GROUP JOURNEYS - Journey Latin America

GROUP JOURNEYSE S C O R T E D S M A L L G R O U P H O L I D AY S 2 0 2 0

JOURNEYLATIN AMERICA

LATIN AMERICA

BRAZIL

BOLIVIA

PARAGUAY

URUGUAY

ARGENTINA

COLOMBIA

ECUADORGALAPAGOS

ISLANDS

PERU

CHILE

MEXICO

CUBA

U.S.A.

VENEZUELA

FRENCH GUIANASURINAME

GUYANA

PANAMA

COSTA RICA

BELIZE

GUATEMALA HONDURAS

NICARAGUAEL SALVADOR

Mexico City••Mérida

EQUATOR

•Guatemala

City

•Belize City

•San José

•Panama City

•Managua

•Havana

•Santiago

Bogotá•

Cartagena•

Georgetown•

Rio de Janeiro•

Quito•

Guayaquil•

Cusco•

Lima•

La Paz•

Sucre•

Santiago•

San Pedro de Atacama

•

Punta Arenas•

Ushuaia•

Buenos Aires•

Iguazú Falls•

Bariloche•

FALKLAND ISLANDS

•Caracas

SOUTH PACIFICOCEAN

SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN

NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN

CARIBBEAN SEA

TROPIC OF CANCER

TROPIC OF CAPRICORN

You’ll have your personal preference defined by your own circumstances, but choosing when to go can be bewildering. We can guide you with regard to other factors such as weather, events, festivals or crowds. Our journey dates bear these in mind.

Mexico and Central America

• To be sure of sunshine and to minimise the chance of rain, travel in the dry season between December and April.

• The rainier months (with a small hurricane risk mostly Sept-Nov) have their own verdant charm, and because they fall outside the school holidays, resorts and popular archaeological sites will be less crowded.

• Local parades and festivities occur throughout the year in this region of multilayered religious belief: Christmas, Mardi Gras carnival (before Lent), Easter and the Day of the Dead in November, are among the most notable. Our Journeys and extensions are timed to catch some of these.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO?

Jan Feb March April May June July August Sept Oct Nov Dec

Cuba

Havana 26 17 6 L 26 17 7 L 28 19 5 M 29 20 5 M 30 22 9 H 31 23 13 H 32 23 10 H 32 23 11 H 31 23 13 H 30 22 13 H 28 20 9 M 27 18 7 L

Santiago 29 18 6 M 29 18 5 M 30 19 6 H 30 20 8 H 30 21 12 H 31 22 11 H 32 22 13 H 32 22 13 H 32 22 14 H 31 22 15 H 30 20 8 H 29 19 6 M

Mexico

Mérida 23 17 4 M 30 18 3 M 33 20 2 H 35 21 2 H 36 23 6 H 34 23 11 H 34 23 14 H 34 23 13 H 33 23 15 H 31 21 10 H 30 19 5 M 29 18 5 M

Mexico City 22 4 2 0 24 5 1 0 26 7 3 L 27 9 6 L 27 10 10 L 25 12 15 L 24 11 20 0 24 11 19 0 23 11 16 0 23 9 8 0 23 6 4 0 22 4 2 0

Guatemala

Guatemala City 22 10 8 0 24 11 7 0 25 12 7 L 26 13 9 L 25 14 19 L 23 14 26 L 23 14 25 L 24 14 24 L 23 14 26 L 22 14 22 0 22 12 12 0 22 11 9 0

Belize

Belize City 27 19 14 M 28 20 9 M 29 21 6 M 30 22 5 H 31 24 8 H 31 24 17 H 31 24 19 H 31 24 18 H 31 24 18 H 30 22 17 H 28 21 15 M 27 20 14 M

Nicaragua

Managua 29 19 6 H 31 20 4 H 32 21 4 H 33 22 7 H 32 23 17 H 30 21 23 H 30 21 20 H 30 21 21 H 30 21 24 H 30 21 21 H 29 20 11 H 29 20 8 H

Costa Rica

San José 23 15 12 0 24 15 9 L 25 16 8 L 25 16 10 L 25 17 19 L 25 17 24 L 24 17 23 L 24 17 24 L 24 17 24 L 24 17 23 L 24 16 18 L 23 16 16 0

Panama

Panama City 16 5 9 0 18 7 9 0 21 10 8 0 25 14 5 L 29 18 7 M 32 21 12 H 32 23 15 H 32 23 15 H 31 21 11 H 27 15 6 L 22 10 7 0 18 7 8 0

Colombia

Bogotá 18 5 8 0 18 5 11 0 18 6 14 0 18 7 19 0 17 7 21 0 16 7 22 0 16 7 20 0 17 6 19 0 17 6 18 0 17 7 20 0 17 6 17 0 18 5 11 0

Cartagena 31 23 1 H 31 23 0 H 31 24 0 H 32 24 3 H 32 25 10 H 32 25 13 H 32 25 10 H 32 25 14 H 32 25 14 H 31 24 16 H 31 24 12 H 31 23 3 H

Venezuela

Caracas 24 13 8 L 24 13 5 L 26 13 4 L 26 15 6 M 26 16 12 M 25 16 19 L 25 16 20 L 25 16 17 L 26 16 16 M 25 15 15 L 25 15 13 L 24 14 11 L

Guyana

Georgetown 29 23 24 H 29 23 15 H 30 24 15 H 30 24 17 H 30 24 25 H 30 24 24 H 30 23 27 H 31 24 19 H 31 24 13 H 31 24 14 H 31 24 18 H 29 24 25 H

Ecuador

Quito 21 3 19 0 20 3 19 0 20 3 22 0 20 4 23 0 20 4 21 0 20 3 14 0 20 3 10 0 21 2 11 0 21 2 15 0 20 3 19 0 20 3 17 0 21 3 18 0

Guayaquil 33 21 16 H 33 21 18 H 33 22 18 H 33 21 12 H 32 20 6 H 31 20 3 H 31 18 3 M 31 18 2 M 32 19 2 H 32 19 3 H 32 19 2 H 33 20 5 H

Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Islands 28 18 17 M 30 19 12 H 30 18 8 H 30 19 9 H 28 18 9 M 27 17 13 M 25 16 18 L 24 15 19 L 24 15 19 L 24 15 16 L 25 16 16 L 26 16 13 M

Peru

Cusco 17 4 18 0 17 4 25 0 17 4 16 0 18 3 10 0 18 0 6 0 18 -2 2 0 17 -2 2 0 18 -1 3 0 18 1 8 0 19 3 10 0 19 3 10 0 18 4 15 0

Lima 26 18 1 L 27 19 1 M 26 18 1 M 25 17 1 L 22 15 1 0 20 14 1 0 19 13 1 0 18 13 2 0 19 13 1 0 20 13 1 0 22 14 1 0 24 16 1 L

Bolivia

La Paz 13 2 20 0 13 2 18 0 13 1 15 0 13 0 8 0 13 -3 3 0 12 -5 1 0 12 -5 2 0 13 -4 3 0 14 -2 9 0 15 0 9 0 15 1 10 0 14 2 16 0

Sucre 23 11 16 0 22 11 13 0 23 11 11 0 23 9 6 0 22 6 2 0 22 4 1 0 21 4 1 0 22 5 2 0 23 7 4 0 24 9 8 0 24 10 10 0 23 11 14 0

Brazil

Rio de Janeiro 30 21 20 H 30 21 16 H 29 21 15 M 27 19 15 M 26 17 12 L 25 16 9 L 24 16 9 L 25 16 9 L 25 17 11 L 26 18 18 L 27 19 19 M 28 20 21 M

Chile

Punta Arenas 15 7 6 0 14 7 5 0 13 6 7 0 9 4 9 0 6 2 6 0 4 1 8 0 3 1 6 0 4 1 5 0 7 2 5 0 10 3 5 0 12 4 5 0 14 6 8 0

San P. de Atacama 21 10 11 0 20 10 11 0 20 9 8 0 19 6 3 0 17 3 0 0 16 1 0 0 16 0 0 0 17 2 1 0 18 4 1 0 20 6 3 0 21 8 5 0 21 9 10 0

Santiago 26 14 4 M 25 14 4 M 23 12 4 L 19 9 3 0 16 6 3 0 13 4 3 0 13 3 4 0 14 4 3 0 16 5 4 0 20 8 3 0 23 11 3 L 25 13 4 L

Argentina

Bariloche 22 7 5 0 22 6 5 0 19 4 6 0 15 2 8 0 10 1 14 0 7 -1 14 0 7 -1 15 0 8 -1 13 0 11 0 10 0 14 1 8 0 17 4 6 0 20 6 5 0

Buenos Aires 29 20 8 M 28 19 8 M 26 17 8 L 22 14 7 0 19 11 7 0 15 8 7 0 15 7 7 0 17 8 7 0 19 10 7 0 22 13 10 0 25 15 9 L 28 18 9 M

Iguazú Falls 32 20 10 H 31 20 11 H 31 19 7 H 27 16 8 L 24 12 9 0 21 10 8 0 22 10 7 0 24 11 8 L 25 13 9 L 28 15 10 M 30 17 10 M 32 19 8 H

Ushuaia 12 4 14 0 12 4 12 0 11 2 10 0 8 1 12 0 5 -1 11 0 3 -3 8 0 3 -3 8 0 4 -2 7 0 7 -1 7 0 9 1 8 0 10 2 10 0 12 3 11 0

South America

• The high season for visitors is July and August in the Andes, and December to February along the Caribbean coast and in Brazil, Chile and Argentina, where resorts and sites of interest can be very crowded with both local and foreign tourists.

•�The�climatic�seasons�are�more�defined�the�further�you�go�from�the�equator,�which runs through Quito, Ecuador, and the Amazon basin. As a result, most people choose to travel to Patagonia in the southern summer, when daylight hours are long and there’s a chance of warm sunshine.

• Elsewhere, variation is more according to altitude: it will be cold at night over 3,000m in the Andes, where it is driest, and generally sunny and warm between June and September. In the highlands the shoulder months of May and October can also be particularly pleasant, with plenty of decent weather and fewer tourists.

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°C Maximum°C MinimumMaximum day / minimum night temperature

Rainy daysWith some rainfall

Heat/Humidity0 = NoneL = LowM = ModerateH = High

Join our online communities:

JourneyLatinAmerica @JLA_UK

Why go to Latin America? This most exotic of continents is cloaked in glorious scenery, from dazzling peaks and glaciers through sun-scorched deserts to luxuriant jungles. Some twenty countries are peppered with the vestiges of bygone empires, and the markets, music and melodramas of everyday life provide a real-time theatre for the visitor.

In�this�comprehensive�brochure�you’ll�find�inspirational�holidays we’ve perfected using the knowledge and experience gained over the 40 years that we have been leading�the�field.

Our�group�tours�are�for�first-timers�to�Latin�America,� as well as for those who want to revisit the continent. They are led by knowledgeable tour leaders and comprise mixed ages and often various nationalities. Group sizes are small and our style of travel is comfortable, friendly, and informal. Our holidays draw upon the personal travel experience�of�our�staff,�the�assistance�of�our�partners�in�Latin America, and the feedback we have received from those who travel with us.

To help you get the best out of your trip, we have a team of well-travelled, enthusiastic and articulate tour leaders, all selected and trained by ourselves. They deal with the practicalities and keep you informed and entertained.

Let us show you the best of Latin America, from the much-heralded highlights to the secrets we’ve discovered.

COVER PHOTOGRAPH: GABRIEL PEREZ / GETTYIMAGES.CO.UK. THIS PAGE: VALMOL48 / ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

WELCOME TOJOURNEY LATIN AMERICA

@journeylatinamerica

THIS WAS OUR SECOND TRIP WITH JLA AND, AS WITH THE FIRST, WE HAD A FANTASTIC TRIP AND A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE. JLA’S KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE OF LATIN AMERICA SHONE THROUGH IN THE ORGANISATION OF THE TRIP AS A WHOLE, AND ALL THE INDIVIDUAL TRIPS AND OPTIONS. WE WOULD WHOLE-HEARTEDLY RECOMMEND JLA TO ANYONE CONTEMPLATING A TRIP TO LATIN AMERICA AND WE WILL DEFINITELY BE BOOKING ANOTHER TOUR WITH JLA IN THE FUTURE.DL, TWICKENHAM

WE HAVE TRAVELLED WITH JLA ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS THROUGHOUT SOUTH AMERICA. JLA MAY NOT BE THE CHEAPEST TOUR OPERATOR, BUT BOOKING WITH JLA MEANS PEACE OF MIND, EXPERT AND HELPFUL ADVICE, RELIABLE PICK UPS AND TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS AND EXPERT AND INFORMATIVE TOUR LEADERS AND LOCAL GUIDES. A HOLIDAY SHOULD BE FREE OF WORRY AND JLA TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING!CR, BATH

DISCOVERY JOURNEYS 14 PARAKEET CUBA Cuba beyond the beach 16 ALCION PANAMA, COSTA RICA, NICARAGUA, EL SALVADOR, HONDURAS AND GUATEMALA Central America discovery 18 COTINGA NICARAGUA OffthebeatentrackNicaragua 20 TANAGER COSTA RICA Flora and fauna of Costa Rica 22 WEAVERBIRD COLOMBIA Spirit of Colombia 24 COQ OF THE ROCK VENEZUELA, BRAZIL, GUYANA, SURINAME AND FRENCH GUIANA TrailblazingtheGuianas 26 PALOMA ECUADOR AND THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS AndeanEcuadorandlandbasedGalápagos 28 CONDOR PERU AND BOLIVIA Peru in depth 30 TICO TICO PERU CultureoftheNorthernAndes 32 JACANA PERU, BOLIVIA, PARAGUAY, ARGENTINA AND BRAZIL Crossingthecontinent 34 ZAMPULLIN BOLIVIA Vistas of Bolivia 36 PATO ANDINO ARGENTINA, CHILE, BOLIVIA AND PERU Panorama of the Andes 38 NANDU

CHILE AND ARGENTINA PeaksandplainsofPatagonia

40 CHARITO CHILE AND ARGENTINA PurePatagonia 42 UNTOUCHED AISEN ARGENTINA AND CHILE Little-knownPatagonia 44 TANGARA CHILE, ARGENTINA AND BRAZIL Bluelakesandemeraldcoasts 46 TROGON BRAZIL NaturalBrazil

CLASSIC JOURNEYS 50 TOCORORO CUBA Rum and revolution 52 EAGLE MEXICO Aztecs, Mayas and conquistadores 54 TROPICBIRD NICARAGUA, EL SALVADOR, GUATEMALA AND BELIZE HighlightsofCentralAmerica 56 KINKAJOU GUATEMALA AND BELIZE BestofGuatemalaandBelize 58 CHACHALACA COLOMBIA Colombia’scolonialandcoffeeculture 60 PICAFLOR ECUADOR Ecuadorontrack 62 ALBATROSS ECUADOR AND THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS Ecuador’shighlandsandGalápagos 64 GALAPAGOS HAWK

PERU, ECUADOR AND THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

PeruandGalápagos 65 SWIFT PERU UltimatehighlightsofPeru 66 PELICANO PERU Essential Peru 68 ANDEAN FLAMINGO PERU, BOLIVIA AND CHILE The Andes laid bare 70 HUMMINGBIRD

BRAZIL, ARGENTINA, BOLIVIA AND PERU Ocean to ocean

72 SANDPIPER BRAZIL, ARGENTINA AND CHILE AtlantictoPacificinstyle 74 LAPWING CHILE AND ARGENTINA Patagonianodyssey 76 GAUCHO CHILE AND ARGENTINA VintageArgentina 78 PENGUIN CHILE Extremes of Chile

02 HIGHLIGHTS OF LATIN AMERICA04 OUR EXPERIENCE 05 OUR TEAM06 TOUR LEADERS08 THE STYLE OF OUR GROUP TOURS 10 GROUP TOURS: THE SPECIFICS

80 EXTENSIONS86 TRIP DOSSIERS & GROUP TRAVELLER LOYALTY SCHEME87 OUR WEBSITE88 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

CONTENTS

02 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020

HIGHLIGHTS OF LATIN AMERICA

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CLIENT REVIEWS, TRIP DOSSIERS, DETAILED EXTENSIONS AND TO BOOK ONLINE VISIT JOURNEYLATINAMERICA.CO.UK➽

MEXICO

Mexico hosts a rich colonial and Mayan heritage. Discover its jungle-clad temples and pyramids at Chichén Itzá and Palenque; wander through its graceful colonial towns and gaze at its coastline of white sand and aquamarine seas.Eagle Classic Journey – p52

CUBA

Cuba’s beautiful, crumbling colonial towns lie beside stunning natural landscapes, from Caribbean beaches to rugged mountains and forests. The island’s unique and eventful history is mirrored in its rich culture. Soviet buses, classic 1950s cars and the absence of familiar global brands make for an exhilarating experience.Parakeet Discovery Journey – p14Tocororo Classic Journey – p50

CENTRAL AMERICA

Central America represents a unique fusion of Caribbean, Mayan, Spanish and even Mennonite cultures. Its landscapes are similarly varied, sheltering volcanoes, mystical lakes, treasure-island-style beaches and rainforests alive with abundant wildlife. Not to mention some of the best preserved colonial cities in all Latin America.Alción Discovery Journey – p16Cotinga Discovery Journey – p18 Tanager Discovery Journey – p20 Tropicbird Classic Journey – p54

COLOMBIA

Explore Bogotá’s captivating Gold Museum and discover the lush green hills of the coffee region and exotic beaches of Tayrona National Park where dense jungle tumbles down to hidden coves. Cartagena – with its cobbled streets and flower-filled balconies – is the most romantic and atmospheric colonial city on the continent.

Weaverbird Discovery Journey: Spirit of Colombia – p22Chachalaca Classic Journey: Colombia’s colonial and coffee culture – p58

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Formed from the peaks of gigantic volcanoes, the Galápagos archipelago is home to an extraordinary array of animals and plants which came to adapt to their unique habitat over several millennia and famously gave rise to Darwin’s theory of evolution. Most often visited on a cruise, the islands display a living theatre of wildlife including sea lions, marine iguanas, giant tortoises and a huge diversity of birdlife.Paloma Discovery Journey – p26Albatross Classic Journey – p62Galápagos Hawk Classic Journey – p64

ECUADOR

Ecuador has a staggering geographical diversity, from snow-capped Andean volcanic peaks to misty highland cloud forest, steaming Amazon rainforest and wild Pacific beaches. There’s a strong indigenous tradition in the highlands where you’ll find hand-woven textiles and crafts in vibrant markets. Quito is one of the most impressive colonial cities on the continent.Picaflor Classic Journey – p60

NORTHERN PERU

Explore the less-visited northern regions of Peru; a land of snow-capped peaks, deserts, sweeping beaches and the vestiges of fabulously wealthy pre-Inca civilisations. Highlights include the remarkable pre-Inca adobe city at Chan Chan, the colonial charm of Cajamarca and the huge mountain-top temple at Kuelap.Tico Tico Discovery Journey – p30

PERU

Sublime landscapes, wildlife, history, culture and cuisine – Peru has more than its fair share of treasures. Snow-capped Andean peaks shelter beautifully preserved Inca temples and fortresses, including jewel in the crown, Machu Picchu. Traditional families live a way of life unchanged for centuries on floating reed islands on majestic Lake Titicaca, while an abundance of flora and fauna thrives in its Amazon regions.Condor Discovery Journey – p28Pelicano Classic Journey – p66

THE GUIANAS

Largely unexplored Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana have unique and fascinating cultures and offer a remote and wild adventure in vast jungles, sweeping savannah and ancient tablelands. The vast Kaieteur Falls – the world’s widest single-drop waterfall and four times higher than Niagara – is an extraordinary sight. Combines well with neighbouring Venezuela, home of the world’s highest single drop waterfall, Angel Falls.Coq of the Rock Discovery Journey – p24

IGUAZU FALLS

Straddling the border between southern Brazil and northeast Argentina, the Iguazú Falls (spelt Iguaçú in Brazil) are usually rated number one of the world’s big three waterfalls and considered Latin America’s most awe-inspiring natural sight. 276 separate cascades form a giant curtain of foaming water which crash through tangled sub-tropical jungle. Both sides offer a unique experience – from Brazil, enjoy a full panorama; in Argentina get up close on a series of walkways and viewing platforms.Jacana Discovery Journey – p32Hummingbird Classic Journey – p70

BRAZIL

Brazil’s vast territory encompasses Amazon jungle, desert sand dunes, roaring waterfalls and vibrant cities, and boasts perfect beaches across almost the full length of its coastline. The sights and sounds of Rio de Janeiro, from the beach sports of Copacabana to the statue of Christ overlooking the city, are synonymous with Brazil. Whilst the vast wetland region of the Pantanal is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts thanks to its easy spotting opportunities.Tangara Discovery Journey – p44Trogon Discovery Journey – p46

PATAGONIA

Dramatically beautiful Patagonia, shared across southern Argentina and Chile and split by the Andes is an epic region of towering granite peaks, lush green forest and meadows, cobalt blue lakes, snow-capped volcanic cones and giant ice-wall glaciers. Widely considered to offer some of the world’s best trekking, it spoils its visitors with unparalleled photogenic scenery.Nandú Discovery Journey – p38Charito Discovery Journey – p40Lapwing Classic Journey – p74

BUENOS AIRES

Wander among the colourful clapboard houses of La Boca, shop in glitzy Recoleta and watch tango in San Telmo. This lively, cosmopolitan city offers a myriad of delights at all hours. Intriguing flea markets and fine dining make up some of the many pleasures of this elegant metropolis.Sandpiper Classic Journey – p72 Gaucho Classic Journey – p76

ATACAMA DESERT

The world’s driest desert in northern Chile is an arid otherworldly landscape of wind-carved rock formations dotted with geysers and hot springs. At Moon Valley (its name says it all) visitors are treated to a captivating spectacle each day as the landscape is lit up in different shades of pink, crimson and mandarin by the setting sun. Some of the world’s best star-gazing is enjoyed too – many international observatories are located here.Penguin Classic Journey – p78

BOLIVIA

Bolivia has a variety of dramatic landscapes and an indigenous culture and way of life that has changed little since the Spanish conquest. High-altitude La Paz, the capital, is a maze of houses clinging to steep canyon sides with a striking mountain backdrop and theatrical streetlife.The shimmering salt flats at Uyuni is a natural wonder which in the dry season resembles an endless sheet of searing white while in the wet, a vast mirror for the sky. Zampullin Discovery Journey – p34Pato Andino Discovery Journey – p36Andean Flamingo Classic Journey – p68

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BRAZIL

BOLIVIA

PARAGUAY

URUGUAY

ARGENTINA

COLOMBIA

ECUADOR

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

PERU

CHILE

PANAMA

COSTA RICA

BELIZE

GUATEMALA

MEXICO

CUBA

U.S.A.

HONDURAS

NICARAGUA

VENEZUELA

EL SALVADOR

FRENCH GUIANA

SURINAMEGUYANA

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TO EASTER ISLAND (3790km)

EQUATOR

SOUTH PACIFICOCEAN

SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN

BELIZE

GUATEMALA HONDURAS

EL SALVADOR

MEXICO

NICARAGUA

COSTA RICA

PANAMA

NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN

CARIBBEAN SEA

FALKLAND ISLANDS

EQUATOR

CALL 020 8747 8315 TO SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR EXPERT CONSULTANTS FOR ADVICE, ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY


We’ve grown up with Latin America over our 40 years and moved on with it. Here’s why we think our knowledge and experience puts us ahead of the rest:

• We’ve forged long-standing relationships with the best suppliers of services and hotels all over the continent, while keeping our eyes open for new talent and new services.

