

Ushuaia Cape Horn

4-night Stella Australis cruise

La Paz, Bolivia Annelieke Huijgens



2016 Patagonia Australis Cruise

Day 13. Santiago This morning we visit historic and modern Santiago as well as a lookout for an amazing view over the city. [B,D] Day 14. Santiago - Punta Arenas We head south today to Punta Arenas, the embarkation point for our cruise. [B] Day 15. Punta Arenas Embark Cruise: After a cocktail reception hosted by the Captain and his crew, the ship will depart for one of the remotest parts of the planet to explore its breathtaking wilderness. [B,D] Day 16. Ainsworth Bay - Tuckers Islets


2017

13-Feb 07-Mar $15,695

07-Jan 30-Jan $17,395

05-Mar 28-Mar $14,995

11-Feb

06-Mar $16,195

10-Sep 03-Oct $14,795

25-Feb 20-Mar $16,195

29-Oct 21-Nov $15,995

18-Mar 10-Apr $14,995

26-Nov 19-Dec $16,995 price valid from: Sydney other departure cities: Clients from Melbourne & Brisbane add $100pp, from Adelaide add $300, and from Perth add $500. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details. single supplement: From $6,250

Day 19. Ushuaia - Buenos Aires Disembark Cruise: After disembarking this morning, we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Buenos Aires, the ‘Paris of the South’! [B] Day 20. Buenos Aires We spend the morning exploring Buenos Aires, including the Plaza de Mayo, Recoleta Cemetery and Caminito Street in the colourful La Boca District. [B] Day 21. Buenos Aires Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the grand city of Buenos Aires. Tonight we learn to tango, before watching the professionals perform in a vibrant dinner-show experience. [B,D] Day 22. Depart Buenos Aires We begin our journey home. [B]

Inclusions travel: • Return economy-class flights from Australia to South America. Taxes included. • 4 internal flights within South America • All airport transfers on the first and last day of tour • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles

transportation:


Coach, plane, train, hydrofoil & cruise ship

Please note all meals and an open bar are included daily while cruising on board the ship. The cruise itinerary may change due to local conditions.

• 1 night stay in a nature retreat in Aguas Calientes

Day 17. Pia Glacier - Glacier Alley Day 18. Cape Horn - Wulaia Bay


The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,170. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change. All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Tour details correct at time of printing but are subject to change, see our website for details. Cabins are based on category AA for Feb & Mar 2016, and category A for all other departures. For full terms and conditions please see pages 42 to 43.

Day 23. In Transit Day 24. Arrive in Australia

accommodation & meals: • 16 nights in good quality hotels (3½4½ star)

• 4-night cruise on board the Stella Australis • 21 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 8 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners


port taxes & tips: • Port taxes of AUD $40pp (subject to change) • Total cost includes - Tipping Made Easy amount of $200pp. On board the cruise tipping is to be paid locally.

46

Small Group Touring Mexico, Guatemala & the Panama Canal

Tikal, Guatemala Matt Baldock

MEXICO, GUATEMALA & THE PANAMA CANAL

days:

New Tour

30

from

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

13,295pp

$

20


cruising with

Immerse yourself in the ancient civilisation of the Mayans as you explore the pyramids of Teotihuacan and the ruins of the great city of Tikal. Travel through unspoiled landscapes, admire the colonial architecture of bustling cities, then board your cruise ship which takes you through the man-made wonder of the Panama Canal.

Highlights • Tour bustling Mexico City • Discover the archaeological site of Teotihuacan • Visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe • Explore the colonial city of Antigua • Travel to one of the most important Mayan sites in Guatemala - Tikal • Visit the great pyramid of Kulkulkan at Chichén Itzá • Cruise the Panama Canal and spectacular ports of Central America

Land & Cruise Itinerary Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Mexico City Welcome to Mexico! On arrival, we will be met and transferred to our hotel. Day 2. Mexico City Our sightseeing today includes a visit to Zocalo, the main square, which is constructed out of the stones of ancient palaces and temples, and the National Palace. The afternoon is at leisure, before tonight’s group welcome dinner. [B,D] Day 3. Mexico City Special Experience: We visit the archaeological site of Teotihuacan, which roughly translates as ‘Birthplace of the Gods’. This site is known for its pyramid structures, well-preserved murals and the impressive Temples of the Sun and Moon. Our sightseeing also includes the Church of our Lady of Guadalupe, an important Christian pilgrimage site since the 16th century. [B,L] Day 4. Mexico City - Guatemala City - Antigua We leave Mexico today for Guatemala, where we head to Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture, as well as a number of spectacular colonial churches. [B,D] Day 5. Antigua We’ll explore Antigua on foot, including the Ciudad Vieja area and Cerro de La Cruz - the Hill of the Cross. We’ll see many beautiful colonial buildings including the cathedral and the Municipal Government building. [B]

Day 6. Antigua Enjoy a day at leisure. [B] Day 7. Antigua - Guatemala City - Flores Today we fly on to Flores, a small town located on an island on Peten Itza Lake and the gateway to the ancient site of Tikal. [B] Day 8. Tikal Special Experience: We travel to the ruins of the great Mayan city of Tikal, which lies amidst lush rainforest. The largest of Mayan cities during the Classic period 1,000 years ago, it represents one of the most impressive achievements of the Mayan civilisation. [B] Day 9. Flores - Cancun - Playa Del Carmen We fly back to Mexico where we travel from Cancun to the beachside region of Playa del Carmen. [B] Day 10. Chichén Itzá An amazing day visiting Chichén Itzá, the most famous Mayan site and home to the enormous pyramid of Kulkulkan. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, it is named after the feathered serpent god of the ancient Mayans. [B] Day 11. Playa Del Carmen Enjoy a day at leisure to rest or explore the beaches of Playa del Carmen before tonight’s group dinner. [B,D] Day 12. Playa Del Carmen - Miami Today we fly to the US state of Florida. [B]

Small Group Touring Mexico, Guatemala & the Panama Canal

47

Zocalo, Mexico City Marion Bunnik

San Diego

UNITED STATES

Atlantic Ocean

Miami

Gulf of Mexico

1

MEXICO

Cabo San Lucas Puerto Vallarta

Mexico City 3

Pacific Ocean

Chichén Itzá 3 Playa del Carmen Tikal Flores 3 Antigua

Caribbean Sea

2

15-night cruise on board Celebrity Infinity®

Puerto Quetzal

Cartagena

Puntarenas

Colon Panama Canal


Finish

Total cost per person

26-Nov

$13,295

$14,195

• All internal flights between Mexico, Guatemala and USA

$13,495

$14,395


price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane other departure cities: Clients from Adelaide add $275 and from Perth add $400. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details. Colourful sombrero Marion Bunnik

Day 13. Miami/Fort Lauderdale Embark Cruise: We board our 15-night Celebrity cruise. (Note: Depending on the departure date, we board either in Miami or Fort Lauderdale). [B,D] Day 14. Cruising at sea Day 15. Cruising at sea Day 16. Cartagena, Colombia Day 17. Colon, Panama Day 18. Panama Canal Day 19. Cruising at sea Day 20. Puntarenas, Costa Rica Day 21. Cruising at sea Day 22. Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala Day 23. Cruising at sea Day 24. Cruising at sea Day 25. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Day 26. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

• Return economy-class flights between Australia, Mexico and USA. Taxes included.

Veranda

2017 21-Mar** 19-Apr

travel:

Ocean-view

2016 28-Oct*

Inclusions

single supplement: Ocean-view Stateroom from $6,250 Veranda Stateroom from $7,995 day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary depending on your city of departure. *The 28 October 2016 departure gets you in to Antigua for the Day of the Dead and the Kite Festival. **The 21 March 2017 departure visits the colourful and vibrant market of Chichicastenango - the best in Central America! Please note all meals are included daily while cruising on board the ship. The cruise itinerary may change due to local conditions. The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,075. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.