• Some of our own staff and tour leaders have been with us for over 30 years; their expertise is unrivalled among tour operators serving the region.

• We were among the first to offer escorted group tours and holidays tailored for individuals to Latin America. So by now we know how to find what’s new, what to change, and what to leave.

• Virtually all our permanent staff are Latin American experts, dealing with all aspects of travel to the continent. Of these, six constitute our Group Tours team, dedicated to the research, operation, sales and administration of our Journeys.

• We’ve found the top local guides who, working alongside our tour leaders, will look after, entertain and inform you with their specialist knowledge and insight.

Flexibility—add on what you will!Many operators offer group holidays where itineraries, dates of travel and airline are fixed. We can do better than that. We understand that not all our clients want to fly to and from London. We have welcomed clients from as far afield as the USA, Australia, Hong Kong and Europe. So while we give details of flights and inclusive tour prices from the UK, our holidays begin and end in Latin America: you can join us from anywhere in the

world, and we can help you make your arrangements to do so.

What’s more, your chosen Journey may not include something you particularly wanted to see or do. Although your group holiday has a self-contained fixed itinerary, we offer extensions you can add on before or after which may well fill the gap. These are not escorted by your tour leader. Where appropriate, they will be led by English-speaking local guides, often with a relevant specialism. Or you may be left alone to enjoy a beach wind-down, for example. On pages 80-85 of this brochure are some popular add-ons which fit with our Journeys. This selection is not exhaustive, so if you can’t see what you are looking for visit our website, or talk to one of our experts.

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WE HAD ANOTHER SUPERB HOLIDAY WITH JOURNEY LATIN AMERICA. I WOULD NEVER TRAVEL TO LATIN AMERICA WITH ANOTHER COMPANY.BD, HARTLEPOOL

OUR STRENGTH IS IN OUR EXPERIENCE

*BEST TOUR OPERATOR TO LATIN AMERICASelling Travel Agents Choice Awards 2016

TOUR OPERATOR OF THE YEAR Food and Travel Magazine Readers’ Awards 2016

CIM TRAVEL MARKETING AWARDSBest Website 2017


WE HAVE TOURED THE USA, EUROPE AND CHINA BEFORE BUT THE EXPERIENCE WE HAD WITH JLA WAS THE BY FAR AND AWAY THE BEST WE’VE EVER HAD!PD, STOCKPORT

*GOLD TRUSTED SERVICE AWARD 2018Feefo

TOP 10 TOUR OPERATORWanderlust Travel Awards 2015

SHORTLISTED BEST SPECIALIST TOUR OPERATORThe Times Travel Awards 2017

Do you have a passion for travelling? Then don’t miss out on our new Group Traveller Loyalty Scheme. Find out more on pg86.


Jim Ashworth, ManagerJim first travelled to Latin America in 2001 while studying Classics at university, on a last minute trip Central America – he hasn’t looked back since. In 2005, Jim quit his job to travel all over South America. He was able to discover the inside track on Latin America by being open to its spontaneous and friendly culture. He joined us on his return and having worked in both sales and operations now manages the team.

Alexandra Walker, Assistant ManagerAlexandra is one of the most international members of our team: though English, she first called the UK home at the age of 18, after a childhood spent in Portugal, Belgium and Luxembourg. It didn’t last and she was soon heading to Mexico to study abroad where she fell in love with the white sand beaches and ancient ruins. Since joining us in 2010, trips through Ecuador, Brazil, Belize and Cuba have helped her put to use her fluent Spanish and Portuguese.

Hannah DonaldsonA lifetime involved in some way or other in Latin America, has installed a great passion for the continent within Hannah. She spent a number of years in Colombia as a child, worked in tourism in Brazil and volunteered in Costa Rica. Her years as a senior travel consultant within our Bespoke department has afforded her a chance to visit all corners of the continent and given her a product knowledge second to none.

Nicola GoldieNicola’s first experience of Latin America was during her gap year when she backpacked around Chile, Bolivia, Peru and Ecuador. As part of her degree, Nicola then spent a year in Bogotá teaching and immersing herself in Colombian life – including a spot of salsa dancing. Just before joining us she was working with a charity in Nicaragua, and brings her enthusiasm for all things Latin American to the department.

Johno VincentJohno is one of the longest serving members of the JLA team, and brings his wealth of product knowledge to our group tours operations. When not overseeing the smooth running of tours he is an avid cyclist and is never too far away from one of his many bikes – whether here in the UK or on the hills of Central or South America.

Carolyn GallagherCarolyn has travelled extensively throughout Central and South America, including a stop-off to work as a dive master in the Bay Islands, Honduras. Foremost among her enthusiasms for all things Latin American is her love of trekking in Patagonia, football matches in Rio and sharing her appreciation of local food and wines with her clients. A former tour leader, Carolyn has recently joined our office team, bringing with her a wealth of experience and knowledge.

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01. Jim Ashworth02. Hannah Donaldson03. Nicola Goldie04. Alexandra Walker05. Johno Vincent 06. Carolyn Gallagher

A WONDERFUL INTRODUCTION TO LATIN AMERICA, THANKS TO ORGANISED, KNOWLEDGEABLE, ENTHUSIASTIC AND FRIENDLY HELP FROM EVERYONE WORKING FOR JOURNEY LATIN AMERICA. HAS LEFT US WANTING TO VISIT AGAIN. ML, CHELMSFORD

AN EXTREMELY MEMORABLE TRIP, WELL ORGANISED, WITH KNOWLEDGEABLE AND PASSIONATE GUIDES. I’M SO LUCKY TO HAVE HAD THIS GREAT EXPERIENCE AND NOT TO HAVE HAD THE WORRY OF ORGANISING IT. JB, BRISTOL

GREAT EXPERIENCE FROM JOURNEY LATIN AMERICA FROM START TO FINISH.JD, BRISTOL

I WAS SO IMPRESSED BY THE SERVICE JLA PROVIDED - BOTH BEFOREHAND IN HELPING ME TO ORGANISE THE PERFECT HOLIDAY TO SUIT ME AND MY INTERESTS AND THEN IN MAKING SURE EVERYTHING WORKED SMOOTHLY DURING THE TRIP ITSELF. IT ALL RAN LIKE CLOCKWORK. LN, BILLERICAY

I CANNOT IMAGINE TRAVELLING TO LATIN AMERICA WITH ANYONE OTHER THAN JLA. THEY AGAIN PROVED THAT THEY ARE THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS. AFTER OUR FIRST VISIT TO SOUTH AMERICA I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE A HARD STANDARD TO LIVE UP TO, BUT THIS TRIP PROVED ME WRONG. TS, PONTEFRACT


OUR TEAM

EVERYONE I HAD CONTACT WITH WAS IMPRESSIVE! FROM THE MOMENT I STEPPED OFF THE PLANE FROM CANADA TO THE MOMENT I CAUGHT MY RETURN FLIGHT, I FELT LIKE I WAS BEING TREATED LIKE ROYALTY BY ALL THOSE WHO MET ME, STEERED ME THROUGH TO HOTEL CHECK-INS, ETC. THIS WAS MY VERY FIRST COMPLETELY SOLO ADVENTURE AND I FELT SO SECURE AND WELL-CARED FOR ALL THE WAY. EH, CANADA

You’ll be accompanied from start to finish by one of our exceptional tour leaders on all but a select few trips, where we feel a local leader offers a better trained insight. They deal with all the practicalities, expertly adapting to the circumstances and individual needs of the group, as well as keeping you informed and entertained.

We are delighted by the praise heaped on our tour leaders by you, our clients. Many of you say it is their professionalism, competence, knowledge and service which really make the holiday perfect.

Every year a number of our tour leaders are nominated by you for the prestigious Wanderlust Guide of the Year Award and we are proud to have had leaders in the final, and even win the award in recent years.

Most of our leaders have worked exclusively with us for many years. The experience they have logged up is priceless. But our new leaders are also very much appreciated for their enthusiasm, willingness to go the extra mile, and their passion for Latin America.

Why are they so successful? We select our leaders very carefully. They are not conventional

‘couriers’, but really lead the trip, making operational decisions as well as looking after the welfare of all members of the group. All speak the local language, know the ground from personal travels, and have the kind of temperament which is likely to make a group gel.

Many of our leaders hold academic qualifications in subjects related to Latin America, others have acquired expertise in situ. They are happy to share their local knowledge with you or find out what you need to know. They are also adept at seeking out little bars or quirky museums away from the tourist crowds.

Where beneficial we’ve also found the top local guides who can enhance your experience with their specialist knowledge.

Don’t take our word for it!The latest figures speak for themselves:

• 98% of clients rate the leader’s overall performance as ‘excellent’ or ‘good’.

• 98% of clients rate the leader’s local knowledge as ‘excellent’ or ‘good’.

• 96% of clients rate the leader’s social skills as ‘excellent’ or ‘good’.

01. Max Wood02. Daniele Binaghi03. Duncan Griffin04. Lucho Diaz05. Etienne Frans06. Elizabeth Luck07. Adrian Gallop08. Delia Pocon09. Jessica de Gier10. Berner Torres

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TOUR LEADERS

Delia PoconDelia’s native Antigua, Guatemala has been her base for her work in tourism for many a year now. Her reputation precedes her as being one of the most enthusiastic and passionate guides in the region and her extensive knowledge of Guatemala and Central America has meant that we have been lucky enough to have her as a valued member of our JLA Tour Leader team.

ETIENNE IS AN EXCELLENT, KNOWLEDGEABLE AND PATIENT TOUR LEADER. HIS EXTENSIVE NETWORK OF CONTACTS AND IN DEPTH UNDERSTANDING OF THE CULTURE, PEOPLE AND PRACTICES OF SOUTH AMERICA ENSURE THAT THE HOLIDAY PROCEEDS WITHOUT ANY HITCHES. HE IS A BENCH MARK BY WHICH I WILL JUDGE ALL OTHER TOUR LEADERS!JG, BRENTWOOD

Etienne FransSuch is his love for Latin America and sharing it with others that Etienne, resident of Rio, has worked with us as a tour leader for over 30 years. He has accrued a vast network of contacts, and a huge fund of knowledge and anecdotes. His traveller’s wisdom and useful tips are greatly appreciated, as is his good sense of humour, which puts everyone at ease.

DUNCAN WAS AVAILABLE, APPROACHABLE, KNOWLEDGEABLE, ORGANIZED, INFORMATIVE, GOOD-NATURED, CALM,HELPFUL, INCLUSIVE, AND PATIENT. WHAT A GUY! EH, CANADA

Adrian GallopFor over 15 years, an experienced presence in the Chiswick office, Anglo-Peruvian Adrian combines a superior intellect with well-honed mountaineering skills—he has scaled many a peak in Peru. As a tour leader he’s been a magnificent ambassador for Journey Latin America and has many a story to tell about his exploits. Now based in Arequipa he packs his bags regularly to lead tours all over Latin America.

CUBA TOUR LEADERS Owing to government restrictions on tour leaders working for foreign based companies, things work a little differently for our two Cuban tours. The tour leader for our Parakeet or Tocororo tours will be a local guide who has been handpicked by JLA and our local supplier in Cuba. Like all our tour leaders, they will accompany you throughout the tour and have been trained in the same way as any of our other experienced guides. Their local knowledge of Cuba also means they are best placed to give a fascinating insight into this remarkable country.

ADRIAN WAS EXCELLENT. VERY AWARE OF NEEDS AND GAVE TIME TO EACH PERSON INDIVIDUALLY. HE HAD GREAT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND GENERAL INFORMATION. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! CB, BECKENHAM


LUCHO WAS EXCELLENT – AS WE TOLD HIM, AT THE FINAL NIGHT DINNER, HE BROUGHT PERU TO LIFE FOR US. HIS KNOWLEDGE AND ENTHUSIASM SHONE THROUGH.DL, TWICKENHAM

CANNOT PRAISE DANIELE BINAGHI’S LEADERSHIP HIGHLY ENOUGH. HE WAS THE BEST GUIDE WE HAVE EVER HAD ON ANY TRIP ANYWHERE.LF, ALDERLEY EDGE

FANTASTIC – HE WAS PREPARED TO GO THE EXTRA MILE TO BE HELPFUL. HIS LOCAL KNOWLEDGE IS ENORMOUS AND ALL USEFUL. HIS BRIEFINGS WERE EXCELLENT – UNDOUBTEDLY THE BEST TOUR LEADER WE HAVE MET IN OVER 20 YEARS OF THIS TYPE OF TRAVELLING!”RL, MORPETH



I'VE TRAVELLED ON SEVERAL TOURS WITH DIFFERENT COMPANIES OVER MANY YEARS AND CAN CATEGORICALLY SAY THAT ELIZABETH LUCK IS ONE OF THE BEST TOUR LEADERS I'VE ENCOUNTERED.PJ, WINDSOR

Elizabeth LuckElizabeth spent a year travelling round the world, including 6 months in South America, before deciding to make her visit to Peru more permanent. She taught English in Peru for 3 years, dividing her time between the northern beaches of Mancora and the colonial city of Arequipa. Elizabeth enjoys salsa dancing whenever possible, and is a great enthusiast for all things Latin.

Max WoodMax has worked as a tour leader all over the world, but his greatest love is Latin America. Having lived in Panama, Argentina and Chile it is the continent he knows best and where he feels most at home. Max has cycled and trekked all over the region, he has even walked from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego. It is his passion to show clients the area of the world he loves the most.

Lucho DiazLucho works out of his native Cusco; a father of three, he still devotes himself whole-heartedly to tour leading. He is so popular and valued that he reached the top five in Wanderlust magazine’s world-wide Guide of the Year 2009 award. His knowledge of his country and its history is boundless and he passes it on in an engaging manner.

Duncan GriffinHaving travelled extensively around the world, Duncan fell for South America as his favourite continent. He has accumulated a wealth of experience in 14 years of tour-leading for us which he happily shares with his group. He currently resides in Lima, Peru, where he runs a hostel.

Daniele BinaghiDaniele picked up the travelling bug several years ago, packed in his job as an IT solution developer and hasn't looked back. He has travelled everywhere in South America, from the cold plains of Tierra del Fuego, through the forests of Brazil to the coast of the Guianas and has recently begun his discovery of Central America. So superb has his leading been over the last few years that he made the final of Wanderlust magazine Guide of the Year award for 2014. Jessica de Gier

After finishing her studies in the 90s, Dutch-born Jessica travelled to Peru to learn Spanish and undertake voluntary work in the Amazonian jungle. She immediately fell in love with the Latin American landscapes, wildlife and nature, and decided to stay just a little longer. Now, getting on for two decades later, Jessica has lived and worked in both South and Central America, and spends her downtime residing in Mexico City.

Berner TorrresPeruvian Berner has been leading trips with JLA for 18 years, during which time he has become an expert tour leader in all respects. His enthusiasm, passion and extensive knowledge for his country is unmatched and infectious. His new found passion for photography is an asset which will help you with that perfect Kodak moment!

JESSICA WAS BY FAR THE BEST TOUR LEADER I HAVE HAD ON ANY GROUP TOUR. SHE WAS FUN, WELL ORGANISED, INCREDIBLY KNOWLEDGEABLE, PATIENT, AUTHORITATIVE WHEN NECESSARY AND ACTUALLY JUST SUPERB ALL ROUND.JR, PLYMOUTH

Every year we find yet more in Latin America for you to enjoy. We pride ourselves on having the most comprehensive and wide-ranging selection of tours available from any UK tour operator. On the following pages, you’ll find new journeys as well as old favourites.

All of our group holidays are designed to embrace the ideas, expectations and preferences of those who have travelled with us over 40 years, and to cater for travellers of different nationalities, ages, tastes and budgets.

Our tours introduce you to the ruined cities and temples of indigenous empires, the architectural masterpieces of the colonial heritage, and to the tradition and ritual surviving in present day life.

There are opportunities to explore gorgeous landscapes, unfamiliar wildlife, flowers, forests and crops, as well as to join in the fiestas, visit the bars, and listen to the impromptu concerts of a warm and spontaneous people. You may opt to take part in an active adventure: on a hike, a zip-line, a bike ride, or rafting white-water. And there’s always time to shop, wander exciting streets and sample the local cuisine.

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THE STYLE OF OUR GROUP TOURS

EXTENSION

A FEW DAYS TO SPARE?

If you want yet more, we offer a comprehensive choice of optional extensions: luxurious beach wind-downs, relaxing cruises and remote jungles. See the extension pages in this brochure (pp80-85) and yet more on our website.

HOW TO BOOK• We are delighted to speak to you if you wish to make enquiries and book in our office or over the phone. And if you prefer, you can conduct all your business with us by email at [email protected]. Call us on 020 8747 8315 or book online at journeylatinamerica.co.uk

• A deposit of £300 is required to secure your place on the tour. Some services, usually cruises, require a larger deposit.

• Full payment is due 60 days before departure.

• You will receive your final documents approximately 2 weeks before the start of the trip.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE • Journey Latin America is fully government bonded.

• We’ve been trading since 1980 and are closely managed by our founding Directors.

• The air holidays and flights in this brochure are Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing (ATOL) protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 2828. The holidays which fall outside the scope of the ATOL scheme are bonded with the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA); our ABTA number is V2522.

• Journey Latin America is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO), adhering to their strict quality charter.

• We are International Air Transport Association (IATA) accredited and can issue airline tickets on the premises.

We are legally the Tour Organiser for ALL the trips in this brochure and all are actually operated by Journey Latin America. So you may travel secure in the knowledge that your money is safe and your holiday is in capable hands.


Discovery JourneysOur Discovery Journeys offer good quality, value for money holidays which give you an insight into the life, land and history of the continent. Once-remote regions have been opened up by vastly improved road, air and rail transport connections.

We’ll help you to meet the local people, attend fiestas, look in on quirky bars or museums, and take you that one step further to discover something a bit different or off the beaten track. There are frequently opportunities to do something active: hike, ride a horse or bike, or even trek on a glacier.

We’ve chosen mid-range, accommodation, usually small-scale and often family-run. Our transport (mostly private) is as swift and reliable as conditions allow, and our excursions are led by our trained leaders or expert local guides.

Classic JourneysSuch have been the developments in Latin America in recent years that it is now possible to offer tours visiting the highlights of virtually all its countries in complete comfort. Hotels with excellent service and facilities are being opened every year and we will take you to the best of them.

Nowadays there are many good, paved roads, luxury trains and comprehensive local flight networks. We use comfortable, safe vehicles with conscientious drivers to take you from place to place. You’ll be eating well too: our tour leader will take you to restaurants offering great food and regional wines wherever they exist.

With their superb local knowledge and all the best kept secrets, our tour leaders will lead you on a Latin American adventure filled with comfort and style.

THE TOUR WAS OBVIOUSLY WELL ORGANISED AND STRUCTURED, BUT IT NEVER FELT RIGID, THERE WAS THE FLEXIBILITY TO DO YOUR OWN THING IF YOU WANTED TO, AND ENOUGH ‘FREE’ TIME TO GO OFF AND EXPLORE, OR JUST SIT AND ENJOY A COFFEE. THE OPTIONAL TRIPS WERE VARIED AND REASONABLY PRICED, AND REFRESHINGLY THERE WAS NO HARD SELL OR PRESSURE TO JOIN THESE TRIPS. A TRULY WONDERFUL JOURNEY. MD, STAFFORD

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THE WHOLE TRIP WAS SUPERB. OUR GUIDE AND ALL THE ARRANGEMENTS WERE VERY EFFICIENTLY MANAGED AND WE WERE PAMPERED ALL THE WAY ROUND, WE DIDN'T HAVE TO DO MUCH THINKING FOR OURSELVES—JUST LISTEN... THERE WAS NEVER A DOUBT IN OUR MINDS THAT ALL WOULD WORK LIKE CLOCKWORK THE WHOLE TIME. OVERALL THE WHOLE TRIP WAS THE BEST EXPERIENCE OF OUR LIVES... SO FAR.RH, WILLINGDALE



DISCOVERY OR CLASSIC JOURNEY?

GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY WITH CLEAN AND COMFORTABLE ACCOMMODATION. TW, CANADA

EVERYTHING, FROM THE PLANNING, THROUGH TO THE ACTUAL JOURNEY, WAS EXCELLENTLY ARRANGED. ALL CONNECTIONS WERE SMOOTH AND PUNCTUAL AND THERE WAS DETAILED INFORMATION DISSEMINATED AT EVERY STAGE. DH, TUFNELL PARK

THE STYLE OF DISCOVERY JOURNEYS SMALL GROUP HOLIDAY

THE STYLE OF CLASSIC JOURNEYS SUPERIOR SMALL GROUP HOLIDAYS

See pages 12-47 See pages 48-79

The right holiday for youWith our experience, we can identify the right Journey for you.

If you’d like a group tour which is very comfortable, with top class hotels and private transport and excursions, choose from our Classic Journeys collection.

If you’d prefer a tour with more modest comfort and where value for money is a priority, which may venture further off the beaten track, see our Discovery Journeys pages.

Should you prefer a pre-designed private journey, or for us to tailor-make something just for you, speak to one of our experts or visit our website.

The benefits of group travelFor a price comparable with that of a tailor-made holiday, you can enjoy the additional benefits of a full-time tour leader, companionship on excursions, at mealtimes and during evening entertainment, and a hassle-free holiday where every practical arrangement is taken care of. These are holidays with a grown-up attitude: you can spend your money as you see fit.

MealsBreakfast is included daily on most journeys; other pre-paid meals arenoted on the holiday pages. The tour leader accompanies the group to an evening meal on most days. We try to avoid the obvious tourist traps. You pay for what you eat, there’s no kitty system; and of course you can eat independently if preferred.

TransportFor all road journeys on Classic Journeys we use private coaches, modern minibuses or cars, hired through reputable local firms and inspected by our staff. These are air-conditioned or heated where appropriate. Many of these journeys are short and scenic.

Discovery Journeys use a mix of public and private road transport. There are some routes along which private transport is not available and here the most reliable public services are used. Many local airlines are excellent, flying modern jet aircraft. (Rarely, circumstances may oblige us to make last-minute changes to a mode of transport or to the timing of it.)

ExcursionsThere are two types of excursions on group Journeys:Included excursions: These you will have pre-paid in the holiday price, and they are either led by your tour leader or, where specialist information is desirable, a local guide; usually as an exclusive group. City tours: In some towns and cities, we offer an orientation walking tour led by our tour leader. Elsewhere where local expertise and knowledge will truly add to your enjoyment, we include a tour led by a qualified local guide. Entrance fees and any taxes are included, but not tips or gratuities.Optional excursions: Not all excursions on offer will suit everyone in the group. For this reason, and to give the option of

more free time for those who want it, we have not costed optional excursions into your holiday. Usually you won’t need to book them in advance of your arrival. We can provide information and you will pay and book them locally through your tour leader.

Joining the trip alone?There is no extra to pay if you are willing to share with another person of the same sex: if there is no sharer available you will still pay no more. If you’d prefer a single room a supplement is charged (see the holiday pages). We may charge a single supplement on any Journey if you book within one month of departure.

Private groupsIf you wish to travel on any of our Journeys as a group exclusive of other travellers, we can organise your trip on the dates you prefer. You’ll have a tour leader throughout and the holiday will be the same as for our regular tours and since your group is exclusive we can make any changes you might prefer.

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THIS IS THE THIRD YEAR THAT WE’VE TRAVELLED WITH JOURNEY LATIN AMERICA AND EACH TIME IT IS WELL ORGANISED FROM START TO FINISH. WE HAVE HAD THREE BRILLIANT TRIPS. JH, RADSTOCK


THE SPECIFICS


Take the familyAll our itineraries are open to families with children of 12 years old and over. Some trips are more appropriate than others for youngsters; we will be happy to advise you.

Essential information

Inclusive price (per person based on two sharing a twin room): Includes international flights (from/to UK), Journey Latin America tour leader or, very occasionally, local leaders, all domestic flights, and hotel transfers for international flights upon arrival/departure on the first/last day of the journey. Also included is tour transport, accommodation, meals as specified in the itinerary, entrance fees on included excursions and Latin American flight taxes. If you have bought your tour inclusive of international flights your taxes are also included (a few Latin American international airport departure taxes must be paid locally).

Not included: Meals other thanspecified, drinks, optional excursions, transfers for arrival/departure on days outside the first/last day of the Journey and for domestic flights. Of course we can

arrange for transfers from domestic flights or on different dates but these will be charged separately.No local payment: You’ll be in control of your spending for meals, drinks, optional excursions and tips.Transcontinental flightsWe recognise that many of our clients will wish to choose their airline, route and travel dates, or be joining us from somewhere outside the UK. For this reason we also quote a price excluding UK return flights. For those joining from the UK, we have nominated a preferred flight for your Journey. Should this not be available, or not be convenient for you, we will make alternative flight arrangements, but this may cost more.

Price changesRarely, prices are modified during the life of this brochure, usually due to currency fluctuations. In this case, the prices shown on our website will be correct.

Group sizeTo minimise the effect on the environment and local communities, and to create a group dynamic which is neither too anonymous nor too intimate, our journeys run with a minimum of 4 and maximum of 20 guests. On average they travel with 8-12. Small groups allow for both privacy and compromise, enable greater flexibility and help us cater for individuals’ particular interests.By guaranteeing a departure when the number of booked clients reaches just four, we can let you know well in advance that your tour will run.

Group profileThe group profile varies widely. Generally half our clients join us as singles, the rest as couples, friends or, occasionally, families. There are no upper age restrictions (clients aged 70 or over are requested to complete a self-certification form, please see booking conditions, page 89).

THERE ARE TWO THINGS THAT WE MOST APPRECIATE ABOUT THE TOURS ORGANISED BY JOURNEY LATIN AMERICA, ONE IS THE RESTRICTED SIZE OF THE GROUPS AND THE OTHER IS THE QUALITY OF THE LEADERS. AF, ALDERLEY EDGE

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OVERALL IT WAS A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY AS WELL AS AN EXPERIENCE. ALL THE ARRANGEMENTS CONNECTED WELL TOGETHER, IN PARTICULAR THE ADDITIONAL WEEK WHEN WE WERE MORE ON OUR OWN SO THE FACT THAT IT ALL WORKED TO PLAN IS A GREAT RECOMMENDATION FOR JLA. ALL THE STAFF AND GUIDES THAT WE MET BEFORE AND DURING THE HOLIDAY WERE A CREDIT TO YOUR ORGANISATION AND I’D HAVE NO HESITATION IN RECOMMENDING YOU TO OTHERS, OR TRAVELLING WITH YOU AGAIN.DB , ADDLESTONE



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THE TWO TRIPS THAT I HAVE TAKEN WITH JLA HAVE BEEN EXCELLENT. THE TOUR MANAGERS HAVE BEEN VERY FRIENDLY, MAKING THE TRIPS FEEL MORE LIKE A FAMILY OUTING RATHER THAN A GUIDED TOUR, AS WITH OTHER COMPANIES I HAVE TRAVELLED WITH.AF, ENNISKILLEN

Isla del Pescado at Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia.

DISCOVERYJOURNEYS

PHOTOGRAPH:STARCEVIC/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Code Starts UK Ends UK Price Exc. flights Inc. flights

PH2021 06 Feb 20 21 Feb 20 £2,798 £3,598PH2022 09 Apr 20 24 Apr 20 £2,798 £3,866PH2023 12 Nov 20 27 Nov 20 £2,998 £3,828PH2024 17 Dec 20 01 Jan 21 £2,998 £4,048

Please note that the dates above are for UK departure, and UK arrival: some tours may use overnight flights on the way out to Latin America, and some may use daytime flights. If you would like to arrange your own flights please contact us beforehand so we can advise and ensure you book the correct dates.

Single supplement: £411Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: please enquire with one of our consultants.

•

CUBA

Sierra Maestra

Havana•

CARIBBEAN SEA

GULF OF MEXICO

Santiago de Cuba

• Bayamo

•Trinidad

• BaracoaCamagüey •

• Viñales

• Santa Clara

...LOOKING AT OTHER GROUPS WE MET ON THE HOLIDAY I FELT OUR EXPERIENCE WAS MORE AUTHENTIC. ON MY RETURN I WANTED TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FIDEL, RAUL AND THE TRIUMPH OF THE REVOLUTION! IF YOU WANT TO GET TO KNOW CUBA IN AS MUCH AS ANYONE CAN IN A FORTNIGHT, THIS IS THE TRIP FOR YOU.JE, DURHAM

UK clients depart on a direct flight arriving Havana, Cuba, same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in the capital.Days 2,3 Fly to Cuba’s remote southeast coast and drive to Baracoa, a sleepy colonial town that was isolated from the rest of the country until the 1960s. There is an excursion down the beautiful Toa River, passing through gorges and alongside coconut lined banks. Days 4,5 Drive to Santiago de Cuba in the east of the island.

An Afro-Caribbean feel and a jumble of architectural styles preside. Excursion to Moncada barracks, stormed by Castro in 1953, now a museum about the revolution.Day 6 Private bus to Bayamo, the birthplace of Cuban independence, untouched by tourism. Tour of the city.Day 7 Excursion into the mountains of the Sierra Maestra, hike up to the Comandancia de la Plata, Castro’s hideout during the Revolution.

Transport 1 flight (1½hrs); 7 road journeys all by private vehicle (longest 9hrs with stop en route).

Accommodation Simple hotels with private bathrooms and private homes, some with shared facilities.

Meals Breakfast daily, lunch days 3 & 7 and dinner days 9 & 11.

Included excursions • Toa River tour in Baracoa• Moncada barracks in Santiago• Bayamo guided city tour• Trek to Fidel’s hideout in Sierra Maestra• Sugar Mill Valley near Trinidad• Guided walking tour of Trinidad• Tour of Santa Clara and Che

mausoleum• Guided walk through Viñales Valley• Havana guided city tour

Summary of nights Havana 1; Baracoa 2; Santiago 2; Bayamo 1; Sierra Maestra 1; Camagüey 1; Trinidad 2; Viñales 2; Havana 2.

Group size Min 4, max 16. Led by a local tour leader.

14 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » CUBA

CUBA IS A FASCINATING COUNTRY AND JLA HAVE PULLED TOGETHER A FANTASTIC TRIP WITH EXCELLENT LOCAL GUIDES. IT EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS AND I DO HOPE TO RETURN ONE DAY.AES, EASTBOURNE

Above: Spot Havana’s iconic vintage cars all over the city.

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Day 8 Drive to Camagüey, famous for its ballet and music.Days 9,10 Continue by road to Trinidad, Cuba’s most perfectly preserved town, the honey and ochre tones of its mansions and palaces evoking the richness of its colonial past. Optional excursions to unwind on a dazzling chalk-white beach, or hike in the lush Escambray mountains. Day 11 Private bus to Viñales. En route stop at Santa Clara to visit Che Guevara’s mausoleum. Day 12 Explore Viñales, a pretty town in the Sierra de los Organos. Walks in the fertile valley of fruit and tobacco plantations, featuring fairy-tale limestone mogotes. Day 13 Travel back to Havana via Las Terrazas, a biosphere reserve set among coffee plantations.Day 14 Today there is a guided tour of the capital an extraordinary city of antiquated Cadillacs, cobbled plazas and alleys lined with crumbling mansions.Day 15 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

JOURNEY ROUTE JOURNEY PROFILE DEPARTURE DATES AND PRICES

PARAKEET DISCOVERY JOURNEY

15 DAYS, 14 NIGHTS More than a dip in the Caribbean and a few mojitos. A behind the scenes exploration of Cuba’s unique society and scenery. A culturally rich island: fascinating history and irresistible music. Fidel Castro’s pre-Revolution hideout in the Sierra Maestra mountains. Accommodation and great food with local people in their family homes. Cobbled, colonial Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

CUBA BEYOND THE BEACH

EXTENSION


Extend your stay with a few days on the white sand beaches of Cuba’s coast. Warm waves and excellent seafood will help you unwind!

For full details see extensions p81.


Left: The colonial charm and unhurried atmosphere of Trinidad make it one of Latin America’s best historical cities.

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Above: The countryside in Viñales: lush crops, tobacco fields and limestone mogotes.

Right: Santiago de Cuba: the country’s frenetic second city – where music is never far away.

Far right: Admire the picturesque colonial style of the Gran Teatro de La Habana.

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AP2021 04 Jan 20 26 Jan 20 £2,938 £3,790AP2022 15 Feb 20 08 Mar 20 £2,938 £3,790AP2023‡ 21 Mar 20 13 Apr 20 £3,109 £3,961AP2024 25 Apr 20 17 May 20 £2,938 £3,790AP2025 01 Aug 20 23 Aug 20 £2,938 £3,858AP2026 17 Oct 20 08 Nov 20 £2,938 £3,769AP2027 14 Nov 20 06 Dec 20 £2,938 £3,790AP2028 12 Dec 20 03 Jan 21 £2,938 £3,790

Please note that the dates above are for UK departure, and UK arrival: some tours may use overnight flights on the way out to Latin America, and some may use daytime flights. If you would like to arrange your own flights please contact us beforehand so we can advise and ensure you book the correct dates.‡ AP2023 Coincides with Easter celebrations in Antigua, therefore this departure has 1 extra night in Antigua.

Single supplement: £728 (AP2023 £921, AP2028 £775)Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

CARIBBEAN SEA

PanamaCity

PACIFIC OCEAN

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PANAMA

COSTA RICA

HONDURASGUATEMALA

NICARAGUA

Sarapiquí

Granada

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Lake Nicaragua

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Guatemala City

BELIZE

•Bocas del Toro•

•Antigua

Monteverde

•Boquete

••León

•

MEXICO

v Copán

EL SALVADOR

Suchitoto

ALCION DISCOVERY JOURNEY

22 DAYS, 21 NIGHTS 6 countries in 3 weeks! Start alongside the awesome Panama Canal. Coral reefs and lush tropical islands of Bocas del Toro. Profusion of wildlife in the Costa Rican cloud forest. El Salvador’s unsung colonial beauty and volcanic landscape. Ometepe, magical island of calm on Lake Nicaragua. Colonial cities of Granada, León and Antigua—evocative and unspoilt. Copán, majestic Mayan ruins rising from the jungles of Honduras.

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UK clients depart arriving Panama City the same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in the capital.Day 2 Guided tour of Panama City, including visit to Miraflores Docks on the canal.Day 3 By bus along the Panamerican highway to Boquete in coffee-growing country, base for optional horse riding, bird watching or visits to hot springs.Days 4,5 Beautiful mountain bus ride northwards to the tropical Caribbean coast, and ferry to the densely-forested archipelago of Bocas del Toro and Colón Island. Snorkel on the nearby coral reefs and explore the Bastimentos National Marine Park.Days 6,7 Cross the border into Costa Rica and continue north to Sarapiquí. The perfect base for two nights where activities on offer include rafting, traversing hanging bridges, hiking or just relaxing in the rainforest setting.Days 8,9 Drive to the Monteverde National Park cloud forest, home of the Resplendent quetzal, the national bird of Guatemala.

Guided tour of the park and optional visit to a butterfly farm.Days 10-12 Short ferry ride from the shores of Lake Nicaragua to volcanic Ometepe Island: a laid-back, rural idyll. Explore the twin volcanoes, prolific wildlife, and pre-Columbian artefacts. Opportunities for country walks, bike rides, bird watching and relaxation. Days 13,14 By bus to elegant, colonial Granada, still relatively untouched by tourism. Walking tour of Granada and excursion to the volcanic craters of Masaya National Park. Day 15 Drive to León, another colonial gem. Optional tour to view the ruined buildings of the original site of the town, Léon Viejo, or to the Pacific coast. Days 16,17 Drive into tiny, volcanic El Salvador, still rarely visited but now a tranquil country welcoming visitors. Suchitoto is a cobblestone colonial town, proud of its heritage and with a buzzing arts scene. Time to explore on a guided walking tour.

Days 18,19 Drive to Mayan Copán. The impressive ruined temples and pyramids are noted for their exquisite carvings. Tour of the ruins. Overnight in a nearby village.Days 20,21 By bumpy road across the border to Guatemala and on to Antigua, a lively colonial town full of charming old houses, pretty squares, bars, shops and restaurants. Guided walking tour.Day 22 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 10 road journeys (longest 8hrs), most including stops.

Accommodation A variety of simple hotels and guesthouses, several with authentic character.

Meals Breakfast daily.

Included excursions • Panama City tour, including canal• Tour of nature reserve in Monteverde• Ometepe Island tour• Masaya Volcano National Park• Walking tour of Granada• Guided tour of Suchitoto• Explore Copán ruins• Guided tour of Antigua

Summary of nights Panama City 2; Boquete 1; Bocas del Toro 2; Sarapiquí 2; Monteverde 2; Ometepe 3; Granada 2; León 1. Suchitoto 2; Copán 2; Antigua 2.

Group size Min 4, max 20. Led by Journey Latin America tour leader.

16 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » PANAMA » COSTA RICA » NICARAGUA » EL SALVADOR » HONDURAS » GUATEMALA

Above: The Resplendent Quetzal might be the national bird of Guatemala but it can also be spotted across other Central American countries.

CENTRAL AMERICA DISCOVERY


EXTENSION


End your exciting Central America itinerary with a few days on the shores of Lake Atitlán or at the ruins at Tikal.



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THE ALCION WAS FANTASTIC, AND PACKED A HUGE AMOUNT IN JUST OVER THREE WEEKS. THE ROUTE OF THE TOUR, THE PLANNED AND EXTRA ACTIVITIES, AND ABOVE ALL THE KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE OF OUR GUIDE, MADE FOR AN AMAZING CENTRAL AMERICAN EXPERIENCE. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. DS, WORCESTER PARK

Above: Although a cosmopolitan city, Panama City’s Casco Viejo district has maintained its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. Left: Vibrant outdoor markets are commonplace across Guatemala. Below left: The Mayan ruins at Copán are among Central America’s most important and impressive. Right: Ometepe Island was formed by two volcanoes, Concepción and Maderas, rising from Lake Nicaragua.

A REALLY INTERESTING, VARIED AND CONTRASTING TOUR ENCAPSULATING THE SPIRIT AND CULTURE OF THE REGION. EXCELLENT VALUE AND MADE EVEN MORE ENJOYABLE BY A FANTASTIC TOUR LEADER.RG, BISHOPTON

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NM2021 01 Apr 20 19 Apr 20 £2,868 £3,735NM2022 02 Dec 20 20 Dec 20 £2,868 £3,735


Single supplement: £495Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

PACIFIC OCEAN

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Managua

•Dolores

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CornIslands

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El Castillo

NICARAGUA

COSTA RICA

SolentinameIslands

Ometepe

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GranadaLeón•

Lake Nicaragua

UK clients depart arriving Managua, Nicaragua, the same day Day 1 Overnight at a countryside boutique hotel.Day 2 At leisure on the property: take a tour of the environmentally-friendly coffee plantation; explore flowery trails through the bird-filled grounds; pop in to the nearby village Dolores.Day 3 Drive to San Jorge on Lago Nicaragua a vast freshwater lake with a magnificent history of buccaneers and piracy. Take the public ferry to tranquil Ometepe Island, where the fertile slopes of two conical volcanoes are dotted with plantations of tropical fruits.Days 4,5 At leisure to explore. The island has a long history. You may visit the pre-Columbian Museum, discover the 200 howler monkeys at the Charco Verde Nature Reserve, take a guided climb of one of the volcanoes or laze on the palm-shaded beach.Day 6 Return to the mainland and Granada, oldest city of the Americas with a history of wealth and piracy. Guided tour of this romantic city: colonial grace preserved in aspic.

Day 7 Guided night excursion to the crater of Masaya volcano and the craft market at Masaya.Days 8,9 By boat to the rainforested Solentiname archipelago, famous for its birdlife and a unique school of primitivist art. Guided boat trip around the islands and wildlife-packed Los Guatuzos Nature Reserve. Day 10 By boat along Rio San Juan which connects Lake Nicaragua with the Caribbean Sea. It’s a peaceful waterway flanked by fields giving way to thick tropical jungle. Arrive at the tiny riverport El Castillo, with a Spanish fortress built to repel pirates which was briefly held by Lord Nelson. Day 11 Guided discovery of the Indio Maiz Reserve, devoted to conservation, looking out for poison dart frogs, white-faced monkeys and river otters.Day 12 Return to Managua by boat and road.Day 13 Fly to the English-speaking Corn islands in the Caribbean Sea. These two exquisite coral islands, indented with rocky bays and sparkling beaches shaded by coconut palms, take you back to

the Caribbean of the 1950s.Days 14,15 At leisure on Big Corn: walk around the coast, snorkel, explore the rugged interior or just relax on the snow-white beach.Days 16,17 Return to Managua and transfer to León. Renowned for its rebellious history, there is a guided tour of this university town and time to venture to the Pacific coast or the ruins at León Viejo. Day 18 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 7 road journeys; 6 boat journeys; 2 domestic flights.

Accommodation Mostly small, family-run hotels.


Included excursions • Guided tour of Granada• Masaya Volcano by night• Masaya market• Tour of Los Guatuzos Wildlife Reserve• Tour of Indio Maiz Nature Reserve• Walking tour of León

Summary of nights Dolores 2; Ometepe 3; Granada 2; Solentiname 2; El Castillo 2; Managua 1; Corn Islands 3; León 2.


18 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » NICARAGUA

Below: Poison Dart Frog in the Indio Maiz Reserve.

Above: Mother and baby howler monkey.

Right: Big Corn Island has a distinctly Caribbean flavour.

Far right: Ometepe’s name derives from the Nahuatl words ‘ome’ (two) and ‘tepetl’ (mountain): “Two Mountains”.

COTINGA DISCOVERY JOURNEY

18 DAYS, 17 NIGHTS Restored colonial cities of León and Granada. The volcanoes of unspoilt Ometepe Island. Art on the remote Solentiname islands, Lake Nicaragua. Prolific wildlife of Los Guatuzos Wildlife Refuge. The secrets of Rio San Juan: forts, rapids and villages on stilts. Big Corn, a laid-back, quirky Caribbean island.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK NICARAGUA


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Right: Hiking up one of Nicaragua’s many volcanoes provides a beautiful view of the country.

Below: Our Lady of Grace Cathedral is the largest in Central America, and took over a century to build.


Only have 2 weeks to travel?? We offer the option to leave the tour on Day 13 when the group flies to the Corn Islands. Please enquire for details and prices.



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HIGHLIGHTS? LOOKING INTO THE BOILING CAULDRON OF MAGMA IN THE VOLCANO AT NATIONAL VOLCAN MASAYA. NOT MANY PEOPLE WILL HAVE SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE. IT SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE 7 NEW WONDERS OF THE EARTH. JC, DORKING

PACIFIC OCEAN

San José

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COSTA RICA

NICARAGUA

TortugueroRio Celeste

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•Sarapiqui•

•Monteverde

•Carara


TJ2021 11 Feb 20 23 Feb 20 £2,897 £3,768 TJ2022 24 Mar 20 05 Apr 20 £2,897 £3,684 TJ2023 24 Nov 20 06 Dec 20 £2,897 £3,632



20 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » COSTA RICA

UK clients depart on a daytime flight arriving in San José, Costa Rica, early on the afternoon of day 1.Day 1 On arrival transfer to your hotel in downtown San José.Days 2,3 By road and boat to Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast. Spend time exploring the canals that crisscross the dense jungles and mangrove swamps and learning about the turtle conservation work that the region is famous for. Days 4,5 Travel back inland to Sarapiquí. Take guided walks through national parks and rainforest reserves that sit amongst banana and pineapple plantations. For the more adventurous the region offers fantastic rafting, tubing and boating opportunities.Day 6 Journey further west to the area around the small farming community of Bijagua, where verdant hills and green forests offer up stunning rural views.

Day 7 Hike on trails through the Tenorio Volcano National Park to the stunning blue-hued Rio Celeste, that cuts through the trees. Follow the banks searching for monkeys and sloths, past impressive waterfalls to the confluence of the river. Days 8,9 By boat across the Arenal Lake and Onwards by road to the famous cloud forests of Monteverde.

Day 10 Set off along the Pacific coast, stopping en route to hone your cooking skills at a local finca and later to view the huge colony of crocodiles that call the Tárcoles river home. Arrive in Carara your base for 2 nights.Day 11 Free last day to take advantage of what Carara has to offer – explore the nearby national park, get your camera and binoculars out for some bird spotting or simply relax and take in the sounds of the jungle.Day 12 Extend your trip down the coast or return to San José and depart for your international flight.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport All journeys by private vehicles and boats. Travelling days between 2-4hrs.

Accommodation Downtown hotel in San Jose and selection of mid-range lodges throughout.

Meals Breakfast daily; Dinner days 5,6,7 and 11; Full Board days 2,3,4,7 and 10.

Included excursions • Boat trip on Tortuguero canals• Turtle conservation lecture• Nature walk in Tirimbina Reserve• Tenorio Volcano National Park• Rio Celeste hike• Selvatura hanging bridges• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve• Cooking class at local finca

Summary of nights San Jose 1; Tortuguero 2; Sarapiqui 2; Rio Celeste 2; Monteverde 2; Carara 2.

Group size Min 4, max 20. Led by a local leader throughout.


FLORA AND FAUNA OF COSTA RICA

TANAGER DISCOVERY JOURNEY

12 DAYS, 11 NIGHTS A small country with huge biodiversity. Discover the flora and fauna of 5 distinct regions. Jungle canals of the Caribbean coast at tropical Tortuguero National Park. Home to turtle conservation centres. Wonderful forested national parks of unspoilt Sarapiquí National Park dispersed between banana and pineapple plantations. Rio Celeste, a sky blue river penetrating deep rainforest home to monkeys and sloths. Famous cloud forests of Monteverde – crammed with 2,500 varieties of plant and 400 species of bird. Endangered and threatened bird and mammal species of little known Carara.

EXTENSION


Extend your stay with a few days in the Manuel Antonio National Park, where the lush jungle meets the pristine Pacific Ocean.

Please enquire for more details.

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Right: Rio Celeste waterfall is famous for it’s vibrant turquoise colour.

Below: Tortuguero National Park is best explored by water.

Above: The hanging bridges of Arenal trace a 3km nature trail through lush primary forest.

Far left: Costa Rica is home to 51 of the 300 hummingbird species, making it the hummingbird capital of the world.

Left: Red-eyed tree frog in Monteverde cloudforest.



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A SUPERB HOLIDAY FOR THOSE WITH AN INTEREST IN WILDLIFE AND ENVIRONMENT. IT IS INTENSE, BUT THIS RESULTS IN A HIGHLY REWARDING EXPERIENCE. THE WHOLE HOLIDAY WAS GREATLY ENHANCES BY HAVING A SINGLE GUIDE THROUGHOUT, WHO HAD EXTENSIVE LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE.SRT, YORK


WB2021 10 Jan 20 27 Jan 20 £2,535 £3,454WB2022 21 Feb 20 09 Mar 20 £2,535 £3,454WB2023 20 Mar 20 06 Apr 20 £2,535 £3,454WB2024 10 Apr 20 27 Apr 20 £2,535 £3,454WB2025 07 Aug 20 24 Aug 20 £2,535 £3,604WB2026 09 Oct 20 26 Oct 20 £2,535 £3,454WB2027 11 Dec 20 28 Dec 20 £2,535 £3,454




COLOMBIA

Armenia

CARIBBEAN SEA

•Bogotá•

•Cartagena

TayronaNational Park

•Neiva•San Agustín

•Mompós

•Aracataca •Santa Marta

VENEZUELA

•Popayán

UK clients depart on overnight flight arriving in Bogotá, Colombia, early on the morning of day 1.Day 1 City tour, including a visit to the world famous Gold Museum. Day 2 Optional excursion to the salt cathedral at Zipaquirá.Day 3 Fly from Bogotá to Neiva and continue by road to San Agustín.Day 4 Full day in the archaeological park.Day 5 Optional jeep tour to the Magdalena river gorge.Day 6 By road for a delightful overnight stop at once again accessible Popayán.