• All touring in air-conditioned vehicles • Celebrity cruise

transportation: Coach, plane & cruise ship

accommodation & meals: • 12 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star) • 15-nights on board Celebrity Infinity ® • 27 breakfasts, 15 lunches and 18 dinners, including group welcome dinner

tour guides: • English-speaking locally based tour guides (excl. cruise)

port taxes & tips: • Port taxes of AUD $400pp (subject to change) • Total tipping cost - $120pp for land arrangements and $205pp on board the Celebrity Cruise


Day 27. Cruising at sea Day 28. San Diego, USA Disembark Cruise: Leaving your cruise ship in San Diego you’ll transfer to the airport to begin your journey home. [B] Day 29. In Transit Day 30. Arrive in Australia


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48

Small Group Touring Mexico, Cuba & The Panama Canal

Trinidad, Cuba Donald Barbour

MEXICO, CUBA & THE PANAMA CANAL

days:

31

from

13,695pp

$


MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE

20 cruising with

This mind-blowing tour combines the best sights and sounds of Mexico and Cuba, with the luxury of a Celebrity Cruise. Relax as you sail on the Pacific Ocean, passing through the Panama Canal to reach the Caribbean Sea, enjoying many fabulous port stops along the way.

Day 1. Depart Australia - Arrive in Mexico City Welcome to Mexico! On arrival, we will be met and transferred to our hotel.

Highlights

Day 3. Mexico City Special Experience: We visit the archaeological site of Teotihuacan, which roughly translates as ‘Birthplace of the Gods’. This site is known for its pyramid structures, well-preserved murals and the impressive Temples of the Sun and Moon. Our sightseeing also includes the Church of our Lady of Guadalupe, an important Christian pilgrimage site since the 16th century. [B,L]

• Discover the archaeological site of Teotihuacan • Visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe • Explore the spectacular El Nicho Falls • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Trinidad • Ride in classic cars along Havana’s beautiful esplanade • Cruise the Caribbean ports of Central America in luxury

Land & Cruise Itinerary

Day 2. Mexico City Our sightseeing today includes a visit to Zocalo, the main square, which is constructed out of the stones of ancient palaces and temples, and the National Palace. [B,D]

Day 4. Mexico City - Havana We fly to Havana, Cuba’s vibrant capital city. This evening we enjoy a group dinner welcoming us to Cuba. [B,D] Day 5. Havana - Las Terrazas As we travel through the beautiful region of Pinar del Rio we stop to visit a tobacco field and drying house. Then we continue to the small village of Vinales where we walk around the colourful Mural de la Prehistoria - it’s one of the world’s biggest outdoor paintings. [B,L] Day 6. Las Terrazas This afternoon we travel through the Sierra del

Rosario Mountains, and visit a 19th century coffee plantation. [B,L] Day 7. Las Terrazas - Cienfuegos We continue to the busy port of Cienfuegos, the ‘Pearl of the South’. After lunch, we visit the impressive Teatro Tomás Terry and the historic town centre. [B,L] Special Experience: We relax on board a sunset catamaran cruise in the Bay of Cienfuegos. Day 8. Cienfuegos - Trinidad Our touring today includes El Nicho National Park, home to Cuba’s most spectacular waterfalls, as we make our way to Trinidad. [B,L] Day 9. Trinidad This morning we explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed colonial city of Trinidad. This perfectly preserved Spanish colonial settlement is one of Cuba’s most enchanting cities. Our sightseeing includes the Plaza Mayor and Museo Romantico. [B,L] Day 10. Trinidad - Havana We return to Havana, stopping on the way at the Che Guevara Mausoleum, in the bustling city of Santa Clara. [B,L] Day 11. Havana We explore the artistic areas of Jaimanitas, Casa Fuster and Callejon de Hamel, and the modern neighbourhood of Vedado-riding in classic cars! Then a change of pace as we take a horse-drawn carriage ride to our hotel. [B]

Small Group Touring Mexico, Cuba & The Panama Canal

49

Los Angeles 1

San Diego

UNITED STATES Atlantic Ocean

Ft. Lauderdale Gulf of Mexico

Havana (1,3)

MEXICO

Cabo San Lucas

Las Terrazas

Puerto Vallarta 3 Pacific Ocean

Mexico City

15-night cruise on board Celebrity Infinity®

2

4

1 2 Trinidad Cienfuegos

Caribbean Sea

Puerto Quetzal

Cartagena

Puntarenas

Panama Canal Colon

Mexico City Marion Bunnik

Panama Canal Celebrity Cruises


Finish

Total cost per person

11-Dec

$13,695

$14,495

• All internal flights between Australia, Mexico, Cuba and USA

04-May

$13,995

$14,695


price valid from: Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane

Day 12. Havana Enjoy a day at leisure to explore this lively city, before we regroup for dinner at a local restaurant. [B,D] Day 13. Havana - Los Angeles We fly to Los Angeles, via Mexico City. [B] Day 14. Los Angeles - San Diego Embark Cruise: This morning we travel down the coast to embark our Celebrity cruise ship in San Diego - our home for the next 15 nights. [B,D] Day 15. Cruising at sea Day 16. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Day 17. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Day 18. Cruising at sea Day 19. Cruising at sea Day 20. Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala Day 21. Cruising at sea Day 22. Puntarenas, Costa Rica Day 23. Cruising at sea Day 24. Panama Canal, Panama Day 25. Colon, Panama / At sea*

• Return economy-class flights between Australia, Mexico and USA. Taxes included.

Veranda

2017 04-Apr

travel:

Ocean-view

2016 11-Nov

Inclusions

other departure cities: Clients from Adelaide add $275 and from Perth add $400. This will be at your expense. Please contact us for details. single supplement: Ocean-view Stateroom from $6,100 Veranda Stateroom from $7,900 day & date variations: Due to airline flight schedules day of arrival & day of departure may vary, depending on your city of departure.

• All touring in air-conditioned vehicles • Celebrity cruise

transportation: Coach, plane, boat, steam train, classic car, horse-drawn carriage & cruise ship

accommodation & meals: • 11 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star) • 2 nights in Casa Particulars in Trinidad • 15-night on board Celebrity Infinity ® • 28 breakfasts, 21 lunches and 18 dinners, including group welcome dinner

*Days 25 & 26 vary with departure date. 11-Nov-16: Colon, Panama & Cartagena, Colombia. 04-Apr-17: At sea & Willemstad, Curacao

tour guides:

Please note all meals are included daily while cruising on board the ship. The cruise itinerary may change due to local conditions.

• English-speaking locally based tour directors in Mexico & Cuba and local guides (excl. cruise)

The prices above include air taxes and fuel surcharges of $1,260. This amount is correct at time of printing but subject to change.

port taxes & tips:


• Port taxes of AUD $395pp (subject to change) • Total tipping cost - $95pp for land arrangements and $205pp on board the Celebrity Cruise

Day 26. Cartagena, Colombia / Willemstad, Curacoa* Day 27. Cruising at sea Day 28. Cruising at sea Day 29. Fort Lauderdale, Florida Disembark Cruise: Today marks the end of our Mexico, Cuba & the Panama Canal tour. We trust that you will leave with wonderful memories of your adventure! [B] Day 30. In Transit Day 31. Arrive in Australia



Like to see even more of South or Central America?

Tour Extensions

51

TOUR EXTENSIONS If you have the luxury of time, our tour extensions and independent tours are a great way to see even more of Central & South America. Ranging from 3 to 15 days, we can make seamless arrangements to add these short tours to the beginning or end of your holiday, to help you make the best of your time overseas.

See the best of exotic Ecuador by rail, travelling on a historic steam train. For more information see pg 54.

Explore intriguing Easter Island, famous for its ancient Moais statues. For more information see pg 55.

Cruise the snaking tributaries of the incredible Amazon River. For more information see pg 58.

See one of the most spectacular and remote places on earth on an Antarctic cruise. For more information see pg 59.

Hike the trails of El Chaltén, overlooking the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares in Argentina. For more information see pg 61.

These are just a few of the many options available to add an extra dimension to your South & Central America adventure. Inclusions vary between tours, but generally cover extensive sightseeing with an English-speaking local guide, your accommodation and transport, airport transfers (where applicable) and many meals. We’ve featured several of our great value extensions and independent tours in this brochure. For more options take a look at our website or have a chat with your travel agent or Bunnik Tours consultant.