Days 7-9 Continue by road to a finca in the rolling hills of the coffee cultivation region. Here we will learn about the processes behind coffee production, as well as visit the famous wax palms of the Corcora Valley and the bucolic village of Salento. Days 10-11 Fly to Santa Marta, South America’s oldest city and the historical home of Simón Bolívar. Spend a day amid the coconut palms and glorious beaches of the Tayrona National Park.Day 12 Drive inland stopping at riverside Aracataca. The town

founded amongst banana plantations, is the birthplace of Gabriel García Márquez. Stop to visit the museum celebrating his life. Continue onto Mompós.Day 13 Mompós lies on the wide Magdalena river and its relative isolation has helped to preserve its sleepy colonial character. Excursion by boat to explore life along the river’s banks. Days 14-15 Continue by road and boat to Cartagena: guided tour of one of the Caribbean’s most exotic and romantic colonial cities. Explore ancient walls, forts and castles, graceful churches and ochre-walled monasteries. Enjoy tropical fruits, sunlit cobbled streets and the joyous salsa music that emanates from every corner.Day 16 Drive to airport, fly to Bogotá. Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 3 flights (longest 3½hrs); 8 road journeys (longest 8hrs including stops); 1 boat journey (2hrs).

Accommodation Small hotels and guesthouses with private bathrooms and authentic character. Finca accommodation in Coffee region.


Included excursions • Tour of Bogotá with gold museum• San Agustín Archaeological Park• Tour of Magdalena river gorge• Trip to Corcora Valley and Salento• Tour of a coffee farm• Explore Tayrona National Park• Gabriel Garcia Márquez museum• Boat trip from Mompós• Guided tour of Cartagena

Summary of nights Bogotá 2; San Agustín 3; Popayán 1; coffee farm 3; Santa Marta 2; Mompós 2; Cartagena 2.

Group Size Min 4, max 16. Led by Journey Latin America tour leader.

22 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » COLOMBIA

WEAVERBIRD DISCOVERY JOURNEY

16 DAYS, 15 NIGHTS Off-the-beaten track journey for the adventurous of spirit. Beautiful, varied, friendly and politically stabalised country. Experience newly opened regions such as Popáyan. Mysterious archaeological park at San Agustín. A farm-stay in Colombia’s bucolic coffee country. Santa Marta the birthplace of Bolivar and the Caribbean beaches of Tayrona National Park. Mompós, charming colonial secret on a river island. Glorious mansions, forts and beguiling streets in historic Cartagena.

SPIRIT OF COLOMBIA

EXTENSION


Add a couple of days at the beginning or end to visit the tranquil, cobbled street town of Villa de Leiva.

Please enquire for details

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Left: Tayrona National Park.

IT IS AN ITINERARY WHICH COVERS DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTS AND ALLOWS INTERACTION WITH THE WONDERFUL COLOMBIAN PEOPLE PLUS TIME TO SEE WHAT IS IN EACH PLACE. BD, HARTLEPOOL

Right: At around 1,500m the coffee region has an agreeable climate and good opportunities for walking and bird watching.

COLOMBIA IS A DIVERSE, BEAUTIFUL, VIBRANT AND AMAZING COUNTRY TO VISIT. I FELT WELCOMED AND SAFE AT ALL TIMES, COLOMBIA’S PEOPLE ARE EAGERLY WAITING TO SHARE THEIR CULTURE AND COUNTRY WITH THOSE WHO CARE TO VISIT.LH, WANGARA, AUSTRALIA



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Above: Cartagena – a colonial jewel on the Caribbean coast, with stunning architecture and colourful buildings.

Below: The Colombian people are warm, welcoming and outgoing.


CP2021 04 Oct 20 22 Oct 20 £4,667 £5,675 CP2021* 06 Oct 20 22 Oct 20 £3,882 £4,827*If the tour can’t travel to Venezuela Please note that the dates above are for UK departure, and UK arrival: some tours may use overnight flights on the way out to Latin America, and some may use daytime flights. If you would like to arrange your own flights please contact us beforehand so we can advise and ensure you book the correct dates.

Single supplement: £777 (these are limited, so please enquire for availability) Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices. 2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.


Caracas

CARIBBEAN SEA

BRAZIL

GUYANA

SURINAME

FRENCH GUIANA

Puerto Ordaz

Angel Falls

Santa Elena

RORAIMA

Boa Vista RockView

Atta Kourou

GeorgetownParamaribo

Cayenne

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VENEZUELA

24 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » VENEZUELA » BRAZIL » GUYANA » SURINAME » FRENCH GUIANA

VENEZUELAThe ongoing political situation in Venezuela means that the FCO may advise against travel to the country. We will still run the remainder of the tour through the Guiana’s so please enquire with us about the current situation and the alternative plans if necessary.

UK clients depart arriving Caracas, Venezuela, the same day.Day 1 Overnight in the capital. Day 2 Fly to Puerto Ordaz on the Orinoco River. Days 3,4 By light aircraft to Canaima National Park. Motorised canoe upstream through the rainforest to the foot of the Angel Falls, which plunges over Auyan Tepui. At 979m the world’s highest single drop falls.Day 5 Fly to Santa Elena, near the Brazilian border. By bus to Boa Vista, Brazil.Day 6 Drive to Guyana. Continue north into the Iwokrama. Jaguars as well as striking bird life, such as the coq-of-the-rock and harpy eagle, have sometimes been sighted among the trees. Spend the night at the Atta Camp. There is a canopy walkway that gives fantastic access to the wildlife.Days 7-8 Travel to Annai and a comfortable lodge in the savannah. Opportunities for bird watching, hikes along nature trails and to relax in the gardens or by the pool.

Day 9 Fly to the capital Georgetown, on the shores of the Demerara river and facing the Caribbean.Day 10 Optional excursion by light aircraft to Kaieteur Falls. Walk through dense jungle, home to vast tank bromeliads, to three viewpoints looking out over the mighty cataracts as they plunge 226m into the canyon below. Day 11 Explore the 19th century streets and markets of Georgetown, including a cathedral that claims to be, at 44m high, the tallest wooden building in the Americas.Day 12 By bus and ferry to Paramaribo, Suriname.Days 13,14 Explore the old town centre of Paramaribo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its white clapboard buildings are a legacy of the colonial Dutch and the mosques and Indonesian cuisine initiatives of the indented labourers shipped in from the Dutch East Indies to work on the plantations. River cruise and visit to one of these former sugar plantations.

Day 15 By bus to Albina, and across the river to St Laurent in Guyane (French Guiana). Continue by road through forest to Kourou, home to the Centre Spatial and the Ariane space programme.Day 16 Full-day excursion by ferry to the îles du Salut, a cluster of 3 islands once home to a notorious penal colony—made famous by the Henri Charriere’s novel Papillon. Explore the remains of the cellblocks, which were abandoned to the rainforest in 1953.Day 17 Excursion to the Centre Spatial. By road to Cayenne on the Caribbean coast. A small, bustling town, its architecture a lively mixture of belle époque and corrugated iron.Day 18 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Below: The Guianan coq-of-the-rock male has a distinctive bright orange plumage.

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COQ OF THE ROCK DISCOVERY JOURNEY

18 DAYS, 17 NIGHTS Unsung jungles, cataracts and colonial gems of Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana. Angel Falls—the highest single drop falls in the world. Canopy walkway in the protected forest of Atta, Guyana. Colonial charm in Georgetown, Guyana and Paramaribo, Suriname. Cellblocks of an old penal colony, now reclaimed by boisterous jungle, in the Îles du Salut, French Guiana. Kaieteur Falls: mesmeric cataracts tumble into dense jungle—an optional excursion.

Transport 4 flights (1hr each); 6 land journeys (longest 7hrs); 2 motorised canoe trips; 2 sea crossings; 2 river ferries.

Accommodation Simple hotels, basic lodges in Guyana and 1 night in a hammock at the base of the Angel Falls.

Meals Breakfast daily; dinner day 5; full board days 3,4,7,8,9.

Included excursions • Caracas city tour • Angel Falls by river • Excursions at Rock View and Atta • Georgetown city tour • River cruise from Paramaribo and

visit to former sugar plantation• Kourou Space Station• Îles du Salut

Summary of nights Caracas 1; Puerto Ordaz 1; Canaima 1; Angel Falls 1; Boa Vista 1; Atta 1; Rock View 2; Georgetown 3; Paramaribo 3; Kourou 2; Cayenne 1.


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Below: The elusive jaguar.

TRAILBLAZING THE GUIANAS



Left: The Angel Falls plunging over a vertical cliff in a single veil of spray.

Top: Georgetown: a little piece of Britain in South America – you may even find a game of cricket being played!

Above: The penal colony of Cayenne, or ‘Devil’s Island’, was a notorious French prison used to incarcerate political prisoners during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Below: The huge wall of water that is the Kaieteur Falls dwarfs Niagara and thunders through thick tropical rainforest.

THE TRIP LIVED UP TO MY EXPECTATIONS. IT’S A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO FOLLOW A LESS TRAVELLED PATH THROUGH THREE COMPLETELY DIFFERENT, BUT FASCINATING COUNTRIES – GUYANA, SURINAME AND FRENCH GUIANA – AND TO EXPERIENCE BEAUTIFUL SCENERY, REMOTE LOCATIONS AND VIBRANT CITIES. WELL DONE JLA FOR ORGANISING THIS TOUR.JB, CHIPPING NORTON

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BALTRA

SANTACRUZ

Quito

ECUADOR

Guayaquil

Cotopaxi National Park

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GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

PACIFIC OCEAN

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TOGALAPAGOSISLANDS

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ISABELAISLAND•PuertoAyora

•Saquisilí

Otavalo•

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FROMGALAPAGOSISLANDS

PuertoVillamil


EQ2021 09 Mar 20 19 Mar 20 £3,260 £4,226 EQ2022 14 Aug 20 24 Aug 20 £3,260 £4,536 EQ2023 13 Nov 20 23 Nov 20 £3,260 £4,358



Transport 2 flights (2hrs each); 5 short scenic road journeys; 2 speedboats in the Galápagos.

Accommodation Mix of mid-range hotels, scenic lodges and a safari style tented camp.

Meals Breakfast daily; Full board days 3-5 and 7-9.

Included excursions • Guided tour of Quito• Visit the Cotopaxi National Park• Saquisilí market and Quilotoa crater• Otavalo market• Kayak the Itabaca Channel• Giant tortoises of Santa Cruz• Tintoreras Islands tour• Hike to the ‘Wall of Tears’• Day of guided walks on Isabela

Summary of nights Quito 2; Chilcabamba 2; Otavalo 1; Quito 1; Santa Cruz 1; Isabela 2.

Group size Min 4, max 14. Led by local guide on the mainland and on each Galápagos island.

26 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » ECUDAOR » GALAPAGOS


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ANDEAN ECUADOR AND ISLAND BASED GALAPAGOS


UK clients depart on daytime flight arriving in Quito, Ecuador, the same day.Days 1,2 Guided exploration of the capitals famous UNESCO colonial centre.Day 3 Journey down the Avenue of Volcanoes, stopping in the shadow of the iconic Cotopaxi mountain to explore the national park and Limpiopungo Lake. Spend 2 nights in a rustic mountain lodge with views of the famous peak.

Day 4 Visit the authentic indigenous market in the town of Saquisilí. Later it is on to the Quilotoa volcano crater, where you can walk along the rim of the mysterious green lake that it now holds.Day 5 Travel north to Otavalo, home of Latin America’s most celebrated market. Spend the night outside the town in a beautiful lodge in the green foothills of Mojanda mountain.

PALOMA DISCOVERY JOURNEY

10 DAYS, 9 NIGHTS Colonial cityscapes of Quito. Travel down the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Cotopaxi mountain. World famous market at Otavalo. Galápagos Island hopping itinerary. Excursions to see landscapes and wildlife of Santa Cruz and Isabela.

Day 6 Travel back to Quito for a last night in the capital.Day 7 Fly to the Galápagos Islands and begin your adventure in the archipelago paddling down the turquoise waters of the Itabaca Channel and visiting the giant tortoises of Santa Cruz. Spend the night in a tented camp situated in the highlands, surrounded by nature and gorgeous views.Day 8 Hop on speedboat and arrive at Isabela Island. After check in at your hotel in Puerto Villamil, visit the Tintoreras Islands – home to sea lions, turtles, rays, penguins and blue footed boobies. An afternoon hike leads you to the ‘Wall of Tears’ spotting birds and iguanas as you go.Day 9 Further exploration of the craters and mars like scenery of the interior of the island. Day 10 Transfer by speedboat and land back to Baltra. Fly to Guayaquil on the mainland and connect and depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Left: As one of the younger island in the Galápagos archipelago, Isabela has a combination of volcanic lava fields and lush green vegetation.

Above: There are three species of land iguanas in the Galápagos, the two yellow species are native to six islands.

Right: One of the Galápagos Islands’ most iconic species, the Giant tortoise makes its home in the highlands and is the largest living species of tortoise.

Far right: Santa Cruz is the second largest island in the archipelago.

EXTENSION


Fly to the Amazon from Quito(1hr) and stay at a jungle lodgefrom which you’ll explore therainforest on foot and by canoe,discovering its tropical flora and fauna.


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Cotopaxi is one of South America’s most popular volcanoes.


CL2021 12 Jan 20 01 Feb 20 £3,294 £4,013CL2022 05 Apr 20 25 Apr 20 £3,294 £4,192CL2023 10 May 20 30 May 20 £3,294 £4,034CL2024 07 Jun 20 27 Jun 20 £3,294 £4,034CL2025 02 Aug 20 22 Aug 20 £3,294 £4,213CL2026 06 Sep 20 26 Sep 20 £3,294 £4,034CL2027 18 Oct 20 07 Nov 20 £3,294 £4,087



LimaPERU

Colca Canyon

Andes

BOLIVIA

BRAZIL

Lake Titicaca

Cusco

MachuPicchu

Puno

Arequipa

Puerto Maldonado

La Paz

PACIFIC OCEAN

•

•

•

••

•

v

Fancy hiking some of the Inca Trail without interrupting your tour? We can organise for you to walk the mini Inca Trail, but still have a guided tour of the ruins and stay with the group in the evenings. Ask us for more details.

HIKE THE INCA TRAIL

28 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » PERU » BOLIVIA

UK clients depart arriving Lima, Peru, the same day.Days 1,2 Arrive in Lima and spend 2 nights at your hotel in the Miraflores district of the capital. There will be time for a walking tour of the centre and visits to museums.Days 3,4 Fly to Arequipa, city of pearly-white stone colonial buildings and flower filled squares. Walking tour of the city including the mini-village of Santa Catalina Convent.Days 5,6 Drive through volcanic scenery to the Colca Canyon, an astonishing region of pre-Inca

terracing and precipitous gorges. Isolation has preserved the vivacity of its traditional communities. Walk along the canyon ridge and spot Andean condors as they rise on the morning thermals. Optional excursion to soothing thermal baths.Day 7 By road over high altitude grasslands and between lagoons humming with bird life to Puno; port and university town on the shores of Lake Titicaca.Days 8,9 Excursion by boat to the reed islands of Uros. These floating islets support houses, a church and a school, all built from the lake’s

tortora reeds. Spend two nights in Copacabana on the Bolivian side of the lake.Days 10-12 Continue alongside a ridge of snow-capped peaks across high altitude prairies to La Paz, Bolivia’s capital. Dramatically situated deep in a bowl in the altiplano, La Paz is easily explored on foot—a city tour is included. Amid charming colonial corners and modern boulevards, bowler-hatted cholitas ply their market trade. Optional visit to the pre-Inca ruins at Tiwanaku.Days 13,14 Fly to Cusco. Guided city tour to see the well-preserved buildings of the Inca and colonial eras. Shop in the colourful markets and dip into the huge range of bars and restaurants.Day 15 Overnight in the beautiful Sacred Valley. Excursions to the Inca temples and fortresses of Pisac and Ollantaytambo.Day 16 By train through a dramatic, narrow gorge into the subtropical mountains, home to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Overnight in a nearby village.Day 17 Option to revisit the ruins. Return to Cusco by rail.Days 18,19 Fly to Puerto Maldonado and continue by boat to a rustic lodge in the Amazon jungle. Excursions include a rainforest walk and nocturnal caiman spotting.Day 20 Return to Puerto Maldonado and fly to Lima. Connect with your international flight home or continue with an extension. UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 4 flights (longest 2hrs); 4 road journeys (longest 7hrs); 2 train journeys (2 and 3½hrs each).

Accommodation Small friendly hotels, colonial or modern in style. Lakeside jungle lodge.

Meals Breakfast daily, full board days 18,19.

Included excursions • Walking tour of Lima• Walking tour of Arequipa• Santa Catalina Convent• Visit the Colca Canyon• Floating reed islands of Uros• Guided tour of La Paz• Guided tour of Cusco and nearby ruins• Full day exploration of Sacred Valley• Guided tour of Machu Picchu• Full program in the Amazon jungle

Summary of nights Lima 2; Arequipa 2; Colca Canyon 2; Puno 1; Copacabana 2; La Paz 3; Cusco 2; Sacred Valley 1; Machu Picchu 1; Cusco 1; Amazon 2.

Group size Min 4, max 20. Led by Journey Latin America tour leader and by local naturalist guide in jungle.

Above: Lake Titicaca, one of the most extraordinary natural sights in Latin America.


PERU IN DEPTH

CONDOR DISCOVERY JOURNEY

20 DAYS, 19 NIGHTS Floating reed islands of Uros on the serene waters of Lake Titicaca. La Paz: medley of indian, Spanish colonial and contemporary life. Cusco: music, markets, museums—Peru’s most dynamic city. Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley: the splendours of the Inca heritage. A taste of the Amazon rainforest at a peaceful jungle lodge.

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EXTENSION


Continue your journey of Peru by flying over the Nazca Lines and visiting the Ballestas Islands to view the prolific bird life up close.


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EXCELLENT TRIP WELL WORTH THE MONEY AND SO MUCH BETTER WITH A GUIDE TO MAKE IT RUN SMOOTHLY.DR, SOUTHPORT


WE LOVED OUR CONDOR DISCOVERY TRIP—AN EXPERIENCE RATHER THAN A HOLIDAY WITH SO MUCH PACKED INTO THREE WEEKS. WE ADDED FOUR DAYS ON AT THE END TO VISIT SIPÁN AND CHAN CHAN—WELL WORTHWHILE AND A RELAXING END TO A HECTIC SCHEDULE.AS, TENBURY WELLS

Colca Canyon is the world’s second deepest canyon.



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Above: El Misti is one of Peru’s most famous volcanoes.

Left: The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.


TQ2021 24 May 20 07 Jun 20 £2,505 £3,420TQ2022 16 Aug 20 30 Aug 20 £2,505 £3,594TQ2023 27 Sep 20 11 Oct 20 £2,505 £3,420



PACIFIC OCEAN

PERU

•Lima

Andes

•

•

Chiclayo

Cajamarca

Kuelap

•

•Trujillo

Chan Chan

v

vChachapoyas

•Leymebamba

Transport 2 flights (longest 1 hour); 6 road journeys (longest 10 hours, most 1-3 hours).

Accommodation Mostly small and friendly hotels with private facilities.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch day 8; dinner day 7.

Included excursions • Walking tour of Lima• Chan Chan and Huacas del Sol y

de la Luna• Walking tour of Cajamarca• Leymebamba museum• Revash burial chambers• Visit the Kuelap ruins• The Sarcophagi at Karajia• Walk to the Gocta Falls• Lord of Sipán museum and Túcume

Summary of nights Lima 1; Trujillo 2; Cajamarca 2; Leymebamba 1; El Chillo 1; Chachapoyas 3; Chiclayo 2; Lima 1.


30 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » PERU


THIS IS A BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY AND THIS IS A WONDERFUL TRIP THAT I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ANYONE WITH A LOVE OF HISTORY AND A DESIRE TO LEARN MORE.CE, HALESOWEN

TICO TICO DISCOVERY JOURNEY

14 DAYS, 13 NIGHTS Rich cultural heritage and mountains of lesser-known northern Peru. Remarkable pre-Inca adobe city at Chan Chan. Stately colonial grandeur of Trujillo. Unspoilt historic charm of Cajamarca, set in flowery countryside. Kuelap, huge mountain-top temple-fortress of the Chachapoyans. Chiclayo and the Lord of Sipán: extraordinary pre-Columbian art.

UK clients depart arriving Lima, Peru, the same day.Day 1 Walking tour of Lima with the option for further excursions.Day 2 Fly to Trujillo, coastal town full of stately colonial houses built during the time of the viceroys.Day 3 Explore the ruins of some of the region’s extraordinary pre-Inca civilisations: the gigantic Moche pyramids at Huacas del Sol and de la Luna; and Chan Chan, the world’s largest adobe city, built by the Chimú Empire. Day 4 Bus into the highlands to Cajamarca, attractive colonial city and former haunt of Inca nobility, located in a fertile Andean basin

Above: The Gocta Falls, only discovered in 2005, are believed to the be the 5th highest in the world.

Right: St. John the Baptist Cathedral located in the main square of Chachapoyas.

Far right: The fortress of Kuelap was built in the 6th century AD and consists of over 400 buildings inside a giant exterior stone wall.

Left: The vast adobe citadel of Chan Chan, once the imperial city of the Chimú Empire.

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surrounded by dairy farms.Day 5 Walking tour of the city. Optional visit to the nearby thermal baths and the pre-Inca aqueducts at Cumbe Mayo.Day 6 By road to Leymebamba, remote town surrounded by pre-Columbian ruins, many still enveloped in forest. Day 7 Visit to a museum housing 219 Chachapoyan mummies, which were found in the region. Walk to the burial chambers at Revash, cliff tombs resembling houses that peek out of a sheer mountainside. Continue by road to Chillo.Day 8 Visit the vast ruined citadel

of Kuelap, the most spectacular of Peru’s non-Inca pre-Conquest heritage. It sits astride a mountain crest with commanding views over the river and forests and is now reached by a spectacular new cable car. Continue to Chachapoyas.Day 9 Excursion to the sarcophagi at Karajía. A rugged limestone cliff face emerges from dense forest and supports six extraordinary clay figures, tombs in which the Chachapoyan people buried their chiefs and which have stood there for 600 years.Day 10 Visit the glorious Gocta Falls. Only discovered in 2005, these colossal falls are the fifth tallest in the world. Follow a steep trail to the base of the misty cataract and an inviting pool. Spring water plummets from dense vegetation in the mountainside 771m above.Day 11 Drive, through the continental divide (at 2,140m, the lowest section of the Andes between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans) to Chiclayo on the north Peruvian desert coast.Day 12 Visit the museum of Sipán (which houses the bejewelled tomb of the Lord of Sipán), and the eerie ruins at Túcume, a city built over a thousand years ago.Day 13 Fly to Lima. Optional excursion to the adobe Inca ceremonial centre at Pachacamac. Day 14 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

CULTURE OF THE NORTHERN ANDES


Above: Chachapoyas is set in a beautiful mountainous region.

MOST MEMORABLE? – THE STUNNING SCENERY AND UNCOMMERCIALISED NATURE OF NORTHERN PERU.DS, LONDON

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JR2021 22 Jan 20 10 Feb 20 £3,423 £4,297JR2022 04 Mar 20 23 Mar 20 £3,423 £4,297JR2023 01 Apr 20 20 Apr 20 £3,423 £4,244JR2024 06 May 20 25 May 20 £3,423 £4,244JR2025 10 Jun 20 29 Jun 20 £3,423 £4,412JR2026 05 Aug 20 24 Aug 20 £3,423 £4,465JR2027 23 Sep 20 12 Oct 20 £3,423 £4,297JR2028 21 Oct 20 09 Nov 20 £3,423 £4,297JR2029 16 Dec 20 04 Jan 21 £3,423 £4,580



ARGENTINAATLANTIC

OCEAN

Asunción Rio CHILE

Andes IguazúFalls

PERU

BRAZIL

PARAGUAY

Cusco

BOLIVIA

La Paz

Lima •

PACIFICOCEAN

Lake Titicaca

• •

•

•

•

•

Machu Picchu

v

UK clients depart, arriving in Lima, Peru, the same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in Miraflores.Day 2 Morning walking tour of Lima before flying to Cusco.Day 3 Guided city tour of Cusco’s well-preserved buildings of the Inca and colonial eras. Shop in the colourful markets and dip into the huge range of bars and restaurants.Day 4 Overnight in the beautiful Sacred Valley. Excursions to the

Inca temples and fortresses of Pisac and Ollantaytambo.Day 5 By train through a dramatic, narrow gorge into the subtropical mountains, home to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.Day 6 Option to revisit the ruins. Return to Cusco by rail.Day 7 At leisure in Cusco to further explore the city or surrounding countryside.Day 8 Full-day bus journey across the altiplano to Puno on the edge

of Lake Titicaca.Day 9 Boat trip to Uros; floating islands made from tortora reeds. Continue around the lake to Copacabana, Bolivia. Overnight in the shore-side village.Day 10 Boat trip to the deeply traditional Sun Island. By bus across the russet altiplano to La Paz.Days 11,12 Explore Bolivia’s vibrant, colourful capital, situated in the shadow of the colossal, snow-capped Mount Illimani. Guided tour of the city and optional excursions to the pre-Inca ruins at Tiwanaku. Day 13 Fly to Asunción, capital of Paraguay and an unusual mix of indigenous, Spanish, Mennonite and Korean cultures. Days 14,15 Drive to Puerto Iguazú, Argentina, on the border with Brazil. Visit the falls, where 275 individual drops crash down over a 60m cliff in a cacophony of sound and spray—tread the narrow walkways that give an intimate view of this sub-tropical paradise. Day 16 Explore the Brazilian side of the falls before catching a flight to Rio de Janeiro. Days 17,18 Discover Rio, one of the world’s most beautiful cities; excursion to the Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado mountain. Cable car ride up Sugar Loaf mountain for views back over the city and the forested mountains beyond. Day 19 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 3 flights (longest 2hrs); 2 train journeys (2 and 3½hrs each); 4 road journeys (longest 8hrs).

Accommodation Small, comfortable medium class and simple hotels, modern and colonial in style, private bathroom.


Included excursions • Lima walking tour • Guided tour of Cusco and nearby ruins• Full day exploration of Sacred Valley• Guided tour of Machu Picchu• Floating reed islands of Uros• Boat trip on Titicaca to Sun Island• La Paz city tour• Iguazú Falls (both sides)• Rio city tour• Corcovado and Sugar Loaf mountains

Summary of nights Lima 1; Cusco 2; Sacred Valley 1; Machu Picchu 1; Cusco 2; Puno 1; Copacabana 1; La Paz 3; Asunción 1; Puerto Iguazú 1; Rio 3.


32 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » PERU » BOLIVIA » PARAGUAY » ARGENTINA » BRAZIL


JACANA DISCOVERY JOURNEY

19 DAYS, 18 NIGHTS Treasures of the Inca heartland in Cusco, and the citadel of Machu Picchu Enchanted waters of serene Lake Titicaca. Remote rural back roads of the dramatic altiplano. La Paz, Bolivia’s captivating, photogenic capital, nestled in a bowl amid towering Andean peaks. Thundering tropical falls amid sub-tropical scenery at Iguazú Falls. Staggering views over the bays and beaches of Rio de Janeiro from Corcovado mountain.



HIKE THE INCA TRAIL

THERE WAS SO MUCH, THIS WAS THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME AND WE WOULD CERTAINLY RECOMMEND IT. NR, MAYNOOTH

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Above: The serene waters of Lake Titicaca.

Right: The mighty Iguazú Falls – visit the cataracts close up on foot and by boat.

Far right: The peaceful Sacred Valley is still home to traditional communities of weavers.

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CROSSING THE CONTINENT

EXTENSION


Unwind after your exciting transcontinental adventure with a few days relaxing at Buzios or Ilha Grande.

For full details see extensions p81.Above: Machu Picchu is one of Latin America’s most iconic sites with over 1 million visitors reaching the ruins each year.

THIS TRIP WAS BOOKED PURELY FOR THE VISIT TO IGUAZÚ FALLS. SEEING THEM FROM BOTH SIDES, BRAZIL AND ARGENTINA SIDE WAS TRULY AMAZING. SF, BARROW-IN-FURNESS

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Rio caption here

BOLIVIA

Andes ••

La Higuera

Samaipata

Santa Cruz

Sucre••

•

••

Uyuni

La Paz

Copacabana

PERU

Andes

CHILEARGENTINA

•Potosí

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ZV2021 11 Apr 20 25 Apr 20 £3,067 £4,012 ZV2022 13 Jun 20 27 Jun 20 £3,067 £4,012 ZV2023 05 Sep 20 19 Sep 20 £3,067 £4,012



Transport 2 flights (1hr each); 7 road journeys (longest 8 hrs).

Accommodation Comfortable and simple hotels. Salt hotel in Uyuni. More basic guesthouses/hostels on the Ruta Ché and salt flats.

Meals Breakfast daily; Lunch days 2,4,9 and 11; Full board days 3 and 8.

Included excursions • Guided tour of Santa Cruz• El Fuerte Inca Ruins• Various sites along the Ruta Ché• Guided tour of Sucre• Guided tour of Potosí and Royal Mint• Trip to the Potosi mines• 2 expedition days on the

Uyuni Salt Flats• Guided tour of La Paz• Boat trip on Lake Titicaca and

Sun Island

Summary of nights Santa Cruz 1; Samaipata 1; La Higuera 1; Sucre 2; Potosí 1; Uyuni 1; Salt flats 1; La Paz 2; Copacabana 1; Santa Cruz 1.


34 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » BOLIVIA


Above: The world’s longest and highest cable car has recently opened in La Paz.

Right: Three species of pink flamingos gather to feed at Laguna Colorada in the Uyuni salt flats.

Far right: A resident of the traditional island of Isla del Sol looks over the calm waters of Lake Titicaca.

VISTAS OF BOLIVIA


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UK clients depart on overnight flight arriving in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, early on the morning of day 1.Day 1 Guided exploration of dynamic Santa Cruz, and time to relax before embarking on your trip.Day 2 Head out through blood-red canyons, stopping en route at the Inca ruins of El Fuerte, before reaching the small mountain resort of Samaipata.Day 3 Carry on down the winding valleys of the Ruta Ché. Visit Vallegrande the small town where

the body of Ché was taken, and finish the day in La Higuera where he was shot and killed by the Bolivian military. Days 4,5 Another day of travel leads to the legislative capital of country – Sucre. A guided tour of the city will introduce you to the cities loveliest colonial buildings and best museums. Day 6 Scenic drive to Potosí the world’s highest city and the former silver capital of the world, where you’ll take a sedate walking tour and visit the famous Royal Mint.

ZAMPULLIN DISCOVERY JOURNEY

13 DAYS, 12 NIGHTS In depth tour of the some of the many highlights of unsung Bolivia. Get off the beaten track on the Ruta Ché Guevara, the scene of Latin America’s most famous revolutionaries last stand. Dazzling salt pans and flamingo filled lagoons around Uyuni. Shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca and sacred sites of Sun Island. Contrasting cities: Stunningly situated La Paz, colonial Sucre and sultry Santa Cruz. Quintessential South America alive with a dominant indigenous culture.

Day 7 Morning trip to one of the co-operative mines still functioning around the city, before continuing onto Uyuni and the gateway to the world famous salt flats.Days 8,9 Embark on a two day exploration of the shimmering salt pans and vivid lagoons that stretch far to the south of Uyuni. On the afternoon of the second day fly to La Paz.Day 10 Explore the jumble of buildings clinging to the slopes of La Paz by foot and cable car, and head out to the desolate Moon Valley.Day 11 Journey north to the shores of Lake Titicaca. Boat trip to Isla del Sol (Sun Island) the famed birthplace of the Inca gods. Overnight in Copacabana.Day 12 Return to La Paz for a flight back to Santa Cruz for the final night.Day 13 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Left: Elegant with its whitewashed colonial buildings, sunny Sucre is Bolivia’s second largest city and legislative capital.

Right: Sunrise and sunsets are particularly stunning at Uyuni salt flats.

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PB2021 23 Mar 20 13 Apr 20 £3,831 £4,755PB2022 11 May 20 01 Jun 20 £3,831 £4,755PB2023 08 Jun 20 29 Jun 20 £3,831 £4,755PB2024 10 Aug 20 31 Aug 20 £3,831 £4,755PB2025 14 Sep 20 05 Oct 20 £3,831 £4,755PB2026 26 Oct 20 16 Nov 20 £3,831 £4,755


*Approximate reduction for leaving in La Paz is £1,200 but please enquire for details. For those who have already visited Buenos Aires, we can also offer the option of starting in Chile.


ARGENTINA

PARAGUAYCHILE

BOLIVIA

PERU

Buenos Aires

Lake Titicaca

•Salta

La Paz

••

Cusco

Lima•

Machu Picchu

Atacama Desert

Uyuni Salt Flats•

•

BRAZIL

PACIFIC OCEAN

•

•

Andes

v

36 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » ARGENTINA » CHILE » BOLIVIA » PERU


Fancy hiking some of the Inca Trail without interrupting your tour? We can organise for you to walk the mini Inca Trail, but still have a guided tour of the ruins and stay with the group in the evenings. Ask us for details.

HIKE THE INCA TRAIL

Above: The northwest of Argentina is home to colourful, arid canyons, as well as some of the country’s finest wineries.

Right: The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on the planet.

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UK clients depart on overnight flight arriving in Buenos Aires, Argentina, early morning on day 1. Day 1 Explore Buenos Aires, two nights in the capital.Day 2 Guided tour of the city. Days 3,4 Fly to colonial Salta. Excursion to the nearby blood red canyons and vineyards.Days 5,6 High-altitude bus ride across the Andes (over 4000m) to the Atacama desert. Excursion to the Moon Valley, surreal landscape of wind-eroded rocks. Optional visit to the hot water geysers at El Tatio.Days 7-9 Jeep expedition across the Uyuni salt flats on the Bolivian frontier: shimmering salt pans and vivid lagoons. Flight to La Paz.Days 10,11 Guided tour of Bolivia’s capital, overlooked by the dramatic snow-capped Mount Illimani, and where street life is a colourful daily pageant. Optional excursion to the Tiwanaku ruins.Day 12 Drive across the altiplano to Lake Titicaca. Overnight in lakeside Copacabana. Optional visit to Sun Island. Those who have been to Peru before may choose to leave

the trip here.* Day 13 Boat trip to see the floating reed islands of Uros. Optional visit to the funeral towers (chullpas) at Sillustani.Day 14 Full-day bus journey through rural altiplano villages to Cusco.Day 15 Guided tour of Cusco, golden city of colonial and Inca heritage. Excursion to Sacsayhuaman temple-fortress.Day 16 Over the hills to the Sacred Valley, an artery of agricultural, pretty villages and large-scale Inca fortresses and temples, notably at Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Overnight in the valley.Day 17 By train to Machu Picchu, the most spectacular Inca citadel. Overnight in nearby village.Day 18 Option to revisit Machu Picchu, walk to a nearby waterfall or relax in Machu Picchu Village.Day 19 Fly to Lima, walking tour of the imperial centre.Day 20 Depart for international flight or extension. UK clients arrive home the following day.

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EXTENSION


Take a short flight from Cusco to the Amazon basin for a 2-night stay in a comfortable riverside jungle lodge, exploring the flora and fauna on foot and by canoe.


PANORAMA OF THE ANDES

PATO ANDINO DISCOVERY JOURNEY

20 DAYS, 19 NIGHTS Dramatic journey between two fascinating capitals, Buenos Aires and Lima. Salta—cultured city in the lesser-known Andean foothills. High pass over the Andes and through surreal, lofty landscapes to the Atacama desert. Expedition across the shimmering Uyuni salt flats and the luminous lagoons and astonishing scenery of remote southern Bolivia. Architecture and history of the Inca heartland in Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Transport 3 flights (longest 2hrs); 2 train journeys (2 and 3½hrs); 6 road journeys (longest 10hrs including stops).

Accommodation Mid-range hotels with private bathroom. Basic accommodation in the Uyuni salt flats area.

Meals Breakfast daily; full board days 7,8; lunch day 9.

Included excursions • Guided tour of Buenos Aires• Canyons and vineyards near Salta• Moon Valley in the Atacama• 2 day jeep expedition on Uyuni Salt Flats• Guided tour of La Paz• Floating reed islands of Uros• Guided tour of Cusco and nearby ruins• Full day exploration of Sacred Valley• Guided tour of Machu Picchu• Walking tour of Lima

Summary of nights Buenos Aires 2; Salta 2; San Pedro de Atacama 2; Uyuni salt flats 2; La Paz 3; Copacabana 1; Puno 1; Cusco 2; Sacred Valley 1; Machu Picchu 1; Cusco 1; Lima 1.


THE PATO ANDINO IS AN AMAZING TOUR. IT IS TOUGH AT TIMES! BUT THE RANGE YOU GET —FROM BUENOS AIRES TO THE JOURNEY BY 4X4s THROUGH THE ALTIPLANO IS LIKE NO OTHER EXPERIENCE! THANK YOU FOR YET ANOTHER AMAZING EXPERIENCE. BUT YET AGAIN, I DIDN’T WANT TO COME HOME AND I DON’T WANT TO GO BACK TO WORK!AB, CHESTERFIELD


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THE OVERALL PATO ANDINO EXPERIENCE WAS TRULY FANTASTIC, THE SHEER NUMBER OF BREATH TAKING SIGHTS TO MARVEL AT WAS INCREDIBLE.AY, CHESHAM

Above: The Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu was only discovered 107 years ago by American explorer Hiram Bingham.

Left: Isla del Sol was once a major pilgrimage destination for the Inca civilization.

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NS2021 04 Jan 20 25 Jan 20 £4,077 £5,337NS2022 25 Jan 20 15 Feb 20 £4,077 £5,074NS2023 08 Feb 20 29 Feb 20 £4,077 £5,074NS2024 07 Mar 20 28 Mar 20 £4,042 £5,039NS2025 31 Oct 20 21 Nov 20 £4,042 £5,039NS2026 21 Nov 20 12 Dec 20 £4,042 £5,039NS2027 12 Dec 20 02 Jan 21 £4,042 £5,302

Please note that the dates above are for UK departure, and UK arrival: some tours may use overnight flights on the way out to Latin America, and some may use daytime flights. If you would like to arrange your own flights please contact us beforehand so we can advise and ensure you book the correct dates..

Single supplement: NS2021/22/23 £1,014; NS2024/25/26/27 £960Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

HOTEL UPGRADEAccommodation in Torres del Paine is in single bed dorm rooms of up to 6 people. Passengers can stay at the nearby Hotel Las Torres, however availability can be limited and incurrs an additional supplement which varies depending on room and package type available. We also offer camping, should this be of interest.

ARGENTINA

URUGUAY

ATLANTICOCEANCHILE

Andes

•Santiago

• Puerto Varas

Valparaíso

Buenos Aires

TemucoPucón

ChiloéIsland

•

••

Punta Arenas

El Calafate

Ushuaia

El Chaltén/Fitz Roy

•

•

•

•Puerto Natales

Torres del Paine National Park

•

• •

PEAKS AND PLAINS OF PATAGONIA

EXTENSION


Extend your trip with a visit to the magnificent Iguazú Falls, with the option to continue on to Rio.


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Above: Petrohue Falls with Osorno volcano in the background.

UK clients depart on overnight flight arriving in Santiago, Chile on day 1.Day 1 Walking tour of Santiago. Views over the city and the Andes beyond, from San Cristóbal Hill. Two nights in this cosmopolitan capital.Day 2 Optional excursion to a nearby vineyard or to Valparaíso, a lively port where painted wooden houses cling to vertical cliffs, accessed by funicular railways.Day 3 Fly to Temuco in the volcano-dotted lake district and continue by bus to lakeside Pucón. Optional biking, rafting and bathing in thermal pools.Day 4 Optional ascent of snow-capped Villarrica volcano (weather permitting), which overlooks the town. Or relax in the resort and enjoy the views. Day 5 By road to Puerto Varas, another thriving lakeside town. Excursion to Petrohué Falls.Day 6 Day trip to the rural island of Chiloé with its unique atmosphere of mists and myths. Includes Zodiac boat trip to the Humboldt penguin colony on the Islotes de Puñihuil, a rocky outcrop off the rugged west coast (Nov-Mar).

Day 7 Fly to Punta Arenas on the Magellan Straits and continue by road to Puerto Natales, on Last Hope Sound.Days 8-10 Based at a cosy hostel in the shadow of towering granite pillars in Torres del Paine National Park, spend three days exploring the translucent lagoons, iceberg-dotted rivers and snow-white glaciers. The park teems with wildlife—guanacos, condors, eagles, silver fox and puma have all been seen.Day 11 Road journey to El Calafate in Argentina—located on the shores of the vast, turquoise Lago Argentino.Day 12 Excursion to Perito Moreno glacier, 1km across and higher than a tower block. From the wooden walkways that run alongside its massive wall, watch as huge cathedrals of ice calve into the lake below.Day 13 Drive to El Chaltén in the Fitz Roy range. Walk to the foot of the granite needle of Cerro Torre.Day 14 Walking opportunities among the vertical cliffs of these monumental mountains.Days 15,16 Fly to Ushuaia, principal port on the island of Tierra del

Fuego, at the southernmost tip of the continent. Jagged peaks run down to the shore of the Beagle Channel, beyond which lie Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula. Included walk in the ancient forests of Tierra del Fuego National Park, which fringe Lapataia Bay. Optional boat trip on the Beagle Channel. Days 17,18 Fly to Buenos Aires where belle époque architecture, trendy boutiques and pavement cafés create a European flavour. Guided city tour and optional tango show.Day 19 Optional trip across the River Plate to Colonia, Uruguay.Day 20 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 4 flights (longest 3½hrs); 6 road journeys (longest 6hrs).

Accommodation Comfortable hotels with private bathroom. Hostel accommodation with shared facilities in Torres del Paine.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch day 16.

Included excursions • Walking tour of Santiago• Excursion to Petrohue Falls• Full day trip to Chiloé Island• Milodon Cave and Salto Grande• Walks in Torres del Paine• Visit to Perito Moreno glacier• Walks in Fitz Roy range• Day trip to Tierra del Fuego• Guided tour of Buenos Aires

Summary of nights Santiago 2; Pucón 2; Puerto Varas 2; Puerto Natales 1; Torres del Paine 3; El Calafate 2; El Chaltén 2; Ushuaia 2; Buenos Aires 3.


38 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » CHILE » ARGENTINA

Below: The glaciers, forests and turquoise waters of Torres del Paine National Park make fantastic hiking country.


NANDU DISCOVERY JOURNEY

20 DAYS, 19 NIGHTS Chile’s lake district—outdoor activities in the shadow of volcanoes. Dramatic, wilderness beauty in Torres del Paine National Park. Perito Moreno glacier: a 70m-high vivid blue ice wall, which sighs and roars as chunks break away and set adrift. Tierra del Fuego: unique mountain scenery in the ‘Land of Fire’. Dancing, street life, culture and cuisine in Buenos Aires, the Paris of South America.

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Right: Villarrica Volcano at Pucón.

Far right: Get up close to the spellbinding wall of ice at Perito Moreno glacier.

View of Mount Fitz Roy, the iconic mountain towering on the border between Argentina and Chile.



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AMAZINGLY THE TRIP WAS EVERYTHING I HAD HOPED IT WOULD BE. HAVING WANTED TO GO TO PATAGONIA SINCE I CAN REMEMBER, AND HAVING THE OPPORTUNITY ARISE FAIRLY LAST MINUTE, CHOOSING JLA WAS A GOOD DECISION! GREAT ITINERARY AND GOOD ORGANISATION LEFT ME TO ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE.JA, SUTTON

THIS WAS A HOLIDAY I HAVE WANTED TO DO FOR MANY YEARS AND IT DID NOT FAIL TO DELIVER. OUR TOUR LEADER WAS PROFESSIONAL, UNDERSTANDING AND INTEGRATED WITH THE LOCAL GUIDES TO ENSURE WE RECEIVED THE BEST SERVICE AND INFORMATION. GM, FAIRFORD


WS2021 13 Jan 20 26 Jan 20 £2,865 £3,985WS2022 03 Feb 20 16 Feb 20 £2,865 £3,869WS2023 09 Mar 20 22 Mar 20 £2,865 £3,869WS2024 16 Nov 20 29 Nov 20 £2,865 £3,869WS2025 07 Dec 20 20 Dec 20 £2,865 £4,016


Single supplement: £800 Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

ARGENTINA

URUGUAY

ATLANTIC OCEAN

CHILE

Andes

•SantiagoValparaíso

Buenos Aires

•

Punta Arenas

El Calafate

Chiloé

•

•

•

Torres del Paine National Park

••

Puerto Varas

•Puerto Natales

UK clients depart on overnight flight arriving in Santiago, Chile on day 1. Day 1 Walking tour of colonial Santiago, overnight in the capital. Day 2 Optional excursion to a nearby vineyard, or to Valparaíso, a lively port where painted houses cling to near vertical cliffs, reached by a funicular railway.Day 3 Fly to Puerto Montt and

continue by road to Puerto Varas. Free afternoon to explore this lakeside town or visit the Petrohué Falls.Day 4 Full day exploration of fascinating Chiloé Island. Spot penguins on desolate beaches, explore mythical settlements and sample the local cuisine in this other worldly place.

Transport 3 flights (longest 3hrs); 4 road journeys (longest 6hrs); 1 full day journey by boat.

Accommodation Comfortable hotels with private bathroom.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch days 4,6.

Included excursions • Walking tour of Santiago• Full day trip to Chiloé Island• Boat trip into Torres del Paine• Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers• Salto Grande and Laguna Amarga• Visit to Perito Moreno glacier• Guided tour of Buenos Aires

Summary of nights Santiago 2; Puerto Varas 2; Puerto Natales 1; Rio Serrano 2; El Calafate 2; Buenos Aires 2.



Above: Brightly painted palafito homes line the waterfront and Castro, Chiloé’s captial.


PURE PATAGONIA

CHARITO DISCOVERY JOURNEY

12 DAYS, 11 NIGHTS Travel to the mythical emerald island of Chiloé, the land that time forgot. Remote splendour of the southern Andes in spellbinding Patagonia. Dramatic granite massifs, forests and turquoise waters in the Torres del Paine National Park. Perito Moreno glacier: a vast, dynamic ice wall in vivid blue. Buenos Aires the elegant, eclectic capital.