52

Tour Extension Galapagos Islands

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS EXTENSIONS Pinta

Genovesa

Marchena

Why not extend your trip to South America with a visit to the incredible Galapagos Islands? Located 1,000 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador, the archipelago consists of 13 major islands, only 5 of which are inhabited. It’s one of the world’s best destinations for wildlife viewing, with an amazing diversity of animals, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. Blessed with pleasant weather all year round, anytime is perfect to visit these remarkable volcanic islands with their fragile yet accessible ecosystems. Your hardest decision will be whether to stay at one of the resorts and enjoy day trips, or to choose one of the many cruise options.

Santiago Bartolomé North Seymour

Rábida

Fernandina

Pinzón

South Seymour

Santa Cruz

Isabela

Santa Fe

San Cristóbal Floreana Española

“Too many highlights to pick easily but the Galapagos Islands and Peru would be right up there." - Amanda Circosta (Highlights of South America & the Galapagos - July 2015) Galapagos Islands

Sea lion

Sally Lightfoot crab

Galapagos tortoise

Tour Extension Galapagos Islands

53

THE RESORTS Explore by day, relax at night! Base yourself on the Galapagos’ main islands and explore the fascinating and unique ecosystem of the archipelago with a series of day trips. These packages include your accommodation, sightseeing and many meals. (Airfares to the Galapagos Islands are not included).

FINCH BAY ECO RESORT days:

4

GALAPAGOS HOTEL STAY

from

days:

*

3,272 pp

$

5

Galapagos Islands: Santa Cruz

from

2,421pp

$

Galapagos Islands: Santa Cruz & San Cristóbal

Departs on Wednesdays only. *Garden View Room

The award-winning Galapagos Finch Bay Eco Hotel is located on the island of Santa Cruz, and is the only beachfront hotel in Puerto Ayora. Your 4-day / 3-night package includes a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, a guided visit to the Santa Cruz Highlands, and 3 days of excursions aboard the resort’s own private yacht. You’ll visit the surrounding islands to discover the incredible flora and fauna that is only found in this amazing archipelago. Your package also includes airport transfers and all meals.

This 5-day / 4-night package includes 3 nights on the island of Santa Cruz Island and 1 night on the island of San Cristóbal. Your sightseeing includes lunch amongst the tortoises of Santa Cruz and time at leisure in the pretty town of Puerto Ayora. Enjoy a full-day excursion to one of the surrounding islands and a tour to Isla Lobos. After your busy days spent exploring the archipelago, your accommodation will provide you with the perfect place to relax and unwind.

THE BOATS A cruise around the Galapagos Islands is a wonderful addition to your South American tour. All of the motor yachts detailed here have a bilingual guide as part of their crew. All vessels have comfortable cabins with hot water and are equipped with a private shower, toilet, washbasin and vanity.

FRAGATA days:

5

from

3,959pp

$

CORAL I & II days:

5

from

4,256pp

$

LEGEND I days:

5

from

4,256pp

$

This tour departs on Fridays only.

This tour departs on Wednesdays only.

This tour departs on Thursdays only.

The Fragata offers a relaxed yet intimate atmosphere with a crew of 7 and can accommodate up to 16 passengers. Features include a well-equipped dining room, bar, saloon, small library, sundeck, TV, full air-conditioning and a diving platform.

The Coral I & II is a blend of comfort and style. Incorporating teakwood and modern decor and with a crew of 10, it offers the perfect combination for an intimate cruising experience. All cabins are fully airconditioned with private facilities and can accommodate up to 36 passengers.

The Legend I is a luxury-class ship accommodating up to 100 passengers. Featuring broad observation decks, outside dining and an outdoor swimming pool, this is Galapagos cruising at its best.

Any of the tour extensions above can be added to any of our South American small group tours or cruise & tours, ask for details. Please note: We have various other cruising options available. Above prices do not include airfares to the Galapagos Islands (approximately AUD $869pp). The Galapagos Islands National Park entrance fee (US$100pp) and Migration Card (US$10pp) both need to be paid in cash locally. Prices are per person based on twin-share. Seasonal surcharge may apply over peak travel periods, holiday seasons and special events. Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For further details go to our website or contact our office.

54

Tour Extension Best of Ecuador by Rail | Nazca Lines & Ballestas Islands

Otavalo 1 ECUADOR

Quito 2

4 days on board Tren Crucero

Guayaquil

1 Papallacta 1 Cotopaxi

1 Riobamba 1

1

BEST OF ECUADOR BY RAIL days:

9

Bucay

Duran

from

4,482pp

$

Country visited: Ecuador

Inclusions travel • 4 days on board the ‘Tren Crucero’ historic steam train • Private transfers between the airport and hotel • All ground transportation in air-conditioned vehicles • All sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary

accommodation & meals • 8 nights in a combination of boutique hotels and luxury historic haciendas (3-4 star) • 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners

Prices are per person based on twin-share. Single supplement on request. Seasonal surcharges apply. Sightseeing tours include bilingual guides. Please contact us for details.

Lima Ballestas Islands

PERU 2 Paracas

This tour departs on Saturdays only. Itinerary can operate in reverse. This tour extension can be added to any of our South American small group tours or cruise & tours, ask for details. Train Tren Crucero

Itinerary Day 1. Arrive Guayaquil You are met and transferred to your hotel. Day 2. Guayaquil - Duran Bucay Board the ‘Tren Crucero’ today, a restored steam train, for a stunning 4-day journey on Ecuador’s railway in the sky! [B,L,D] Day 3. Bucay - Riobamba Visit Devil’s Nose where the train zigzags as it climbs 535 metres. [B,L,D]

Day 7. Quito - Otavalo Today you travel to Otavalo and stop at the ‘Middle of the World’ where the equator passes through Ecuador. [B]

Day 5. Cotopaxi - Quito Travel to Cotopaxi NP, home to Limpiopungo glacial lake and the snowcapped Cotopaxi volcano. After exploring the hacienda you continue to Quito. [B,L]

Day 8. Otavalo - Papallacta Visit Otavalo’s lively Indian markets before a scenic drive to Papallacta, known for its volcanoes and rejuvenating hot springs. [B]

Day 6. Quito Explore the lively city of Quito, including the beautiful Church la Compania and San Francisco Monastery. [B]

Day 9. Papallacta - Quito Relax as you enjoy a soak in the hot springs just outside your room before transferring to the airport for your onward flight. [B]

NAZCA LINES & BALLESTAS ISLANDS days:

Nazca Lines

Day 4. Riobamba - Cotopaxi Today you visit the country’s highest train station at Urbina, then head to Cunchibamba to see the famous Ecuadorian roses. [B,L,D]

3

from

1,516pp

$

Country visited: Peru

Inclusions

This tour extension can be added to any of our South American small group tours or cruise & tours, ask for details.

travel • Return regular bus ticket (Lima-Paracas-Lima) • Transportation in airconditioned vehicles • Sightseeing based on shared vehicles • Flight over the amazing Nazca Lines on 12-seater aircraft • Visit to the Paracas National Reserve & tour of the Ballestas Islands • National Park entrance fee

accommodation & meals • 2 nights at La Hacienda (4star), including breakfast daily


Nazca Lines, Peru

Itinerary Day 1. Lima - Paracas This morning you will be met and transferred to the bus station for your journey to Paracas. This small port town on the southern coast of Peru is the gateway to the Ballestas Islands. Day 2. Nazca Lines A truly amazing day! It begins this morning with a transfer to Pisco Airport where you will board a 12-seater plane and fly over the incredible Nazca Lines

- drawings made in the sand some 2,000 years ago. You will see gigantic geometrical lines resembling a landing field and more than 32 figures including a monkey, spider and condor, to name just a few! The view from the plane is simply breathtaking. After your flight you travel to the beautiful Paracas National Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can enjoy the picturesque surroundings before returning to Paracas. [B]

Day 3. Paracas - Ballestas Islands - Lima After breakfast, enjoy an early morning cruise to the Ballestas Islands. Here you will see an abundance of wildlife including sea lions, penguins and more than 60 species of colourful sea birds. Along the way you will also see the ‘Candelabra’, a huge sand design on the hilly coast only seen from the sea or sky. Later you transfer to the bus station for your return journey to Lima. [B]

Tour Extension Easter Island | Copper Canyon by Rail

EASTER ISLAND days:

4

EASTER ISLAND

965pp

Rano Raraku

Hanga Roa Rano Kau

Country visited: Chile This tour extension can be added to any of our South American small group tours or cruise & tours, ask for details.

Anu Tongariki

Anu Akivi

from

$

55

Inclusions travel

Rano Raraku, Easter Island

Itinerary Day 1. Easter Island Welcome to Easter Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its monumental statues called moai. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Day 2. Easter Island Today you visit the south coast to see unrestored ahu, or stone platforms, before heading to Rano Raraku, a quarry of almost 900 stone statues. Later, visit Ahu Tongariki, the site of

the most recent and biggest restoration on the island, before heading to the east coast to see Ahu Te Pito Kura and the ‘Navel of the World’. Then, on to Anakena overlooking the Pacific Ocean. [B,L] Day 3. Easter Island Travel to the extinct volcano, Rano Kau, where you can appreciate the view over the whole island and see its distinct geological features. Later, drive to the ceremonial village of Orongo, where the birdman competition took place. Next,

you head down to explore Ahu Vinapu and the Ana Kai Tangata cave. [B] Day 4. Easter Island This morning you drive to the restored Ahu Akivi, with 7 moais, in the middle of the island, before heading to the Ana Te Pahu Cave, one of the biggest lava tubes on the island. Later you transfer to the airport for your onward journey. [B]

• Private transfers between the airport and hotel • Sightseeing based on shared vehicles • Easter Island National Park entrance fee

accommodation & meals • 3 nights in a good quality hotel (3-star) • 3 breakfasts and 1 lunch


COPPER CANYON BY RAIL days:

5

Chihuahua Creel 1

from

1,190pp

$

1

1

MEXICO

Posada Barrancas 1 Los Mochis

Country visited: Mexico Itinerary can operate in reverse. This tour extension can be added to any of our Central American small group tours or cruise & tours, ask for details. Copper Canyon, Mexico

Itinerary Day 1. Los Mochis On arrival at Los Mochis Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Day 2. Los Mochis - Posada Barrancas This morning, head to the train station where you board the Ferromex Chepe train to Posada Barrancas, enjoying spectacular views of the Sierra Madre. With the best outlooks of the “Three Canyons” area, Posada Barrancas offers a pristine

travel • Return private transfers between the airport and hotel • 1st class Ferromex Chepe train tickets

mountain wilderness in an area that is four times larger than the Grand Canyon. [B,L,D]

and a Tarahumara cave. In the afternoon you travel back on the train to Chihuahua. [B]

Day 3. Posada Barrancas Divisadero - Creel This morning enjoy some free time before reboarding your train and continuing to Creel, the highest point on the Chepe railroad. Here you get some magnificent views of the green and copper canyons. [B]

Day 5. Chihuahua Enjoy a morning at leisure to relax before your transfer to the airport for your onward journey. [B]

Day 4. Creel - Chihuahua Today you tour Creel and visit the ecological park of Arareco including the lake

Inclusions

• All ground transportation in air-conditioned vehicles • All sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary

accommodation & meals • 4 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star) • 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner


56

Tour Extension Bolivian Salt Flats | Atacama Desert

BOLIVIA Tahua 1 CHILE

1 Uyuni

BOLIVIAN SALT FLATS days:

6

Ojo de Perdiz 1 Calama 2

from

3,827pp

$

Countries visited: Bolivia & Chile

San Pedro de Atacama

Inclusions travel

Extend your time by combining this with our incredible Atacama Desert package below. This tour extension can be added to any of our South American small group tours or cruise & tours, ask for details.

• Return airport transfers in a private vehicle • All touring in either private 4WD Land Cruisers or sedanstyle vehicles

accommodation & meals • 3 nights in a good quality hotel (3-4 star) • 2 nights in unique salt hotels (yes really!) • 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners


CHILE

Tatio Geysers

Calama San Pedro de Atacama

4

Toconao

Salt Lakes, Uyuni

Itinerary Day 1. Arrive in Uyuni Upon arrival in Uyuni, you are met and transferred to your hotel. You visit the train cemetery and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. [L,D] Day 2. Uyuni - Tahua Today the adventure includes a visit to Incahuasi Island, the salt pyramids, and Colchani, a tiny one-street town situated on the edge of the Thunupa Salt Flat. Later you visit the Coquesa Mummies at the feet of the

Thunupa volcano, which have been preserved due to the high altitude and low humidity of this area. [B,L,D] Day 3. Tahua - Ojo de Perdiz You continue through the desert today, stopping to enjoy many of the different saltwater lagoons. Look out for the flamingoes that are abundant here. [B,L,D] Day 4. Ojo de Perdiz - San Pedro de Atacama Enjoy a 4WD jeep ride, experiencing an array of diverse scenery including the Siloli

Desert, the Laguna Colorada, the water springs of Polque and the geysers of Sol de Manana where there is a chance to take a dip in the steam pools. Later you’ll visit the Green Lagoon and the Desert Ladies Valley. [B,L,D] Day 5. San Pedro de Atacama Enjoy a day at leisure in San Pedro de Atacama. [B] Day 6. Depart San Pedro de Atacama - Calama Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. [B]

ATACAMA DESERT days:

5

from

1,697pp

$

Country visited: Chile

Inclusions travel • Return private transfers from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles • Sightseeing based on shared vehicles

accommodation & meals • 4 nights in a good quality hotel (3-4 star) in San Pedro de Atacama • 4 breakfasts


Extend your time by combining this with our incredible Bolivian Salt Flats package above. This tour extension can be added to any of our South American small group tours or cruise & tours, ask for details. Atacama Desert

Itinerary Day 1. Calama - San Pedro de Atacama Welcome to Calama, the gateway to the geological and archaeological wonders of Chile’s high central desert. Upon arrival you are met and transferred by vehicle to San Pedro de Atacama, a town and commune located in the El Lao province. Day 2. Toconao Salt Flat Today you tour Tocanao village, most notable for its church which dates from 1750. You next

visit Salar de Atacama; at 3,000 square kilometres it’s the largest salt flat in Chile. It’s also the third-largest in the world. [B] Day 3. Moon & Death Valley Today you will leave San Pedro de Atacama and head towards Death Valley, an amazing spectacle of land formation, hills and minerals. Later you continue to the Moon Valley, one of the most spectacular phenomena in the Atacama Desert. Here you explore the silent moonscape and strange figures that nature has formed. [B]

Day 4. Tatio Geysers An early start today as you travel to the Tatio Geyser field. The best time to visit the field is at sunrise when each geyser is engulfed by a column of steam that condenses in the bitterly cold morning air. After returning to San Pedro de Atacama, you can enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. [B] Day 5. San Pedro de Atacama - Calama Today you head back to Calama for your onward flight. [B]

Independent Touring Icons of Peru

Iquitos

57

3 Amazon

Jungle

PERU

Machu Picchu

Lima (2,1) 3 Ballestas Islands

1

1

Sacred Valley 2 Cusco

(1,1)

1

Paracas Juliaca

Nazca Lines

Puno 2

Lake Titicaca

Canopy walk in the Sucusari Reserve

Machu Picchu, Peru John Pfitzner

days:

from

15 $7,858pp Peru will excite your senses at every turn with its colourful culture, amazing sites and rich history. Visit incredible Machu Picchu, perched high in the Andes, be mesmerised by the Sacred Valley and colourful Cusco, and take a flight over the stunning Nazca Lines.

ICONS OF PERU Designed for the Independent Traveller, this tour can be combined with any of our other tour extensions.