EXTENSION


Continue further south to Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaia the world’s southernmost town and navigate along the Beagle Channel .Alternatively continue on to the Iguazú Falls and Rio de Janeiro.


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Day 5 Fly to Punta Arenas and continue by road to the small town of Puerto Natales, on the shores of Last Hope Sound, frequented by pelicans, black-necked swans and cormorants. Day 6 Excursion by boat to Rio Serrano, via the glaciers of Balmaceda and Serrano. Spend two nights close to the lagoons, iceberg-dotted rivers and dramatic granite massifs of the Torres del Paine National Park. The park teems with wildlife: guanacos, condors, eagles, silver fox and puma have all been spotted. Day 7 Optional boat trip to the face of the glacier on Lago Grey, or hike into the Valle Frances. Day 8 Private bus to El Calafate in Argentina—located on the shores of the vast, turquoise Lago Argentino. Day 9 Visit the Perito Moreno glacier, a kilometre wide and taller than a tower block. Wooden walkways run alongside the massive ice wall, from which huge chunks calve into the lake below.Day 10 Fly to Buenos Aires where the belle époque architecture, trendy boutiques and pavement cafés create a European flavour. cafés create a European flavour. Day 11 Walking tour of the city. Optional visit to an evening tango show.Day 12 Depart for international flight or extension. UK clients arrive home the following day.


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THIS TOUR PACKS A LOT IN AND IS OUTSTANDING VALUE FOR MONEY. THERE ARE A FEW LENGTHY DRIVES HOWEVER THEY PROVIDE GOOD ‘REST’ OPPORTUNITIES AND WITH THE SCENERY, PASS VERY QUICKLY. THE ACCOMMODATIONS ARE ALL VERY CLEAN AND WITHOUT EXCEPTION, THE PEOPLE RUNNING THEM WERE VERY FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL.DR, TAUNTON

Above: Torres del Paine National Park is one of Chile’s most popular destinations. Left: Perito Moreno glacier descends from the southern ice cap, some 350km long.



I HAD AN ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL HOLIDAY, THANK YOU... HIGHLIGHTS? WALKING IN PATAGONIA—STUNNINGLY BEAUTIFUL ON BOTH THE CHILEAN AND ARGENTINIAN SIDES.CB, SURREY

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FromBuenos Aires

ARGENTINAEsquel

ToSantiago

•Futaleufú

Puyuhuapi

CoyhaiqueBalmaceda

Puerto Bertrand

Rio Tranquilo

•

•

••

••

CHILE


RB2021 27 Feb 20 14 Mar 20 £3,448 £4,446 RB2022 29 Oct 20 14 Nov 20 £3,448 £4,446


Single supplement: £590 Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

42 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » ARGENTINA » CHILE


LITTLE-KNOWN PATAGONIA


Above: Rio Futaleafú offers some of the best white water rafting opportunities in Chile.

Right: The Old Patagonian Express making its way across the steppe.

EXTENSION


Fly from Santiago to Easter Island, Chile’s Polynesian paradise famous for its statues of giant carved heads, where the local population extends a warm welcome to visitors. You won’t be disappointed.


UK clients depart on overnight flight, arriving in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the following morning.Day 1 Overnight in Buenos Aires, an eclectic city of leafy plazas, belle époque architecture, enormous steaks and sultry tango.Day 2 Guided city tour, including the colourful colonial barrio of San Telmo. Optional evening visit to a tango show. Day 3 Fly to Esquel in northern Patagonia, a town nestled against the

Andes, whose magnificent, snowy peaks give a taste of what’s to come.Day 4 By train aboard the Old Patagonian Express (if operating), and across the Patagonian steppes. If the train is not operating, excursion into Los Alerces National Park, an area of beautiful lakes and forest.Day 5 By road into Chile and the town of Futaleufú, on the shores of the mighty white water Rio Futaleufú. Optional rafting or walks along the riverbanks and into the mountains.

Days 6,7 By road along the southern highway, through thick forests and glaciers to Puerto Puyuhuapi on the edge of a dramatic fjord. Optional visit to nearby hot springs. Trek into the Queulat National Park to a hanging glacier, from which ice crashes on to rocks below. Day 8 Explore Coyhaique and optional hikes along trails in a nearby national reserve.Days 9,10 By road through sweeping valleys, fierce rivers and deciduous forests to the waters of Lago General Carrera. Cross by car ferry and skirt the southern shore. Overnight in a lakeside lodge. Optional activities include fly fishing, horse riding, trekking and kayaking, or relaxing overlooking the river.Days 11,12 Journey back north to Puerto Rio Tranquilo. Excursion to the Northern Ice Cap. Option to trek on the Exploradores glacier. Boat trip to the Capillas de Mármol, eroded rocks whose colours are striking against the turquoise, glacial lake water.Day 13 Fly to Santiago. Overnight in the cosmopolitan Chilean capital.Day 14 Optional excursion to a nearby vineyard, or to Valparaíso, a lively port town where colourful wooden houses cling to the steep hillsides.Day 15 Depart for international flight or extension. UK clients arrive home the following day.

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UNTOUCHED AISEN DISCOVERY JOURNEY

15 DAYS, 14 NIGHTS Stunning scenery in a little-known wilderness region of Chile: cool rainforest, glaciers and dramatic mountain peaks Buenos Aires: charming, sophisticated and vibrant; and cosmopolitan Santiago with its dramatic Andean backdrop. Optional rafting on the glacial white waters of the Rio Futaleufú, and ice trekking on the Northern Ice Cap. Forests, fjords and glaciers along the southern highway.

Transport 2 flights (longest 3½hrs); 6 road journeys (longest 6hrs); 1 car ferry *Note: many days are spent travelling, yet the journeys are broken up en route.

Accommodation Simple, comfortable hotels and guesthouses.


Included excursions • Guided tour of Buenos Aires• La Trochita train journey or/• Los Alerces National Park• Queulat National Park• Glacier Exploradores• Boat trip to Capillas de Marmol

Summary of nights 15 days, 14 nights: Buenos Aires 2; Esquel 2; Futaleufú 1; Puerto Puyuhuapi 2; Coyhaique 1; Puerto Guadal 2; Puerto Rio Tranquilo 2; Santiago 2.




HIGHLIGHT OF THE TRIP? ALL OF IT! THE WHOLE THING WAS A GREAT ADVENTURE WE WILL NEVER FORGET AND WE LOVED THE CITIES AS WELL. TO, LOUGHTON

Above: The spectacular landscape of the Aisén region is filled with snow-capped mountains, glaciers and forests.

Left: The sparsely populated Coyhaique region was only made accessible by road as recently as the 1980s.

Below: The polished Capillas de Mármol (Marble Chapels) have risen from Lago General Carrera after 300 million years of persistent erosion by its turquoise waters.

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BRAZIL

ARGENTINA

Santiago

São PauloIguazú Falls

•

PARAGUAY

ATLANTIC OCEANPuerto Varas

Paraty

BOLIVIA

CHILE

Bariloche

BuenosAires

Rio de Janeiro

• •

•

•• ••


CS2021 09 Jan 20 25 Jan 20 £3,133 £4,236 CS2022‡ 13 Feb 20 29 Feb 20 £3,100 £4,203 CS2023 08 Oct 20 24 Oct 20 £3,065 £3,998 CS2024 26 Nov 20 12 Dec 20 £3,065 £3,998

Please note that the dates above are for UK departure, and UK arrival: some tours may use overnight flights on the way out to Latin America, and some may use daytime flights. If you would like to arrange your own flights please contact us beforehand so we can advise and ensure you book the correct dates.‡Extend your stay in Rio to enjoy the Champions Parade.

Single supplement: CS2021 £757, CS2022, £709, CS2023/24 £654

Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

44 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » CHILE » ARGENTINA » BRAZIL

Below: Tango dancers, Buenos Aires.

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TANGARA DISCOVERY JOURNEY

15 DAYS, 14 NIGHTS Three of the continent’s most dynamic cities: Santiago, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro. Cross the Andes staggering scenery of conical volcanoes, snow-dipped mountain peaks and beautiful blue lakes. Iguazú Falls: magnificent cataracts straddle the Argentinian/Brazilian border in the steamy subtropics. The Emerald Coast: forest covered slopes, colonial Paraty and crystal waters. Breathtaking views over the beaches and bays of Rio de Janeiro.

Days 11,12 Fly to São Paulo and continue by road to Paraty, a pretty, cobbled town with colourful colonial architecture. Included excursion by schooner around forested islets and deserted sandy bays.Days 13,14 By road along the lush ‘green coast’ to Rio de Janeiro. Included tour of this breathtaking city, sandwiched between forested mountains and the Atlantic ocean. Includes excursion to Mount Corcovado and the Christ the Redeemer statue for views down over the high rises and the beaches and islands beyond. Cable car ascent of iconic Sugar Loaf mountain. Day 15 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

UK clients depart on overnight flight, arriving in Santiago, Chile, the following morning.Days 1,2 Overnight in Chile’scosmopolitan capital, situated within full view of the awesome, snowy Andes. Walking tour of colonial Santiago. Optional excursion to a nearby vineyard, or to Valparaiso, a lively port where painted houses cling to near vertical cliffs.Days 3,4 Fly south to Puerto Montt and continue by road to Puerto Varas, a pretty, clapboard Germanic town in the heart of the Chilean lake district. The region is dotted with volcanoes, beautiful lakes and glacial waterfalls. There is an included excursion to see the Petrohué Falls. Optional excursion to the traditional island of Chiloé, with its distinctive wooden architecture and age-old agricultural practices.Day 5 By road across the Andes to Argentina. Staggering scenery throughout the journey: towering snow-capped peaks, sparkling deep blue lakes and glacial,

turquoise waterfalls. Overnight in Bariloche, on the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi.Day 6 Walks in the rugged hills of the Argentinian lake district. Optional chair lift to the peak of Cerro Campanario for an incredible panorama.Days 7,8 Fly to Buenos Aires. Leafy plazas and boulevards, a thriving café society and sultry tango coexist in the Argentinian capital. Walking tour of the city. Days 9,10 Fly to Iguazú Falls, on the border with Brazil. Some 275 cataracts thunder over a 2.7km precipice of the Paraná Plateau. The largest cataract tumbles over a dramatic chasm known as The Devil’s Throat. Excursion to the Brazilian side of the river for panoramic views across the expanse of the falls and, on the Argentinian side, where walkways meander through the subtropical forest, up close to the individual cataracts. Optional helicopter ride over the falls and visit to a bird park.

EXTENSION


Head up to the Atacama Desert, the driest in the world but full of interest with volcanoes, vivid lagoons, oases and indigenous villages. There are some fine properties to stay at, such as the much lauded explora en Atacama.


Transport 4 flights (longest 2hrs); 3 road journeys (longest 7hrs).

Accommodation Comfortable hotels with private facilities.


Included excursions • Walking tour of Santiago• Visit to Petrohué Falls• Walks in Bariloche• Guided tour of Buenos Aires• Iguazú Falls (both sides)• Schooner trip in Paraty• Rio city tour• Corcovado and Sugar Loaf mountains

Summary of nights 15 days, 14 nights: Santiago 2; Puerto Varas 2; Bariloche 2; Buenos Aires 2; Iguazú 2; Paraty 2; Rio 2.


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BLUE LAKES AND EMERALD COASTS


Above: Christ the Redeemer stands proud above the city of Rio and the Atlantic Ocean.

Right: Colonial Paraty has an abundance of fashionable boutique shops, restaurants and galleries.

Far right: The power, sheer size and noise of the Iguazú Falls are truly unbelievable.

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Right: The volcanic cones and blue water that makes the Lake District so beautiful.

Below: A waterfall tumbles in front of the iconic conical peak of the Osorno Volcano.



MOST MEMORABLE? –IMPOSSIBLE! WITHOUT EXCEPTION EVERY PART OF THE TRIP WAS MEMORABLE AND AS THE HOLIDAY PROGRESSED WE RAN OUT OF SUPERLATIVES TO DESCRIBE IT! MAX WAS THE ICING ON THE CAKE.EJ, CRAWLEY

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TR2021 09 May 20 21 May 20 £2,873 £3,729TR2022 01 Aug 20 13 Aug 20 £2,873 £3,976TR2023 26 Sep 20 08 Oct 20 £2,873 £3,729TR2024 21 Nov 20 03 Dec 20 £2,873 £3,729



BRAZILPANTANAL

Rio

•

•

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Iguazú Falls

•Paratí

ATLANTIC OCEAN

UK clients depart, arriving Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in Copacabana.Day 2 Explore this extraordinary city: shady high rises bracketed between mountains and the sea, with a fringe of white sand beaches. Excursion by cable-car to the iconic Sugar Loaf mountain. Train ride up Mount Corcovado to the statue of Christ the Redeemer, with views out over the city, bays and islands beyond. Day 3 Drive along the lush ‘green coast’ to colonial Parati: a sleepy bohemia of cobbled streets, colourful colonial houses and flower-filled patios.Day 4 Boat trip to explore the many secluded bays as well as some of the 65 nearby leafy islets and 300 golden sand beaches.Day 5,6 Fly west to the waterfalls at Iguaçu. Some 275 cataracts thunder over a 2.7km precipice of the Paraná Plateau, on the border with Argentina. The largest cataract tumbles over a dramatic chasm known as The Devil’s

Transport 3 flights (longest 5hrs); 4 road journeys (longest 5-6hrs).

Accommodation Good quality medium class hotels (with private bathroom). Traditional pousada (lodge) in the Pantanal with private shower, and air conditioning or ceiling ventilator.

Meals Breakfast daily; full board at the Pantanal lodge.

Included excursions • Rio city tour• Corcovado and Sugar Loaf

mountains• Schooner trip in Paratí• Iguazú Falls (both sides)• 3 days of tours in the Pantanal

Summary of nights Rio 2; Paratí 2; Iguazú 2; Pantanal 4; Rio 1.


46 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » BRAZIL

Throat. Excursion on the Brazilian side of the river for panoramic views across the expanse of the falls, and to the Argentinian side, where walkways meander through the subtropical forest, up close to the individual cataracts.Day 7-10 Fly to Campo Grande and drive into the vast Pantanal wetlands, a haven for an incredible array of bird life, including the huge and colourful hyacinth macaw, toucans, parakeets, trogons, hummingbirds and the strange and dignified jabirú, a giant stork. The openness of the landscape makes the birds, and the prolific wildlife, easier to spot: howler monkeys, anteaters, armadillos, caimans and capybaras (a giant guinea pig) are often seen. Excursions into the region are on foot, horseback, by truck or canoe.Day 11 Fly to Rio.Day 12 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

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Top: Hyacinth macaws are a common sight in the Pantanal wetlands.

Middle: The capybara is the world’s largest rodent and can be found in the Brazilian Pantanal.

Above: The iconic Christ the Redeemer overlooking Rio de Janeiro.

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NATURAL BRAZIL

TROGON DISCOVERY JOURNEY

12 DAYS, 11 NIGHTS Brazil at its most extraordinary: staggering cities; incredible wildlife and awesome scenery. Situated between steep forested mountains and the Atlantic ocean, are the bays, beaches and high rises of breathtaking Rio de Janeiro. Colonial charms of artist and literary haven, coastal Paraty. The Pantanal: remote wetlands teeming with bird life. Iguazú, the world’s most impressive waterfalls in magnificent tropical forest.


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Right in the centre of Brazil, the Pantanal is the world’s largest wetlands.

AN EXCELLENT CHOICE OF NATURE HIGHLIGHTS IN A GREAT COUNTRY, GUIDED BY A TOUR LEADER WHO UNDERSTANDS BOTH WORLDS AND CAN PROVIDE UNIQUE INSIGHTS. I DREW ENERGY AND INSPIRATION FROM THIS EXPERIENCE BY VISITING SO MANY AND DIVERSE SIGHTS YET I HAD A VERY GOOD REST —THE PERFECT HOLIDAY.EU, BASEL, SWITZERLAND.

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PHOTOGRAPH:FRANCKGUIZIOU/AWL-IMAGES.COM

Traditionally dressed women in Cusco.

CLASSICJOURNEYS


TO2021 19 Jan 20 31 Jan 20 £2,577 £3,398TO2022 15 Mar 20 27 Mar 20 £2,577 £3,398TO2023 10 May 20 22 May 20 £2,577 £3,398TO2024 01 Nov 20 13 Nov 20 £2,757 £3,587



CARIBBEAN SEA

GULF OF MEXICO

Viñales

SantaClara

Havana•

• •

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Las Terrazas

CienfuegosTrinidad

CUBA

CUBA IS CHANGING, SO GO NOW BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE. TAKE IN THE MUSIC AND DANCE ON EVERY STREET CORNER. BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE, AND A HARD WON SOCIALIST IDEAL.CA, LONDON

UK clients depart on a direct flight arriving in Havana, Cuba, same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in the capital.Day 2 Guided walking tour of the captivating city’s colonial and revolutionary heart and a drive along the Malecón in a classic 1950s American saloon car. Optional excursions include an evening cabaret.Day 3 Drive to Santa Clara, delightful university city and home to Che Guevara’s mausoleum. Continue to Trinidad via the Valley of the Sugar Mills (Valle de los Ingenios).

Day 4 Step back a couple of hundred years into the conserved colonial ambience of this lovely cobbled town. Walking tour and optional museum visits.Day 5 Optional excursion into the forests and lakes of the lush Escambray mountains, or to the nearby white sand beach of Playa Ancón.Day 6 Drive to the waterfrontcity of Cienfuegos, ‘the pearl ofthe south’ with French-influenced, art deco architecture. Walking tour of the city.

Transport 7 road journeys (longest 5hrs) by private vehicle.

Accommodation Mid-range hotels and private homestays in Trinidad.


Included excursions • Guided walking tour of Havana• Vintage car ride in Havana• Che mausoleum in Santa Clara• Sugar Mill Valley near Trinidad• Guided walking tour of Trinidad• Botanical Gardens, Cienfuegos• Guided walking tour of Cienfuegos• Bay of Pigs and Giron Museum• Guided walk through Viñales Valley

Summary of nights Havana 2; Trinidad 3; Cienfuegos 1; Las Terrazas 1; Viñales 3; Havana 1.


50 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » CUBA

Above: Tobacco plantation in Viñales.

Below: Turn any corner in Havana and you may come across an impromptu musical performance.

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Below: Classic ’50s American cars are often handed down through the generations and are synonymous with the faded grandeur of Havana.

Day 7 Visit the site of the CIA-backed Bay of Pigs invasion, and the Giron Museum commemorating its failure. Drive via Havana to Las Terrazas, a biosphere reserve set in hilly forested countryside.Day 8 Optional hikes along shady trails among coffee plantations. Continue by road to Viñales, set amid the tobacco fields of the Sierra de los Organos.Days 9,10 Walks in the fertile valley of fruit and tobacco plantations, featuring fairy-tale limestone mogotes.Day 11 Return to Havana.Day 12 Depart on international flight or extension.UK clients depart on a direct flight, arriving home the following day.

RUM AND REVOLUTION

TOCORORO CLASSIC JOURNEY

12 DAYS, 11 NIGHTS Havana, the Caribbean’s most exuberant and atmospheric capital. Succulent tropical scenery: forests, mountains, plantations and pristine natural beaches. Colonial Trinidad: graceful and elegant with a pulsing Caribbean heart. Fairy-tale landscapes of the Viñales region: tobacco fields, caves and limestone mogotes.


EXTENSION


Extend your stay with a few days on the white sand beaches of Cuba’s coast. Warm waves and excellent seafood will help you unwind!


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The French-inspired architecture of elegant Cienfuegos.

I SAW HUMMINGBIRDS, SWAM IN THE CARIBBEAN, HAD A RIDE IN A 1952 BRIGHT PINK CHEVROLET AND HAD GUAVA AND PINEAPPLE FOR BREAKFAST. THERE WAS MUSIC, FUN AND SUNSHINE EVERYWHERE. OUR GUIDE WANTED US TO MEET HER FAVOURITES - MUSICIANS, CRAFTSMEN, SERVICE PEOPLE, WHO ALL HAD PASSIONPB, ROMSEY

Above: Men playing dominoes is a common sight on street corners in Cuba.

Left: Easy to explore on foot, the cobbled streets of Trinidad are lined with colonial plazas and mansions.

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EM2021 22 Jan 20 06 Feb 20 £2,698 £3,498EM2022 19 Feb 20 05 Mar 20 £2,698 £3,528EM2023 01 Apr 20 16 Apr 20 £2,698 £3,598EM2024 29 Jul 20 13 Aug 20 £2,698 £3,748EM2025‡ 28 Oct 20 12 Nov 20 £2,698 £3,528EM2026 23 Dec 20 07 Jan 21 £2,698 £3,638


‡ EM2025 coincides with the Day of the Dead festivities in Oaxaca.


PACIFIC OCEAN

GULF OF MEXICO

Oaxaca

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Tuxtla Palenque

Campeche

• MexicoCity

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• • San Cristóbal

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MEXICO

GUATEMALA

ChichénItza•

UK clients depart , arriving Mexico City the same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in the capital.Day 2 Mexico City is a huge, vibrant metropolis of multilayered cultures. We visit the excellent Museum of Anthropology. Later travel out to the pre-Aztec site of Teotihuacán on the edge of the city. Little is known about the civilisation that built this huge complex of ceremonial buildings, artisans’ dwellings and merchants’ trading houses, but it’s a mysterious, evocative site.Day 3 Tour of the capital’s historic centre. Other optional excursions include trips to the canals of Xochimilco, and the historic borough of Coyoacán, which has retained its original village layout, despite having been absorbed into the city limits. The museum and former studio of artist Frida Kahlo is here.Day 4 Drive to Oaxaca, via Puebla, one of Mexico’s oldest cities—its

houses and churches are adorned with beautiful hand-painted tiles. Set amid rugged mountains, Oaxaca is a delightful colonial town, with a colourful tradition of native arts and crafts. Walking tour of the arcaded plaza, museum and churches.Days 5,6 Panoramic views of the rich, sparsely populated landscape en route to Monte Albán, an imposing hilltop site of Zapotec pyramids and tombs. Excursion to the pre-Hispanic mosaics of Mitla. Time to explore the Oaxaca and soak up the atmosphere. Day 7 Fly to Tuxtla in the Maya state of Chiapas, richly endowed with fertile farmland and wild, jungle-covered ridges. Continue, if there is time, via Sumidero Canyon, a striking 1000m deep national parkland, abundant with wildlife, to San Cristóbal de las Casas: an exquisite city, where indigenous and colonial cultures blend against a backdrop of towering mountains.

Day 8 Included excursion to the highland villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán. Each of these deeply traditional Tzotzil-speaking villages has its own culture and traditions.Day 9 A ravishing drive down through lush, winding valleys towards lowland tropical rainforest and the Maya temples and palaces of jungle-clad Palenque. En route, stop at the waterfalls and pools of Misol-Ha and Agua Azul, where ribbons of crystal-clear water cascade 40m into a deep refreshing pool.Day 10 Guided tour of the ruins at Palenque.Day 11 Drive to historic Campeche on the Gulf of Mexico.Day 12 Continue by road to the Yucatán Peninsula, home of the Maya people. The friendly region hosts sunny colonial towns such

Transport 1 flight (1.5hrs); 6 road journeys (longest 7hrs including stops)

Accommodation High quality mid-range hotels.


Included excursions • Museum of Anthropology• Guided tour of Teotihuacán• Walking tour of Mexico City• Walking tour of Oaxaca• Guided tour of Monte Alban• Visit Mitla and Tule• Sumidero Canyon boat ride• Pools of Misol-ha and Agua Azul• San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán• Guided tour of Palenque• Guided tour of Uxmal• Guided tour of Chichén Itza

Summary of nights Mexico City 3; Oaxaca 3; San Cristóbal 2; Palenque 2; Campeche 1; Mérida 2; Chichén Itzá 1.


52 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » MEXICO

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AZTECS, MAYAS AND CONQUISTADORES


EAGLE CLASSIC JOURNEY

15 DAYS, 14 NIGHTS Mexico City, a buzzing megalopolis brimming with history, culture and museums. Varied and fascinating landscapes: from rocky desert to tropical forest. Historic charm and a serene mountain setting in Oaxaca. San Cristóbal de las Casas: a compelling blend of colonial and indigenous cultures. The terraced Maya city at Palenque: handsome sculptures and towers rise out of the forest. Chichén Itzá and Uxmal: impressive jungle-clad pyramids of the ancient Maya heartland.


as the White City of Mérida, our base for two nights. There is a stop en route to visit the Maya temples at Uxmal.Day 13 Optional excursion to Celestún, where coastal lagoons brim with exotic bird life and there is a white sand beach from which to swim.Day 14 Drive to Chichén Itzá, an extensive Maya site of columns, friezes and impressive pyramids. Overnight here to avoid the crowds of day trippers. Day 15 Depart on international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

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Below: The Mesoamerican city of Teotihuacán is situated just 40km north-east of Mexico City.

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THE TOUR WAS ONE OF THE BEST TRIPS I’VE EVER HAD...HC, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Above: Palenque, a 7th-century Mayan city state absorbed into the jungle, has now been revealed and restored.

Right: Pristine blue cascades of Agua Azul.

Left: Colourful gondolas at Xochimilco floating gardens, Mexico City.

Below left: The Mayan city of Uxmal.

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EXTENSION


Round off your Mexican holiday with a few days on the Mayan Riviera where powdery beaches and calm, glassy seas are backed by tropical forests.



TG2021 10 Jan 20 29 Jan 20 £3,838 £4,678TG2022‡ 02 Apr 20 21 Apr 20 £4,294 £5,239TG2023 30 Jul 20 18 Aug 20 £3,838 £5,098TG2024 08 Oct 20 27 Oct 20 £3,838 £4,626TG2025 19 Nov 20 08 Dec 20 £3,838 £4,626


‡ TG2022 Coincides with Easter celebrations in Antigua.

Single supplement: £685 (TG2022, £1,228)Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

* The Kinkajou Journey featured on pages 56-57 runs in conjunction with this tour. Any passengers booked to travel on the Kinkajou will join the Tropicbird in Antigua for the remainder of the trip.

GranadaPACIFIC OCEAN

CARIBBEAN SEA

••

••

v

Suchitoto

León

Antigua

LakeAtitlán

NICARAGUA

GUATEMALA

EL SALVADOR

•

Lake Nicaragua

Tikal •Chaa Creek

BELIZE

•Managua

•Guatemala City

•San Salvador

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EXTENSION


Extend your stay in Belize, relaxingon the beach at Ambergris Caye, where there’s a choice of hotels (pictured above is Victoria House) and lodges with various activities on offer: rainforest expeditions, watersports and reef adventures.


Transport 2 flights (longest 1hr); 8 scenic land journeys.

Accommodation Mid-range and upper-mid range hotels. In Belize we stay in a first class lodge.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch day 15; dinner days 16-18.

Included excursions • Boat trip to Las Isletas• Masaya Volcano and market• Walking tour of Granada• Walking tour of León• Guided tour of Antigua• Boat trip on Lake Atitlán• Visit Chichicastenango market• Guided tour of Tikal ruins• Guided tour of Yaxha ruins• Selection of excursions from

Chaa Creek

Summary of nights Granada 3; León 2; Suchitoto 2, Antigua 3; Lake Atitlán 3; Tikal 2; Chaa Creek 3.


54 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » NICARAGUA » EL SALVADOR » GUATEMALA » BELIZE

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HIGHLIGHTS OF CENTRAL AMERICA


TROPICBIRD CLASSIC JOURNEY

19 DAYS, 18 NIGHTS Central America’s highlights and its secrets revealed. Colonial splendour in Granada and León, Nicaragua. Historic Suchitoto, El Salvador: cobblestone city of birds and flowers. Guatemala’s rich living culture in Antigua, Chichicastenango, and the villages around Lake Atitlán. Tikal: Maya temples, pyramids and plazas emerge from dense jungle. Belize’s unspoilt forest hinterland.

UK clients depart arriving Managua, Nicaragua, the same day. By road to Granada.Day 1 Three nights in Granada, a fantastically preserved colonial city on the shores of vast Lake Nicaragua. Day 2 Tour of the city and Las Isletas, a jumble of 354 uninhabited, lushly vegetated islands on the lake.

Day 3 Excursion to Masaya, a centre of craftsmanship and folklore, and home to a market selling hammocks, leather goods and woven rugs. Visit the national park and peer into the steaming crater of the Masaya volcano. Day 4 Travel along the shore of Lake Managua to León, a crumbling, colonial city, where narrow alleys

the lake is dotted with traditional villages, each of which has its own striking dress and specialised crafts. Boat trip to Santiago de Atitlán to see its intricate woven textiles, and an optional excursion to the villages of Pana or Sololá. Day 14 Return to Guatemala City and fly to Flores, a short drive to your well-appointed lakeside lodge in a serene setting of exuberant jungle. Deer, crocodiles and howler monkeys have been spotted in the lodge’s surroundings, and there is a pool in which to relax.Day 15 Guided tour of Tikal. This ruined city of temples and pyramids is a Maya masterpiece, set in steamy forest alive with monkeys and the sound of tropical birdsong.Days 16-18 Drive through the rainforest over the border into English-speaking Belize. Stop en route at the Maya ruins of Yaxha on the fringes of a lagoon. Three days based at the Lodge at Chaa Creek, an exclusive jungle retreat set deep in the foothills of the Maya mountains. Accommodation is in delightful thatched adobe cottages and there are options to canoe along the Macal river, and to hike, bike or horse ride along trails in a private nature reserve. A bird watching expedition and a butterfly farm tour are included, and there is a pool and a spa at the hotel.Day 19 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

are crammed with red roofed adobe houses. Walking tour of the town.Day 5 Optional excursions to nearby León Viejo, in the midst of excavations having been destroyed by an earthquake in 1609; or to the undeveloped Pacific coast for a glimpse of the ocean beyond the volcanic black sand beaches.Day 6 Travel to Managua for your short flight to San Salvador. Drive on to Suchitoto, a peaceful, cobblestone, colonial town, with a proud heritage and a buzzing arts scene.Day 7 Optional walk in the rugged hills of the tropical Cinquera nature reserve, or a boat trip out on to the lake.Day 8 By road to Guatemala and to colonial Antigua for a three-night stay.Day 9 Walking tour of the city. Free time to explore, visit the churches and ruins, shop in the boutiques or relax in one of the many bars and restaurants.Day 10 Optional excursion into Honduras to visit one of the Maya civilisation’s most magnificent jungle sites, the ruined city of Copán famous for its intricate carvings. Days 11-13 Drive to Lake Atitlán, where conical volcanoes are reflected in the shimmering, cobalt blue waters. Stop off en route at the artisan market at Chichicastenango, a small, mystical town where Catholicism blends with ancient religious rituals. Overnight in the quiet village of Santa Catarina Palopó, along the shoreline from the bustle of Panajachel. The fertile land around



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Above: Tikal, the largest Mayan site in Central America.

Left: Santa Catalina arch in Antigua, Guatemala.


Surrounded by volcanoes, the cobalt glassy-clear Lake Atitlán is one of the most captivating lakes in the world.

I HAD THREE WONDERFUL WEEKS IN CENTRAL AMERICA. I LOVED THE STUNNING SCENERY, THE FRIENDLY PEOPLE, THE AMAZING MAYAN RUINS, THE DIVERSE FLORA AND FAUNA, AND THE BEAUTIFUL COLOURS OF THE TRADITIONAL COSTUMES. JR, CAMBRIDGE


KJ2021 17 Jan 20 29 Jan 20 £2,656 £3,418KJ2022‡ 09 Apr 20 21 Apr 20 £3,078 £3,865KJ2023 06 Aug 20 18 Aug 20 £2,656 £3,598KJ2024 15 Oct 20 27 Oct 20 £2,656 £3,444KJ2025 26 Nov 20 08 Dec 20 £2,656 £3,418


‡ Coincides with the Easter celebrations in Antigua.

Single supplement: £451 (KJ2022, £927)Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

* The Tropicbird Journey featured on pages 54-55 runs in conjunction with this tour. Any passengers booked to travel on the Tropicbird will have travelled together from Managua to Antigua where you will join the group for the remainder of the trip.

PACIFIC OCEAN

Tikal

Guatemala City

EL SALVADOR

MEXICO

•

•

v•

• • • •

BelizeCity

BELIZE

GUATEMALA

FloresChaa Creek

Antigua

LakeAtitlán

Chichicastenango

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UK clients depart arriving Guatemala City the same day. By road to Antigua.Day 1 Three nights at a hotel in Antigua.Days 2,3 Explore this former colonial capital; a sun-drenched city, where shady plazas and cobbled avenues are lined with terracotta palaces, baroque churches, convents and mansions. The town is lively with markets, boutiques and good restaurants. A guided walking tour and visit to a coffee farm is included.Day 4 Drive to captivating Lake Atitlán, impossibly blue in the glassy calm of a sunny day. En route, visit the huge artisan, textile and foods market at Chichicastenango, famous for its intricate, carved wooden masks.Day 5 Launch across the lake by motor boat to Santiago de Atitlán, with views of forest-clad, conical volcanoes and the tiny cultivated fields that fringe the water. One of the most conservative towns on the lake, where many inhabitants still wear their traditional costumes, Santiago is an excellent place to buy textiles in brilliant colours.

Day 6 Optional excursions around the lake to the villages of Sololá and Panajachel, or time to relax in the tranquil lakeside setting of the hotel.Days 7,8 Afternoon flight to Flores in the jungle of El Petén. Guided tour of Tikal, one of the largest and most impressive Maya sites. Towering pyramids and temples emerge from a dense forest, alive with howler monkeys, parrots, toucans and tree frogs.

Transport 1 flight (1hr); 4 scenic land journeys (longest 4hrs).

Accommodation Mid-range and upper-mid range hotels. In Belize we stay in a first class lodge.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch day 8; half board days 9-11.

Included excursions • Guide tour of Antigua• Boat trip on Lake Atitlán• Visit Chichicastenango market• Guided tour of Tikal ruins• Guided tour of Yaxha ruins• Selection of excursions from

Chaa Creek

Summary of nights Antigua 3; Lake Atitlán 3; Tikal 2; Chaa Creek Lodge 3.


56 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » GUATEMALA » BELIZE

Days 9-11 Drive across the border to Belize with a stop en route at the Maya ruins at Yaxha on the shores of a lagoon. Three days based at the Lodge at Chaa Creek, an exclusive jungle retreat set deep in the foothills of the Maya mountains. Accommodation is in delightful thatched adobe cottages and there are options to canoe along the Macal river, and to hike, bike or horse ride along trails in a private nature reserve. A bird watching expedition and a butterfly farm tour are included, and there is a pool and a spa at the hotel.Day 12 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

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BEST OF GUATEMALA AND BELIZE


KINKAJOU CLASSIC JOURNEY

12 DAYS, 11 NIGHTS Contrasting cultural highlights of two extraordinary Central American countries. Delightful cobbled streets and churches in colonial Antigua. Magical and atmospheric Lake Atitlán: traditional villages and conical volcanoes pepper its shores. The Maya masterpiece at Tikal: temples and pyramids rising from the depths of the rainforest. Mountain trails and rivers in glorious rural Belize.

Above: There are amazing jungle canopy views from the top of Tikal’s pyramids and temples.

Right: Visit the ruins of Xunantunich from Chaa Creek.

Far right: Colourful chicken buses are a feature of Guatemala.

Below: The keel-billed toucan is the national bird of Belize.

EXTENSION


Extend your stay in Belize, relaxingon the beach at Ambergris Caye, where there’s a choice of hotels and lodges with various activities on offer: rainforest expeditions, watersports and reef adventures.


Below: Bustling Chichicastenango market, a great place to people watch and shop for local crafts.



THIS TRIP EXCEEDED OUR EXPECTATIONS. A THOROUGHLY ENJOYABLE AND INTRIGUING INSIGHT INTO THE HISTORY, CULTURE AND SCENERY OF GUATEMALA AND BELIZE AND ITS ANCIENT MAYAN CIVILISATION. AND GREAT FUN TOO. WELL JUDGED, WELL BALANCED AND REALLY WELL EXECUTED. WB, STEYNING

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CB2021 20 Jan 20 04 Feb 20 £3,475 £4,389CB2022 07 Mar 20 22 Mar 20 £3,475 £4,389CB2023 24 Oct 20 08 Nov 20 £3,475 £4,389



CARIBBEAN SEA

Villa de Leyva•

•

•

•

• Bogotá

COLOMBIA

VENEZUELA

UK clients depart on overnight flight arriving in Bogotá, Colombia, early on the morning of day 1.Days 1,2 Guided exploration of the city including the Gold Museum and cable car up Montserrate hill for fabulous views. Two full days allows for ample time to further explore this fascinating city.Day 3 Drive to colonial Villa de Leyva with a stop at the salt cathedral of Zipaquirá. Explore the world famous square and cobbled streets.

Day 4 Guided visit to highlights of the surrounding area, including pre-columbian el Infiernito, Ecce Homo Dominican convent and 150 million year old El Fosil.Day 5 Travel back to Bogotá airport via Laguna Guatavita. Fly to Armenia and transfer into the coffee region.Day 6 Guided visit to a coffee farm, to learn about all the processes that go into making the perfect brew.Day 7 Day trip to the wax palms in Valle de la Cocora and quintessential

Transport 3 flights (longest 1.5hrs); 4 road journeys (longest 5-6hrs).

Accommodation Mid-range and upper mid-range hotels and lodges.


Included excursions • Tour of Bogota with gold museum• Zipaquirá salt cathedral• Highlights tour around Villa de Leyva• Trip to Corcora Valley and Salento• Tour of a coffee farm• Guided tour of Medellín• Visit El Peñol and Guatapé village• Guided tour of Cartagena

Summary of nights Bogotá 2; Villa de Leyva 2; Coffee region 3; Medellín 3; Cartagena 3.


58 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » COLOMBIA

villages of Salento and Filandia.Day 8 Travel by road to vibrant Medellín.Days 9,10 Explore both the city itself on a guided tour and the fascinating sights of Antioquia such as the spectacular boulder of El Peñol and tranquil village of Guatapé.Days 11-13 Fly north to the Caribbean coast and romantic Cartagena. Explore ancient walls, forts and churches, and mingle with horse drawn carts and fruit sellers on a guided tour of the city. Free day to visit the Rosario Islands.Day 14 Drive to airport, fly to Bogotá. Depart for international flight or extension. UK clients arrive home the following day.

COLOMBIA’S COLONIAL AND COFFEE CULTURE


CHACHALACA CLASSIC JOURNEY

14 DAYS, 13 NIGHTS Experience sumptuous landscapes and vibrant towns and cities, in one of the most welcoming countries in Latin America. Bogotá; dynamic capital where old and new collide. Romantic Caribbean Cartagena, with its rich history and buzzing streets. Medellín, one of the continent’s most exciting cities for art, entertainment and gastronomy. Welcoming coffee region littered with green hills, historic fincas and arty villages. The beautifully preserved streets and squares of colonial Villa de Leyva.

Below left: Villa de Leyva is a lovely colonial town whose main square is the largest in Colombia.

Below: View of Bogotá from Mount Monserrate.


Armenia

Medellin

Cartagena

Above: The flower-bedecked balconies of Cartagena add to the city’s charm.

Right: Spectacular views from the top of the boulder of El Peñol (far right).

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The Cocora Valley is home to the wax palm, Colombia’s national tree.



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BQ2021 28 May 20 07 Jun 20 £3,161 £4,241 BQ2022 01 Oct 20 11 Oct 20 £3,161 £4,241



Quito

ECUADOR

Riobamba

GuayaquilBucay

••

•

•

PACIFIC OCEAN

•

COLOMBIA

Mindo

•Cotopaxi

UK clients depart arriving Quito, Ecuador, the same day.Day 1 Transfer to hotel in Quito, overnight in the capital.Day 2 City tour of the colonial centre and excursion to the equatorial monument.Day 3 Descend from Quito to Mindo in one of the world’s most biologically diverse and endangered cloud forests. Our lodge is recognised as a world class bird-watching site. In the afternoon a local guide will lead an exploration along the banks of the Mindo river, where you will learn about the uses of many medicinal plants.Day 4 Dawn opportunity to visit the ‘coq of the rock’ lek, a meeting place where these brightly coloured birds congregate to feed.Day 5 Return to Quito, stopping to spot hummingbirds on the way. Day 6 First day on the rails, beginning in the famous market town of Otavalo. Head across the northern valleys by steam locomotive to Ibarra. There are stops to visit local wood carving and textile weaving communities. Overnight back in Quito.

Day 7 Journey down the Avenue of the Volcanoes passing magnificent mountains and wooded ecosystems. Overnight in Riobamba.Day 8 Continue by rail to Guamote, to visit its renowned Indian market. After lunch, board the train for Alausí to begin a dramatic, eye-watering part of the journey, a section of track called the Devil’s Nose. The track descends 200m of a steep wall of rock by a series of switchbacks; it’s one of the world’s most exhilarating train rides. Back on board the route drops from high Andean sierra into the Pacific lowlands with climate and vegetation changing significantly from temperate to tropical. Overnight in Bucay.Day 9 A morning visit to a cocoa plantation, is followed by the final leg of the journey by steam train to the terminus at Durán. Continue to the tropical port of Guayaquil. Day 10 Day at leisure before flying home.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 2 road journeys. A mixture of rail and road throughout the rest of your journey.

Accommodation Mid-range hotels and traditional haciendas.

Meals Breakfast daily; Lunch days 2,5 and 9; full board days 3,4 and 6-8.

Included excursions • Guided city tour of Quito• Equator monument• Guided walk in Mindo• Bird watching trips in Mindo• 4 day journey on the Tren Crucero• Devil’s Nose Railway

Summary of nights Quito 2; Mindo 2; Quito 2; Riobamba 1; Bucay 1; Guayaquil 1.


60 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » ECUADOR

HATS OFF TO THE ECUADOREANS FOR REINSTATING THIS RAILWAY LINE! IT REALLY IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S GREAT TRAIN JOURNEYS, AND ALL MANAGED WITH SUCH STYLE AND COMFORT.AD, NEWCASTLE

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ECUADOR ON TRACK


PICAFLOR CLASSIC JOURNEY

10 DAYS, 9 NIGHTS Ride the refurbished trans-Andean railway to the Pacific coast. Stop en route to visit places of cultural interest and natural beauty. Ride down the spectacular switchback, Devil’s Nose. Arrive at Ecuador’s most dynamic and vibrant city, Guayaquil. Start the trip with a stay in the bird-filled Mindo cloud forest.

Above: The Andean coq-of-the-rock is found throughout the cloud forests of Ecuador.

Right: Ecuador’s restored railway crosses spectacular landscapes from Andean highlands to Pacific lowlands, punctuated with colouful local communities.

EXTENSION

A FEW DAYS TO SPARE?The Galápagos Islands, situated 965km off the Ecuadorian mainland, offer an incredible show of unique flora and fauna. Finish your South American holiday with an unforgettable 7-night cruise around the archipelago.


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Right: Volcán Chimborazo is Ecuador’s tallest mountain.

Below: The Basílica del Voto Nacional, located in the historic centre of Quito.



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AQ2021 02 Jan 20 18 Jan 20 £5,780 £6,828AQ2022 12 Mar 20 28 Mar 20 £5,780 £6,746AQ2023 07 May 20 23 May 20 £5,780 £6,714AQ2024 30 Jul 20 15 Aug 20 £5,780 £7,056AQ2025 24 Sep 20 10 Oct 20 £5,780 £6,878AQ2026 22 Oct 20 07 Nov 20 £5,780 £6,878AQ2027 03 Dec 20 19 Dec 20 £5,780 £6,878


Single supplement: £394 (mainland only)Single supplement throughout: from £2,815 (including mainland). Single and willing share cabins are always on request and are very limited in numbers, so please enquire for availability. Upgrade to suite on cruise: £1,024ppBusiness class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

ISABELA

FERNANDINABALTRA

SANTACRUZ

Quito

ECUADOR

Riobamba

Alausí

Cuenca

GuayaquilIngapirca

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GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

PACIFIC OCEAN

•

•

•

•

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••

• • •SANTIAGO

•

•

RÁBIDA

•BARTHOLOMEW

TO/FROMGALAPAGOSISLANDS

UK clients depart arriving Quito, Ecuador, the same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in the capital.Day 2 City tour of the UNESCO colonial centre and free afternoon for museum visits.Day 3 Morning drive down the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Stop at the Cotopaxi National Park and Limpiopungo Lagoon. Continue on to Riobamba for a night in a traditional hacienda.Day 4 Continue south to Alausí where we take the Devil’s Nose Train Journey which follows a vertiginous switchback alongside a vertical cliff.Day 5 Continue travelling south via the only Inca site of note in Ecuador, Ingapirca. Stop for a visit and walk around the historical structures set into the side of an Andean slope before continuing south along the Panamerican highway to the charming city of Cuenca.Days 6,7 Guided walking tour of Cuenca, a jewel of a city, its cobblestone centre dominated by remarkable colonial architecture (much of which is constructed

from local marble), flower-filled plazas and white washed walls. Optional visits to the nearby handicraft villages of Gualaceo and Chordeleg, famed for their intricate jewellery and weavings.Day 8 By road to Guayaquil, stopping en route in the Las Cajas National Park, a beautiful, remote region of icy lagoons and sparse vegetation. Stunning scenery as the road descends from the dramatic high Andes into the tropical lowlands. Overnight in Guayaquil on the Pacific coast. Tour of the city.Days 9-15 Fly to the Galápagos Islands for an unforgettable seven night cruise. The vessel has 8 cabins with air conditioning and en suite facilities, a lounge, dining room and sun deck. Smaller than many boats that ply the routes, it offers a friendly and informal environment, can anchor close to the shore so disembarking is quick and easy, and has good naturalist guides. There are visits to a number of the islands, offering a surprising variety of landscapes, from scorched lava to rich woodland. The islands are inhabited by many of the species

Transport 2 flights (longest 3hrs); 3 scenic road/rail journeys; 7-day cruise on small motor yacht.

Accommodation Upper mid-range hotels and a hacienda. First class 16 person motor yacht in the Galápagos Islands.

Meals Breakfast daily; full board cruise days 9-15.

Included excursions • City tour of Quito• Visit Cotopaxi National Park• Ruins of Ingapirca• Devil’s Nose train ride• Guided walking tour of Cuenca • Guided walking tour of Guayaquil• Cajas National Park• Full program of excursions on cruise

Summary of nights Quito 2; Riobamba 1; Alausi 1; Cuenca 3; Guayaquil 1; Galápagos 7.

Group size Min 4, max 16. Led by Journey Latin America tour leader days 1-9, in the Galápagos you are guided by naturalist specialists.

62 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » ECUADOR » GALÁPAGOS

Above: The marine iguana is endemic to the Galápagos Islands.

Right: The Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé Island is one of the most iconic views of the Galápagos.