Itinerary Day 1. Lima Welcome to Peru! Upon arrival in Lima you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Day 2. Lima This morning tour the famous sights of Lima including the Plaza de Mayor, the Cathedral, Torre Tagle Palace and Larco Museum. [B] Day 3. Lima - Nazca Lines A truly amazing day as you travel to Paracas to board your flight for an aerial view over the incredible Nazca Lines. [B] Day 4. Nazca Lines - Lima Enjoy a cruise of the Ballestas Islands where you will see an abundance of wildlife. [B]

Highlights • See the amazing Nazca Lines by air • Explore the Amazon and its wildlife • Visit the ruins of Sacsayhuaman • See the Sacred Valley of the Incas • Explore the Incan fortress of Ollantaytambo • A once-in-a-lifetime visit to the spectacular Incan city, Machu Picchu • Explore Lake Titicaca & Uros Islands

Day 5. Lima - Iquitos Amazon Jungle This morning fly to Iquitos, gateway to the mighty Amazon Jungle! On arrival take a short boat ride to your jungle lodge, home for the next three nights. [B,L,D] Day 6. Amazon Jungle An exciting day as we enjoy a canopy walk in the Sucusari Reserve, one of the longest treetop walkways in the world. [B,L,D] Day 7. Amazon Jungle Today you visit the local Yugua Indian Village to learn about their culture and traditions. Later we visit Neiser’s Reserve, home to many free-roaming monkeys. [B,L,D]

Day 8. Amazon Jungle - Cusco Fly to Cusco via Lima. [B] Day 9. Cusco This morning visit the 17th century Temple of the Sun and the Cathedral. Later, visit the nearby Sacsayhuaman ruins. [B] Day 10. Cusco - Sacred Valley On the way to the Sacred Valley you enjoy visits to the famous Pisac ruins, a lively market and Ollantaytambo, home to a remarkable Incan fortress. [B] Day 11. Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu A magical day as you take a special Vistadome train through the Sacred Valley to the aweinspiring ruins of Machu Picchu. [B,D] Day 12. Machu Picchu - Cusco Enjoy a morning at leisure, or take an optional second visit to Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco. [B] Day 13. Cusco - Puno Enjoy Peru’s scenic landscapes today as you journey by regular bus to Puno. [B,L] Day 14. Puno Today visit an Indian community on Uros Islands in Lake Titicaca, along with Taquile Island, famous for its handicrafts. [B,L] Day 15. Puno Transfer to Juliaca airport for your onward flight. [B]

Inclusions travel: • 3 internal flights within Peru • Private airport transfers • Return regular bus ticket (Lima - Paracas - Lima) • Flight over the amazing Nazca Lines on 12-seater aircraft • Vistadome train ticket (Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu - Cusco) • Regular bus ticket (Cusco - Puno)

accommodation & meals: • 11 nights in good quality hotels and 3 nights in a jungle lodge (3-4 star) • 14 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners

Prices are per person based on twin-share. Single supplement on request. Seasonal surcharges apply. Please contact our office for details.

Tour Extension Amazon Cruise

58

er Riv

PERU

on az Am

Am az on

Ri ve r

Iquitos Nauta

Rive r

Uc ay ali

National Reserve

ay Uc

Yanayacu

Yarapa

River on ran Ma Samiria

ali

River

Puerto Pedro Village

Yanallpa

Magdalena Village

Aria Amazon cruise Aqua Expeditions

Design suite

days:

4

from

5,623pp

$

Cruise in style on board the stunning 16-cabin Aria Amazon for an amazing 4-day journey along the Amazon’s snaking tributaries, in search of red-bellied piranhas, rare pink dolphins and colourful birdlife. With incredible floorto-ceiling windows you’ll enjoy spectacular views throughout this incredible voyage.

AMAZON CRUISE This cruise is also available as a 5- or 8-day package, please ask for details.

Itinerary Day 1. Embark Iquitos Welcome to Iquitos, where you will be met and transferred to the Aria Amazon in Nauta, your home for the next three nights. Over the next three days, the Aria Amazon sails along the largest tributaries of the Amazon River, as well as on the mighty Amazon itself. You’ll discover some of the remotest destinations, visited by only a few of even the world’s most experienced travellers. [D] Day 2. Amazon - Yanayacu Yacapana - Yarapa This morning enjoy sunrise over the river and catch your first glimpse of the Amazon. After breakfast, you’ll sail in a small boat to the Yacapana Isles. Locals call these the “Isles of the Iguana” thanks to the tiny dinosaur-like reptiles which inhabit them. Later enjoy a further cruise where you go in search of gray and pink freshwater dolphins. Once found, these beautiful creatures will often swim and play around the boats. [B,L,D] Day 3. Yanallpa - Magdalena Village - Pacaya - Samiria National Reserve Walk through the jungle to visit the village of Madgalena, a small community of just 10 families. Later see the world’s largest

Outside deck

aquatic plant - giant water lilies, also known as Victoria Regias. As the sun sets, watch for vibrant birdlife, dolphins and especially the caimans, all native to this region. [B,L,D] Day 4. Puerto Prado Village Disembark Iquitos Today you visit the birthplace of the Amazon! The landscape here is especially dramatic, as it is where the Ucayali and the Marañon Rivers converge to form the Amazon. As you glide past the riverbanks you’ll see large-billed terns, laughing falcons and countless other colourful birds. Then visit the Cocama Indians who share their culture, traditions and folklore with you, before transferring to the airport. [B]

Inclusions travel: • Return coach transfers from Iquitos Airport to Nauta Wharf (flights to Iquitos not included) • All shore excursions offered by the Aria Amazon • English-speaking naturalist guides on board • Port taxes

accommodation & meals: • 3 nights on board the luxurious Aria Amazon cruise ship on a fullboard basis including an open bar (nonalcoholic, house wine & beers) • Twin-share cabin on the 1st Deck with private facilities and air conditioning • 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners

Amazon monkey

Prices are per person based on twin-share. Single supplement on request. Seasonal surcharges apply. Please contact our office for details.

Tour Extension Antarctica - Classic Cruise | Stella Australis Cruise

ANTARCTICA - CLASSIC CRUISE days:

Pacific Ocean

CHILE

Punta 2 Arenas 5-night Ocean Nova Cruise Frei Station King George Island

from

8 $19,866pp Countries visited: Chile & Antarctica Operates from mid January to mid February. Other itineraries available on our website. Add this tour extension to any of our South American small group or cruise & tours.

Cruising on the Ocean Nova

Itinerary Day 1. Arrive Punta Arenas Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, where you are welcomed by ANTARCTICA XXI staff and transferred to your hotel. Later, gather for a welcome dinner and meet your fellow adventurers. [D] Day 2. Depart Punta Arenas Cruising Your Antarctic adventure begins with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. Explore the area surrounding

Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen station, before boarding a Zodiac to embark your expedition vessel. [B,L,D]

include visits to sites such as Paulet Island, Paradise Bay and the Lemaire Channel, and many other magnificent places. [B,L,D]

Days 3-6. Cruising Cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of sea birds, penguins, seals and whales. Each day, disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. Your voyage may

Day 7. Cruising - Punta Arenas Return to King George Island and bid farewell to Antarctica before boarding the flight back to Punta Arenas. On arrival you will be transferred to your city hotel. [B] Day 8. Depart Punta Arenas Today you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. [B]

STELLA AUSTRALIS CRUISE days:

5

Inclusions travel • Return flights from Punta Arenas to Antarctica • All airport transfers • All shore excursions as detailed in itinerary • Lectures and onboard entertainment

accommodation & meals • 5 nights on board the Ocean Nova on a full-board basis including an open bar. Accommodation based on a twin cabin with private facilities. • 2 nights accommodation in Punta Arenas after returning from Antarctica • All meals and drinks


Punta Arenas

Tucker Islets

Pia Glacier Glacier Alley

2,880pp

Itinerary Day 1. Embark Punta Arenas Welcome on board your Australis cruise ship. The captain and crew will be on hand to greet you with a cocktail reception as the ship departs, marking the beginning of your great adventure! [D] Day 2. Ainsworth Bay - Tucker Islets This morning you arrive at Ainsworth Bay, where you can see the Marinelli Glacier and learn about life after the retreat of the ice. Then, enjoy a walk in the

incredible subpolar Magellanic Forest followed by a stroll on the beach. After lunch, board a Zodiac boat to view Magellanic penguins and cormorants on the Tucker Islets. [B,L,D] Day 3. Pia Glacier - Glacier Alley Today you cruise along the Beagle Channel to Pia Fjord. Here you can hike to a lookout point with a spectacular view of the entire glacier tongue, stretching from high in the mountains all the way to the sea. Later, you will cruise through Glacier Alley. [B,L,D]

Day 4. Cape Horn - Wulaia Bay Today you sail to the Cape Horn National Park, where you disembark (weather permitting). This UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve features an impressive, sheer 425m-high rocky headland. This afternoon you go ashore at historic Wulaia Bay, an area of great natural beauty. [B,L,D] Day 5. Disembark Ushuaia On arrival at Ushuaia you will disembark your cruise ship. [B]

ARGENTINA

Ainsworth Bay

Ushuaia Wulaia Bay

Cape Horn

Countries visited: Chile & Argentina

Cruising on the Stella Australis

Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego

CHILE

$


Atlantic Ocean

ANTARCTICA

from

Operates from late September to April. This tour departs on a Saturday.

59

Inclusions travel • Shore excursions as detailed in itinerary

accommodation & meals • 4 nights on board the Stella Australis cruise vessel on a full-board basis including an open bar. • Twin-share category ‘B’ cabins • 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners


Tour Extension Bariloche Lake Crossing | Skorpios II Cruise

60

CHILE Lake Llanquihue

Puerto Blest

Petrohue Puerto Varas 1

1

Todos Peulla Los Santos Lake

Puerto Montt

Lake Nahuel Huapi

2 Bariloche

ARGENTINA

BARILOCHE LAKE CROSSING days:

5

from

1,231pp

$

Countries visited: Argentina & Chile

Inclusions travel • All transfers and lake crossings as per itinerary • Tour of Bariloche highlights include a visit to Campanario Hill and the Llao Llao Peninsula • Cross Lake Nahuel Huapi & Todos Los Santos Lake • Cruise the beautiful Frias Lake • Sightseeing based on shared transfers & vehicles

accommodation & meals • 4 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star) • 4 breakfasts and 1 dinner

Puerto Montt Castro

Itinerary can operate in reverse. This tour extension can be added to any of our South American small group tours or cruise & tours, ask for details. Osorno volcano, Argentina

Itinerary Day 1. Bariloche Welcome to Bariloche, one of the most scenic cities in the world and Argentina’s chocolate capital. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Day 2. Bariloche Enjoy a tour of Bariloche’s surroundings, including Campanario Hill where you have the option to take the chairlift. You also travel to Llao Llao Peninsula where you visit the

Glacier San Rafael

Inclusions travel

Day 3. Bariloche - Lake Crossing - Peulla A great day travelling by catamaran across Lake Nahuel Huapi, then drive to Puerto Alegre and cruise across Frias Lake. From here you travel over the Andes before descending to Peulla on the Chilean side of the mountains. [B,D] Day 4. Peulla - Lake Crossing - Puerto Varas Today you cross Todos Los Santos Lake, offering spectacular views of Cerro Puntiagudo

and Osorno Volcano. You then travel by road to the Petrohue Falls where green crystal waters cascade over black volcanic rocks, before continuing on to Puerto Varas - one of Chile’s most charming villages on the shores of Lake Llanquihue. [B] Day 5. Puerto Varas - Puerto Montt Transfer to the Puerto Montt Airport for your onward journey. [B]

SKORPIOS II CRUISE days:

Puerto Aguirre Quitralco

rustic San Eduardo Chapel. [B]

6

from

3,446pp

$

Country visited: Chile Operates from September to April. This tour departs on a Saturday . This tour extension can be added to any of our South American small group tours or cruise & tours, ask for details.

• Shore excursions as detailed in the itinerary • Port taxes

Cruising on the Skorpios II

accommodation & meals • 5 nights on board the Skorpios II cruise vessel on a full-board basis including an open bar • Twin-share cabin on the Acropolis Deck • 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners


Itinerary Day 1. Embark Puerto Montt Embark your ship and set sail for the Llanquihue Archipelago and Ancud Gulf. [L,D] Day 2. Patagonia Today you sail through the Moraleda and Ferronave Channels, landing at Puerto Aguirre. After spending time in this fishing village, you sail through the Ferronave, Pilcomayo and Costa channels. [B,L,D]

Day 3. Patagonia This morning you sail through the San Rafael and Témpanos Channel, where you enter the lagoon and anchor near the glacier. Weather permitting, you enjoy a motorboat excursion among the multi-coloured ice floes. Later you head towards the Quitralco Fjord. [B,L,D] Day 4. Patagonia You have a chance this morning to bathe in the region’s amazing natural hot springs before taking a memorable excursion to the inner fjord (weather permitting). [B,L,D]

Day 5. Patagonia Sail through the Leucayec Channel, then cross the Corcovado Gulf, sailing along the eastern coast of Chiloé Island, where you visit the beautiful city of Castro. This evening enjoy a Captain’s farewell dinner. [B,L,D] Day 6. Disembark Puerto Montt On arrival in Puerto Montt, disembark your cruise ship. [B]

Tour Extension Trails of El Chaltén | Patagonia Adventure

TRAILS OF EL CHALTÉN days:

5

61

ARGENTINA El Chaltén

2

2 Aguas Arriba Lodge

from

2,025pp

$

El Calafate

Country visited: Argentina Good fitness level required on this tour. Extend your time by combining this with our incredible Patagonia Adventure below.

El Chaltén, Argentina

Itinerary Day 1. El Calafate - Aguas Arriba Upon arrival you are met and transferred via coach then boat to Aguas Arriba Lodge. Perched on the water’s edge, this ecofriendly lodge offers breathtaking views of the lake, mountains and glacier. [L,D] Day 2. Aguas Arriba Lodge Today is yours to enjoy this nature-lover’s paradise. Take a short trail or full-day hike, try some fly fishing or just relax in

the lodge by the fire and enjoy the stunning views. [B,L,D] Day 3. Aguas Arriba - El Chaltén This afternoon head towards El Chaltén to see Mount Fitz Roy, or “Smoking Mountain”, once thought to be a volcano with its peak constantly shrouded in cloud. The mountain stands as a spectacular sight with its sheer granite faces and snow-capped peaks. [B,L] Day 4. El Chaltén Enjoy a day exploring the trails on foot. The scenery here is


incredibly beautiful; you’ll pass stunning lagoons and go through the beech forest. You continue on to the Laguna Torre where the Glacier Grande spectacularly carves through its west side. Make sure you have your camera, as the day ends with a spectacular view of the Cerro Torre Mountains and Adela Range. [B,L] Day 5. El Chaltén - El Calafate Your incredible trip ends with a transfer to El Calafate Airport for your onward flight. [B]

PATAGONIA ADVENTURE days:

7

from

Inclusions travel • Shared vehicle transfers • Short boat ride across Lake Desierto • Full-day walking tour of El Chaltén (good fitness level required)

accommodation & meals • 2 nights at the stunning Aguas Arriba Lodge in a Classic View Room. Includes all activities such as trekking and fly fishing • 2 nights in good quality hotels • 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 2 dinners


Perito Moreno Glacier Torres del Paine NP

1,370pp

$

3 El Calafate 2 Puerto

Natales 1 Punta

Countries visited: Argentina & Chile

Arenas

Itinerary can operate in reverse. This tour extension can be added to any of our South American small group tours or cruise & tours, ask for details.

Moreno Glacier, Argentina

Itinerary Day 1. El Calafate Welcome to El Calafate, gateway to Patagonia. You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Day 2. Perito Moreno Glacier Enjoy a full-day tour exploring Los Glaciares National Park including Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. [B] Day 3. El Calafate Today is at leisure to further explore. Choose from one of the many optional activities

available such as hiking, horse riding or visiting some of the archaeological sites. [B]

mountain peaks, cascading rivers and waterfalls, glaciers and amazing mirrored lakes. [B,L]

Day 4. El Calafate - Puerto Natales Today you travel by bus across the border to Puerto Natales in Chile. It is the gateway to Torres del Paine, South America’s most scenic national park. [B]

Day 6. Puerto Natales - Punta Arenas This morning you travel by bus to Punta Arenas. With its colourful houses and beautiful landscapes, this seaside city will enchant you. [B]

Day 5. Torres Del Paine National Park Enjoy a full-day tour of the Torres del Paine National Park. The scenery here is simply stunning: snow-capped

Day 7. Punta Arenas Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. [B]

Inclusions travel • All transfers and sightseeing based on shared vehicles • Coach tickets from El Calafate Puerto Natales - Punta Arenas • Full day exploring Los Glaciares National Park, famous for the Moreno Glacier • Full day exploring Torres del Paine National Park with its stunning snow-capped mountains, glaciers and mirrored lakes

accommodation & meals • 6 nights in good quality hotels (3-4 star) • 6 breakfasts and 1 lunch Prices are per person based on twin-share. Single supplement on request. Seasonal surcharges apply. Sightseeing tours include bilingual guides. Please contact us for details.

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Small Print

SMALL PRINT Bunnik Travel Pty Ltd – Trading As Bunnik Tours. ACN 077 203 466 • ABN 38 077 203 466 • ATAS accreditation #A10484 • 45 Flinders Street, Adelaide SA 5000 Australia.

prices. Bunnik Tours will not enter into any correspondence regarding any such variation in pricing. Our current pricing can be found on our website.

These Booking Conditions constitute the entire agreement between the parties as to their subject matter, and supercede all prior agreements and understandings between the parties. By making a booking and paying your deposit you accept the following booking terms and conditions.

5. AIRLINE SCHEDULE CHANGES Bunnik Tours is not responsible for any schedule changes imposed by airlines. Whilst we will do our best to reschedule your touring and accommodation, Bunnik Tours is not responsible for any additional costs nor services missed as a result of an airline-imposed schedule change.

1. PAYMENT Please note that all tours are subject to availability and all prices are subject to change without notice until your holiday has been paid in full. 1.1. Deposit A non-refundable deposit per person to secure your Bunnik Tour required (together with a completed booking form) within 7 days of reservation is as follows: • South & Central America ............................... $1,000 pp 1.2. Final Balance Payment Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Please note that tour costings are based on using special airfares which require early payment. This payment schedule can be found on page 17. Separate deposit payments may be required for pre- and post-tour extensions. We may cancel your booking if either the deposit payment or the final payment are not paid by the relevant due date. In the event of cancellation, the cancellation conditions set out below will apply. All prices are quoted in Australian dollars and must be paid in Australian dollars. 1.3. Payment Schedule About 4-8 weeks after your booking has been confirmed we’ll need to request a progress payment in order to cover airfares, taxes and fuel surcharges. The progress payment is as follows: • South & Central America ............................... $3,000 pp This payment allows us to issue your flight tickets and ensures you don’t get hit with airline increases on fuel surcharges and taxes. 2. BOOKINGS 2.1. Late Bookings Higher deposit payments are required for late bookings - please refer to your consultant at the time of booking. A guarantee of full payment is required at the time of booking for all bookings received within 4 weeks of departure. 2.2. Bookings Sold on a Share Basis Bookings may be accepted where requested on a share room basis on the condition that the person/s requesting the share reservation agree that although every effort will be made to comply with requests regarding age, non-smoking etc... this is not always possible and we accept no responsibility for any incompatibility between persons sharing twin/triple rooms. No guarantee is given that a share room will be found. If a share room is not available at the time of final payment, either the single room alternative or the cancellation conditions set out below will apply at your option. 3. SINGLE ROOMS If by choice or circumstance a single room is required, then a single room surcharge will apply. Requested and booked single rooms at the increased cost are confirmed in good faith on the basis of the information available at the time. If by some chance whilst on tour, the single room is not available, a refund will be made for any night that the paid single room was not available. 4. FLUID PRICING Bunnik Travel operates on the basis of fluid pricing. This is the practice within the travel industry where pricing changes due to various factors including, but not limited to, changing airfares, market conditions and spot specials. We therefore reserve the right to change our prices without notice. This can mean that different passengers on the same tour may have been charged different

6. TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION Bunnik Travel is not itself a carrier or hotelier nor do we own aircraft, hotels or coaches. The flights, coach journeys, and other travel and hotel accommodation comprised in your holiday are provided by reputable carriers and hoteliers on their own conditions. It is important to note therefore that all bookings are subject to the terms and conditions and limitations imposed by the individual airlines, coach operators, hoteliers and other service providers (including but not limited to shipping, rail, car hire, and restaurant service providers) who provide services in relation to your tour. Some of these terms and conditions may permit the service provider to cancel, delay, divert or substitute services at their discretion, and may limit or exclude liability in respect of death, personal injury, delay and loss of or damage to baggage. It is your responsibility to be aware of and comply with the terms and conditions of each service provider. 7. RISK & LIABILITY Every effort is made to ensure that your holiday arrangements are satisfactory and we accept liability for, but only to the extent of, any loss or damage sustained by you as a direct result of our negligence. In any event, our aggregate liability to you is limited to the amount you have paid to us for the relevant tour. You acknowledge and agree that there are inherent risks involved in participating in the tour, including without limitation possible contact with native fauna, local residents, unforeseen events and travel in remote locations. By making a booking, you agree to accept all risks associated with the tour. We exclude, and you unconditionally release us from, all liability, including without limitation in contract and in tort, for any cause or action, including any injury, damage, loss, cost, delay, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly as a result of the inherent risks associated with the tour, or any force majeure events or other events which are beyond our control, including but not limited to war, civil disobedience, terrorism, insurrection, accident, explosion, sickness, fire, floods, severe weather, acts of God, acts of Government, alteration or cancellation of scheduled air services, accidents to or failure of machinery or equipment or industrial action. If we or our service providers are affected in any way by a force majeure event, we may at our discretion vary or cancel any itinerary or arrangement in relation to the tour as we consider necessary, without incurring any liability to you. Each service provider is responsible for the part of the tour it conducts. Service providers are not our agents or employees and are not under our direct control. We therefore do not warrant the performance of any service provider. We do not accept, and you release us from, all liability for any injury, loss, damage, costs or expenses, including without limitation any property damage or personal injury, that you may suffer which arises out of any act or omission of a service provider or operator who provides services in connection with your tour. Any claim that you may have in relation to a service provider should be raised directly with that service provider. You are responsible for any injury, loss, damage, costs or expenses arising through your own fault. You agree to indemnify us against all actions, proceedings, claims, demands, expenses and costs

(including legal costs on a full indemnity basis and whether incurred by or awarded against us) as a result of, or arising in relation to, whether directly or indirectly, your participation in the tour or any act or omission by you in relation to the tour. 8. EXCLUSION FROM TOUR You may be excluded from the tour at our discretion if you fail to comply with our reasonable instructions while on tour, if you interfere with other clients’ enjoyment of the tour, if you jeopardise the safety of other clients, if you engage in illegal or undesirable behaviour, or if you otherwise become a hazard to yourself or other clients. You will not be entitled to a refund and we will not be responsible for any expenses that you may incur if you are excluded from a tour for any of these reasons. 9. CHANGES IN PRICE AND MINIMUM NUMBERS Please note that all tours are subject to availability and all prices are subject to change without notice until your holiday has been paid in full. We reserve the right to change the tour components, the departure date, or any other aspect of the tour at our discretion until the tour has been paid for in full. All tours are based on a minimum number of participants. If this minimum number is not reached we reserve the right to cancel or re-cost this tour as appropriate. If we re-cost the tour and you decide not to proceed, or if we cancel the tour, your deposit is refundable in full. In all other circumstances your deposit is non-refundable. Provision of a tour director is subject to a minimum of 9 passengers. 10. HEALTH & FITNESS A minimum level of fitness is required to be able to participate on a Bunnik Tour. As a minimum you will need to be able to walk 2km on uneven surfaces, carry your own luggage and walk up a few flights of stairs with ease. All passengers aged 70 years and over must provide a “fitness to travel” letter from their doctor at the time of booking. You must inform us at the time of booking of any medical condition that you have which may affect your ability to participate in the tour. We may decide at our absolute discretion not to include you in a tour or in any activity if we consider that you are unable to safely participate in that tour or activity as a result of a medical condition or otherwise, or if we consider that your participation may place the safety of other clients at risk. We exclude all liability for any illness, injury or death sustained by you on tour as a result of any pre-existing medical condition. We will not be responsible for, and you agree to release us from, any liability arising out of any medical condition, illness or injury that you may suffer during the tour or as a result of the tour. You should consult your doctor or travel medical specialists in your home state before travel regarding any innoculations, medications and other health precautions that should be taken in relation to travel within the regions comprising your tour. 11. TRAVEL INSURANCE Travel insurance is not included in any of the prices in this brochure. It is a condition of travelling with Bunnik Tours that you have comprehensive travel insurance to cover you for the full duration of your journey for costs associated with illness, injury, death, loss of or damage to baggage and personal items, cancellation, loss of deposit, medical and hospitalisation expenses, repatriation and curtailment expenses due to illness, the need to return home unexpectedly, evacuation expenses and accidental death or disability. We will be able to advise you on request about travel insurance packages. However, you are solely responsible for obtaining the appropriate insurance cover as set out above. Bunnik Tours does not consider travel insurance offered by credit card companies as providing adequate cover. 12. AMENDMENT FEES Alterations to itineraries to suit individual requirements may be made in most instances. Requested amendments should be submitted to us in writing at time of booking. When alterations are requested after bookings are made, the $30 fee is applicable plus any additional costs and administrative expenses incurred in arranging the

Small Print

alteration. Alterations will be made at our discretion and may not always be possible. The alteration fee is due within 7 days of notification from us that the alteration will be carried out.

notified through Bunnik Tours even if you have advised the local representative. Bunnik Tours does not authorise the employees of any overseas supplier to promise refunds to clients.

13. OTHER CONDITIONS Bunnik Tours reserves the right to cancel or withdraw bookings made for or on behalf of a client at any time at their discretion, in which event no liability with respect to the cancellation or withdrawal shall fall on Bunnik Tours, save that all the monies paid for the booking shall be refunded, less any utilised land or transport content. The arrangement of this holiday constitutes a complete package and as such, an itemisation of costs will not be rendered. No refunds are payable on unused or partially utilised sections of the tour itinerary, where passengers amend, cancel, or otherwise vary arrangements after tour departure. Bunnik Tours does not authorise any overseas suppliers including hotel management to promise refunds on our behalf.

18. CONSUMER CLAIMS We endeavour to ensure that all your arrangements proceed smoothly. Occasionally problems can occur while you are away, in which case it is essential and most practical to try to resolve it locally with the provider of the service. If you are unhappy with your hotel room please inform the Duty Manager so the situation may be rectified on the spot. If you fail to take these steps any claim to compensation may be reduced or denied. If you have an unresolved complaint this should be put to us in writing detailing the efforts that were made with the local operator to resolve the issue. Please send this with supporting documentation within 30 days of the date of the service. No claim made after this period will be considered.

14. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND TAXES It is your responsibility to ensure that all passports, visas, travel permits, health certificates and other documentation required for the tour are obtained and are in order. You must also pay all required taxes, including Australian departure tax and ticket levies, which are payable in relation to the tour. You are responsible for any additional costs incurred by either us or you as a result of any failure to comply with these requirements.

19. GENERAL These Booking Conditions are governed by the laws applicable in the State of South Australia, and the parties agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of South Australia. If part or all of any provision of these Booking Conditions is illegal or unenforceable, it will be severed from these Booking Conditions and will not affect the continued operation of the remaining provisions of these Booking Conditions. We may vary these Booking Conditions from time to time by notifying you in writing.

15. CONSENT TO CONDITIONS By making any booking, you agree to comply with these Booking Conditions and warrant that you have obtained agreement to these Booking Conditions from all other clients for whom the booking is made. You are responsible for the total price of all bookings that you make.

17. WHEN YOU GET THERE Local Representatives: Your documentation states the name and telephone number of our local representatives for any assistance with difficulties or changes. If you need to alter your arrangements once overseas or add services to your booking you may do this through our local representative. Any additional costs incurred must be paid directly to the supplier of the service and may not be charged back to Bunnik Tours. We cannot be held responsible for any subsequent complaint with arrangements booked directly with suppliers abroad. Cancellations of confirmed services must be

Recent legislation in various states in Australia has highlighted the issue of age discrimination. In terms of style and content all of Bunnik Tours’ worldwide tours are specifically designed for people aged between 30 and 65 years. This fact should be recognised when you book one of our tours. 20. CANCELLATION Cancellation of reservation/s must be provided to us in writing and is subject to the following cancellation fees: 90 days or more before departure ..... loss of deposit 89 to 75 days before departure .................................. 25% 74 to 61 days before departure .................................. 50% Within 60 days of departure ..................................... 100% 20.1. Special Cancellation Special cancellation charges which may be higher than those listed above apply to cruising, rail tours, specialty accommodation and special event tours. These additional charges are set by our suppliers and vary per supplier. Please check with your consultant at the time of booking. Please note that tour costings are based on special airfares. Depending on the airlines these incur cancellation charges once the tickets have been issued. These charges are in addition to the cancellation charges set out above and in some cases can be as high as 100% once the ticket has been issued. Airlines are responsible for the timing of refunds of air tickets. 21. SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA EARLY BIRD To be eligible for our South & Central American early bird savings you need to book, pay a deposit and applicable airfare payment by 22 January 2016.

MAP LEGEND

16. BROCHURES We make no warranty about the accuracy of the tour information contained in Bunnik Tours publicity materials, and exclude all liability for any errors or omissions in those materials. All information should be checked prior to booking.

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Tour starts Tour ends Tour starts and ends in the same city Visited destinations Total number of nights (i.e. 2 nights) Port stops

Flight route Land route Rail route Water route Rail transportation Water transportation

ABBREVIATION [B,L,D] Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Special Notes on Cruising Please note that cruise itineraries are not guaranteed and are subject to change. Many factors may affect the cruise company’s ability to provide a particular itinerary including weather, mechanical difficulties, civil unrest and other unforeseen circumstances. Please refer to the website of the relevant cruise operator for full terms and conditions. Please note that there will not be a Bunnik Tours representative or tour guide on the cruise portion of the itinerary. While on the cruise your time is your own to relax and explore as you

choose. Once on the cruise, there is no sightseeing included as part of your Bunnik Tour. Should you like to book sightseeing (shore excursions) from the ship, this will need to be either prebooked via the Holland America Line / Celebrity Cruises website or on board. On the cruise, breakfast, lunch and dinner will be served in the main dining room. Holland America Line and Celebrity Cruises do have specialty restaurants that can be enjoyed for a small surcharge. Meals are included when in port, but only available on the

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ship. If you decide to take a day tour or leave the ship you will need to purchase your own meals. Whilst on a Holland America Line cruise a tipping surcharge is automatically charged to your room of approximately USD $12 per person per day. For Celebrity Cruises the tipping amount is already included in your tour price. For Australis Cruises tips are at the discretion of the passenger, we suggest US$ 15 per day per passenger, to be settled at the reception lounge on the last day of the cruise.

2016/17 Bunnik Tours Small Group Touring Program! Contact us or your travel agent to get a free copy of another exciting Bunnik Tours brochure!

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Bunnik Tours 45 Flinders St, Adelaide SA 5000 GPO Box 2667, Adelaide 5001 P: 08 8359 2295 F: 08 8359 2305 Bunnik Travel Pty Ltd • ATAS accreditation #A10484

Customer Sales & Enquiries Phone:

1800 286 645 Email: [email protected]

Agent Sales & Enquiries Phone:

1300 125 007

Email: [email protected]

www.bunniktours.com.au All prices shown are per person based on twin share. Single rooms are available at a supplement, check our website for details. Prices are correct at time of printing but are subject to change. Note air supplement may apply depending on airline availability and departure cities. Bunnik Travel Pty Ltd - trading as Bunnik Tours • ATAS accreditation #A10484.

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