Below: Ingapirca is Ecuador’s most important Inca site.

studied by Darwin, with unique characteristics—the most notable and rewarding of which is their fearlessness of man. Flamingoes dip into cool lagoons, flightless cormorants dry themselves on jagged rocks, blue footed boobies strut their stuff and lazy dragon-like iguana never fail to impress. There are also opportunities to snorkel with angel fish and swim with sea lions and turtles and maybe even some Galápagos penguins.Day 16 Fly to Guayaquil on the mainland and depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

ECUADOR’S HIGHLANDS AND GALAPAGOS


ALBATROSS CLASSIC JOURNEY

16 DAYS, 15 NIGHTS Ancient craft villages, traditional costumes and ways of life in rural Ecuador. Andean landscapes of ice-dipped volcanoes and fertile plains intersected by verdant valleys. Quito: historic capital in a dramatic, high-altitude mountain setting. Graceful, colonial Cuenca: cobbled lanes, churches and mansions. Galápagos—enchanted islands that teem with land and marine fauna. Cruise aboard a small, friendly, manoeuvrable boat with excellent guides.

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Fly to the Amazon from Quito(1hr) and stay at a jungle lodgefrom which you’ll explore therainforest on foot and by canoe,discovering its tropical flora and fauna.



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UPGRADE YOUR CABINAll the cabins on board have panoramic windows. However for a supplement you may wish to upgrade your cabin. Although the same size as the standard cabins with the same features, the superior rooms are located on a higher deck so are lighter and more airy. Superior cabins are always subject to request.


Above: The Seaman Journey—our comfortable well-appointed motor yacht in the Galápagos.

Right: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito’s old town is one of the best preserved historic centres in the Americas.

IT REALLY WAS A TRIP OF A LIFETIME! THE PROXIMITY AND DIVERSITY OF WILDLIFE—JUST AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE.CB, CAMBRIDGE


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A GREAT MIXTURE OF THE ANDES AND GALAPAGOS—WHICH COVERED ALL THE MAIN THINGS I WANTED TO SEE... ALL THE VOLCANOES GOING DOWN THE AVENUE OF THE VOLCANOES, SNORKELLING WITH SEA TURTLES, WATCHING THE COURTSHIP OF WAVED ALBATROSS, WATCHING SEA-LION PUPS PLAYING IN THE TIDE POOLS AND EXPLORING FERNANDINA WITH ITS LAVA AND FABULOUS ANIMALS AND BIRDS.CJ, WATFORD

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CG2021 02 Jan 20 17 Jan 20 £5,398 £6,333CG2022 13 Feb 20 28 Feb 20 £5,398 £6,317CG2023 23 Apr 20 08 May 20 £5,398 £6,298CG2024 04 Jun 20 19 Jun 20 £5,398 £6,298CG2025 16 Jul 20 31 Jul 20 £5,398 £6,564CG2026 24 Sep 20 09 Oct 20 £5,398 £6,396CG2027 19 Nov 20 04 Dec 20 £5,398 £6,396


Single supplement: £608 (Peru and Ecuador mainland only); £1,442 (Galápagos 4 night cruise).Single supplement throughout: from £2,050Single and willing share cabins are always on request and very limited in numbers, so please enquire for availability. Cabin upgrade: Please enquire.Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

GENOVESA

SANTACRUZ

ECUADOR

•

PERU

COLOMBIA

Cusco•Puno•

v

BRAZIL

BOLIVIA

Lima Lake Titicaca

MachuPicchu

Sacred Valley

Andes

•Guayaquil

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

TO/FROMGALAPAGOSISLANDS

• BALTRA• •RÁBIDA

SANTIAGO

BARTHOLOMEW ••

•

•

UK clients depart arriving Lima, Peru, the same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in the capital.Days 2,3 Fly to Cusco, acclimatise and explore the remarkable Inca capital, including the illustrious colonial churches and museums, leafy squares and lively market. Visit the temple-fortress of Sacsayhuamán, with views over the city. Day 4 Full-day tour of the Sacred Valley, breadbasket of the Incas—sunlit fields of maize; tiny indigenous villages clinging to the banks of a vivacious river; ruined cities and temples straddling the vertiginous valley sides. Overnight in the valley.Day 5 By train along a dramatic gorge to Machu Picchu, fabled Inca city rising out of sub-tropical jungle. Guided tour of the ruins.Day 6 Revisit the ruins of Machu Picchu (optional). Return to Cusco.Day 7 Continue to the the sapphire waters of Lake Titicaca. This scenic route is travelled by road.Day 8 Boat trip to the floatingreed islands of the Uros.

Visit the eerie funeral towers of the Collas at Sillustani.Day 9 Fly to Lima, optional city tour of the capital’s colonial centre.Day 10 Fly to Guayaquil, Ecuador, a lively Pacific port, its promenade buzzing with life. Tour of the city.Days 11-14 Fly to the Galápagos Islands. Four night cruise through the archipelago, on the Sea Star.Day 15 Fly to Guayaquil. Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 5 flights (longest 2½hrs); 2 train journeys (2 and 3½hrs each); 1 road journey 8hrs including stops.

Accommodation Mid-range and upper mid-range hotels. First class 16 person motor yacht in the Galápagos Islands.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch day 4; full board cruise days 11-14.

Included excursions • Guided tour of Cusco and nearby ruins• Full day exploration of Sacred Valley• Guided tour of Machu Picchu• Floating reed islands of Uros• Sillustani funerary towers• Guided tour of Guayaquil• Full program of excursions on cruise

Summary of nights Lima 1; Cusco 2; Sacred Valley 1; Machu Picchu 1; Cusco 1; Puno 2; Lima 1; Guayaquil 1; cruise 4.

Group size Min 4, max 16. Led by Journey Latin America tour leader, local guide in Guayaquil and a specialist naturalist guide in the Galápagos.

64 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » PERU » ECUADOR » GALAPAGOS

THIS HOLIDAY FAR EXCEEDED OUR EXPECTATIONS AND WAS TRULY A ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE!CD, PLYMOUTH

PERU AND GALAPAGOS


GALAPAGOS HAWK CLASSIC JOURNEY

15 DAYS, 14 NIGHTS Cusco, heart of the Inca empire, set amid the majestic Andes. Magnificent ruins of the citadel at Machu Picchu, atop a subtropical mountain peak. Remote island villages on the glassy waters of Lake Titicaca. Unique and fearless fauna on the Galápagos Islands: jagged lava formations, sandy beaches and volcanic craters.

Top: Fortunately for us, the citadel of Machu Picchu, only about 80km from Cusco, was never found by the Spanish and consequently neither plundered nor destroyed. Much of the original infrastructure remains.

Above: The marine iguana is the only lizard in the world with the ability to live at sea.

EXTEND YOUR CRUISE

If you prefer, we can arrange for you to extend your Galápagos cruise to 9 nights. Please advise us at time of booking.

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CGS2021 02 Jan 20 12 Jan 20 £2,355 £3,464CGS2022 13 Feb 20 23 Feb 20 £2,355 £3,168CGS2023 23 Apr 20 03 May 20 £2,355 £3,198CGS2024 04 Jun 20 14 Jun 20 £2,355 £3,168CGS2025 16 Jul 20 26 Jul 20 £2,355 £3,298CGS2026 24 Sep 20 04 Oct 20 £2,355 £3,399CGS2027 19 Nov 20 29 Nov 20 £2,355 £3,399



•

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• • v

PERU

CHILE

Lima

Andes

Andes

PACIFIC OCEAN

Cusco

Machu Picchu

Sacred Valley

Puno

Lake Titicaca

UK clients depart arriving Lima, Peru, the same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in the capital.Days 2,3 Fly to Cusco, a city of baroque, colonial grandeur and Inca architecture, alongside markets bulging with regional produce and artisan crafts, and a great selection of bars and restaurants. City tour includes a visit to the monumental temple -fortress of Sacsayhuamán.Day 4 Full-day tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The mighty Urubamba river flows from icy mountain peaks down between fields of fruit and vegetables cultivated using centuries-old farming methods. Indigenous hamlets and adobe farmsteads are home to the present-day population, while abandoned cities and Inca temples cling to the valley’s steep cliffs. Overnight in the valley. Day 5 By train through the valley as it narrows into a tight gorge leading to Machu Picchu. Guided tour of the Inca ‘lost city’, which straddles a mountain saddle in subtropical jungle.

Day 6 Revisit the ruins of Machu Picchu (optional). Return to Cusco.Day 7 Continue to the sapphire waters of Lake Titicaca. This scenic route through rugged altiplano is travelled by road. Overnight in Puno. Day 8 By boat to the floating reed islands of the Uros indians, and to the eerie Collas funeral towers at Sillustani.Day 9 Fly to Lima, optional tour of the churches, mansions and imperial buildings of the capital’s colonial centre.Day 10 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 2 flights (1½hrs each); 2 train journeys (2 and 3½hrs each); 1 road journey (8hrs including stops).

Accommodation Mid-range and upper mid-range hotels.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch day 4.

Included excursions • Guided tour of Cusco and nearby ruins• Full day exploration of Sacred Valley• Guided tour of Machu Picchu• Floating reed islands of Uros• Sillustani funerary towers

Summary of nights Lima 1; Cusco 2; Sacred Valley 1; Machu Picchu 1; Cusco 1; Puno 2; Lima 1.



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THE HOLIDAY WAS WIDE-RANGING, EXPERTLY ORGANISED AND ALLOWED US TIME TO GO ‘OFF-TOUR’ AND ENJOY THE LOCATIONSINDEPENDENTLY.MB, HACKNEY


ULTIMATE HIGHLIGHTS OF PERU

SWIFT CLASSIC JOURNEY

10 DAYS, 9 NIGHTS Cusco: fascinating amalgam of Inca and colonial architecture. The towering peaks of snow-topped Andes a constant, spellbinding backdrop. Historic villages and ruined temples in the fertile Sacred Valley of the Incas. The magnificent mountain ruins of Machu Picchu, cloaked in tropical vegetation. Sacred, sapphire waters of Lake Titicaca, home to floating reed islands.


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Top: The fertile, rolling fields of the Sacred Valley.

Middle: Totora reed boat on Lake Titicaca.

Above: The Inca terraces of Ollantaytambo.

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PL2021 13 Jan 20 27 Jan 20 £3,386 £4,131PL2022 06 Apr 20 20 Apr 20 £3,386 £4,131PL2023 04 May 20 18 May 20 £3,386 £4,131PL2024 22 Jun 20 06 Jul 20 £3,386 £4,131PL2025 10 Aug 20 24 Aug 20 £3,386 £4,446PL2026 21 Sep 20 05 Oct 20 £3,386 £4,215PL2027 16 Nov 20 30 Nov 20 £3,386 £4,215


Single supplement: £798Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement. Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

•

••

•

• • v

PERU

CHILE

Lima

Arequipa

ColcaCanyon

Andes

Andes

PACIFIC OCEAN

Cusco

Machu Picchu

Sacred Valley

Puno

Lake Titicaca

UK clients depart arriving Lima, Peru, the same day.Day 1 Overnight in the capital, a city with a grand colonial centre, excellent museums and a number of world-class restaurants.Day 2 Fly to Arequipa, a delightful, historic city, characterised by its pearl-white houses, and situated at the foot of the ice-capped volcano, El Misti.Day 3 At leisure to explore the museums and churches, and the Santa Catalina Convent, a tranquil village-within-a-city.Days 4,5 By road through wind-eroded desert landscapes and pampa–home to the dainty vicuña–to the remote Colca Canyon. Early morning excursion to watch condors as they soar on thermals among the crags and pinnacles of the canyon’s perpendicular cliffs. Visit a number of the region’s colourful, traditional communities.Day 6 Drive across high-altitude passes to reach the azure waters of Lake Titicaca. Two nights at a superb hotel on a spit of land jutting out into the lake, with fantastic views.

Day 7 Boat excursion from the lively port of Puno to visit the floating reed islands on the lake, built and inhabited by the Uros indians, who eke out a living from fishing and crafts. Optional visit to the haunting pre-Columbian funeral towers of Sillustani, on the mainland. Day 8 By rail to Cusco, a beautiful full-day journey across the altiplano, beneath snow-dusted Andean peaks. The luxury train continues down through the fertile Central Valley to Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire. A staggering trip. Day 9 Guided tour of the city: a treasure trove of colonial churches, museums and Inca walls, and busy with markets, restaurants and bars. Includes a visit to Inca ruins on the edge of Cusco.Day 10 Tour of the fertile Sacred Valley of the Incas, peppered with the ruins of Inca cities and fortresses, and a visit to Pisac’s colourful indigenous market. Day 11 By road and rail to the Lost City of Machu Picchu, perched on a jungle-clad mountain top. Guided tour of the ruins.

Accommodation is in an award-winning riverside hotel, its lush grounds home to orchids and hummingbirds.Day 12 Optional additional visit to the ruins, including walks to the viewpoints at the Sun Gate and the Inca Bridge. Return by train to Cusco.Day 13 At leisure to explore the city and its surrounds.Day 14 Fly to Lima and depart on international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 2 flights (1hr each); 2 scenic road journeys (longest 6hrs including stops);3 rail journeys (2, 3½ and 10hrs).

Accommodation First class and upper mid-range hotels.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch days 6,8,10; dinner day 4,11, full board day 5.

Included excursions • Walking tour of Lima• Visit the Colca Canyon• Floating reed islands of Uros• Luxury train journey Puno to Cusco• Guided tour of Cusco and nearby ruins• Full day exploration of Sacred Valley• Guided tour of Machu Picchu

Summary of nights Lima 1; Arequipa 2; Colca Canyon 2; Puno 2; Cusco 2; Sacred Valley 1; Machu Picchu 1; Cusco 2.



WE CANNOT PICK OUT ONE MOST MEMORABLE PART OF OUR TRIP AS EVERY DAY PROVIDED US WITH A NEW AND EXCITING EXPERIENCE. WE SAW AND EXPERIENCED THINGS WE HAD ONLY DREAMED OF, SOME OF WHICH HAD BEEN IN OUR DREAMS FOR OVER 48 YEARS.TC, HAYLE.

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ESSENTIAL PERU


PELICANO CLASSIC JOURNEY

14 DAYS, 13 NIGHTS Colca Canyon: spot condors in the world’s deepest gorge. Traditional island communities on the sacred, glimmering waters of Lake Titicaca. Magnificent train journey across rugged altiplano. Inca masonry and colonial splendour in bustling Cusco. An overnight stay near the remarkable Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

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EXTENSION


Continue your journey of Peru by flying over the Nazca Lines and visiting the Ballestas Islands to view the prolific bird life up close.


Top: The Uros islands are made from bundles of totora reeds and float on the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca and are still home to thriving communities.

Machu Picchu was designated a World Heritage Site in 1983, described as “an absolute masterpiece of architecture and a unique testimony to the Inca civilisation.”



HIKE THE INCA TRAIL

THE WHOLE TRIP WAS WELL-ORGANISED ALLOWING OUR GROUP TO MAXIMISE THE TIME WE HAD IN BEAUTIFUL PERU. WE COVERED A LARGE DISTANCE, BUT THE PACE WAS JUST RIGHT, AND THE ACCOMMODATION WAS EXCELLENT. THANK YOU FOR A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE.DC, PINNER


Above: Peruvian woman in traditional clothes holding a baby llama.

Left: The salt ponds of Maras are located in the Sacred Valley, 46km outside of Cusco.

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AF2021 05 Apr 20 22 Apr 20 £4,633 £5,575AF2022 17 May 20 03 Jun 20 £4,633 £5,496AF2023 02 Aug 20 19 Aug 20 £4,633 £5,575AF2024 20 Sep 20 07 Oct 20 £4,633 £5,496


Single supplement: £1,081Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement. Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates please enquire with one of our consultants.

CHILE

v

PACIFIC OCEAN

Cusco

Andes

Uyuni

Lima

BOLIVIA

ARGENTINA

Machu Picchu

Lake Titicaca•La Paz

•

San Pedro de Atacama•

•Santiago

Sacred Valley

•

PERU

•

•

UK clients depart arriving Lima, Peru, the same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in the capital.Day 2 Fly to Cusco, centre of the Inca Empire. Day 3 Full-day excursion to the Sacred Valley, the breadbasket of the Incas: sunlit fields of maize, tiny indigenous villages, and ruined temples perched on the steep valley sides.Day 4 By train along a dramatic gorge to Machu Picchu, Inca citadel rising out of subtropical jungle. Guided tour of the ruins.Day 5 Revisit the ruins (optional). Return to Cusco.Day 6 Guided tour of Cusco’s illustrious colonial churches and museums, a lively market and the temple-fortress of Sacsayhuamán.Day 7 By road along the Andean spine, passing orchards and adobe farmsteads to the remote, windswept plains of the altiplano, where herds of llama graze beneath snow-capped peaks. Arrive in Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Day 8 Drive along the shore across the Bolivian border to Copacabana. Bolivia is South America’s most traditional and exotic country, locked in by towering ice-stifled mountain ranges, and still relatively untouched by mass tourism. Excursion by boat via Moon Island, to Sun Island. Days 9,10 Continue by road to La Paz. Walking tour of this fascinating city, a fusion of indigenous culture, colonial architecture, and busy modern boulevards.Day 11 Day at leisure. Optional excursion to the pre-Inca ruins at Tiwanaku.Days 12-13 Fly from La Paz to Uyuni, and begin your expedition onto the salt flats. Travel by jeep across stark, beautiful altiplano and remote desert; the distant horizons are defined by the jagged, snow-strewn slopes of the Andean cordillera. En route visit tiny isolated churches and villages where people scratch a living raising llamas. Accommodation is in atmospheric hotels constructed from locally mined salt.

Transport 3 flights (longest 2hrs); 2 train journeys (3½hrs each); 4 scenic road journeys (longest 8hrs, including stops).

Accommodation Mid-range through to first class. More simple lodgings in the Uyuni salt flats are used.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch day 14; full board days 12, 13.

Included excursions • Guided tour of Cusco and nearby ruins• Full day exploration of Sacred Valley• Guided tour of Machu Picchu• Boat trip on Titicaca to Sun Island• Guided tour of La Paz• 2 day jeep expedition on Uyuni Salt Flats• Moon Valley in the Atacama

Summary of nights Lima 1; Cusco 1; Sacred Valley 1; Machu Picchu 1; Cusco 2; Puno 1; Copacabana 1; La Paz 3; Uyuni area 2; San Pedro 2; Santiago 1.


68 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » PERU » BOLIVIA » CHILE

Day 14 Drive over the border with Chile to San Pedro de Atacama.Day 15 Excursions in the environs of this little oasis town, including to the contorted rock formations of the Moon Valley.Day 16 By road and air to Santiago. Optional trip to a local vineyard.Day 17 Depart on international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

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Below: Covered by millennial cacti and composed of coral, Isla Incahuasi is located in the middle of the Salar de Uyuni.

THE ANDES LAID BARE


ANDEAN FLAMINGO CLASSIC JOURNEY

17 DAYS, 16 NIGHTS Celebrated and unsung highlights along the spine of the Andes. Ancient temples, traditional villages and colonial splendour in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The ‘lost city’ of Machu Picchu, sat astride a tropical mountain top. Sacred waters and island communities of serene Lake Titicaca. Dazzling salt pans and emerald lagoons in Uyuni and the highlands of southern Bolivia. Volcanoes, canyons and geysers in the Atacama Desert, Chile.


Fancy hiking some of the Inca Trail without interrupting your tour? We can organise for you to walk the mini Inca Trail, but still have a guided tour of the ruins and stay with the group in the evenings. Ask us for details.

HIKE THE INCA TRAILIS

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THERE WERE MANY MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES BUT BOLIVIA IN GENERAL, AND THE SALT PLAINS IN PARTICULAR, WERE AMAZING: PLUS THE FLAMINGOS. I ALSO LOVED THE NIGHT ON SUN ISLAND. I NEVER EXPECTED IT TO BE SO BEAUTIFUL. JS, LEEDS


GETTING TO MACHU PICCHU AFTER A 50 YEAR DREAM WAS AMAZING. ALTHOUGH THE WHOLE OF BOLIVIA WAS MAGICAL STUNNING SCENERY EXCELLENT GUIDES AND A SURREALISTIC LANDSCAPE.MF, WARWICK

Above: The tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca.

Right: The lunar landscapes of the Moon Valley, near San Pedro de Atacama, offer an otherworldly experience.

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HR2021 13 Jan 20 03 Feb 20 £4,877 £5,739HR2022 17 Feb 20 09 Mar 20 £4,877 £5,739HR2023 23 Mar 20 13 Apr 20 £4,877 £5,718HR2024 25 May 20 15 Jun 20 £4,877 £5,718HR2025 27 Jul 20 17 Aug 20 £4,877 £5,949HR2026 07 Sep 20 28 Sep 20 £4,877 £5,718HR2027 05 Oct 20 26 Oct 20 £4,877 £5,718HR2028 02 Nov 20 23 Nov 20 £4,877 £5,718HR2029 30 Nov 20 21 Dec 20 £4,877 £5,718


Single supplement: £1,207Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

BRAZIL•Lima

• v

•••

•

•

•

Machu Picchu

CuscoPuno Lake Titicaca

La PazSucre

Buenos Aires

Iguazú Falls

Rio de Janeiro

PERU

PARAGUAY

ARGENTINA

ATLANTICOCEAN

BOLIVIA

CHILE •

OVERALL THIS WAS THE MOST INTERESTING AND VARIED HOLIDAY I HAVE EVER BEEN ON AND WAS A SUPERB INTRODUCTION TO WHAT WAS, FOR ME, A NEW AREA OF THE WORLD.PM, MOTHERWELL

UK clients depart, arriving in Rio de Janeiro the same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel in Copacabana. Days 2,3 Sandwiched between dramatic mountains and the bays and beaches of the Atlantic, Rio is an awesome city. Excursion by cable car up iconic Sugar Loaf mountain and ascent of Mount Corcovado to the Christ the Redeemer statue, for views back over the city and the ocean.Day 4 Fly to Iguazú, where 275 separate falls plunge over a precipice in a subtropical national park. Overnight in Puerto Iguazú, Argentina. Excursion to the Brazilian side of the falls for a panoramic view. Day 5 At leisure to explore the Argentinian side of the falls, where wooden walkways allow you to get up close to the individual cataracts.Days 6,7 Fly to Buenos Aires. Leafy plazas and boulevards, a thriving restaurant and café scene and sultry tango coexist in the Argentinian capital. Included tour of the city and

optional trips to other museums or to riverside Tigre. Day 8 Fly via Santa Cruz to Sucre, Bolivia: beautiful colonial city, with traditional whitewashed houses, shady plazas, churches and museums.Day 9 Optional full-day excursion to Potosí, high on the altiplano; once a wealthy city and the silver mining capital of the world. Days 10,11 Fly to La Paz, set in a ravine at the foot of snow-capped Mount Illimani. Explore the city, a mix of colonial and indigenous cultures, and buzzing with colourful street life. Day 12 Excursion to the pre-Inca ruins of Tiwanaku, a short drive across the tawny steppes of the altiplano.Day 13 Drive to Copacabana and overnight on the shores of breathtaking Lake Titicaca.Day 14 Scenic lake shore drive to Puno, Peru.Day 15 To Cusco by the Luxury Andean Explorer train through through Peru’s Central Valley,

where remote desolate plains give way to fertile fields and orchards, hemmed in by snow-dusted peaks.Day 16 City tour, taking in Cusco’s ornate churches and massive Inca walls, and including the gigantic temple at Sacsayhuamán, set in the rolling hills that surround the city.Day 17 Tour of the ruined temples and striking scenery of the Sacred Valley, including the indian market at Pisac. Overnight at a hotel in the valley. Day 18 Continue by rail through a narrow gorge to the subtropical mountain peaks that are home to the ‘lost city’ of Machu Picchu. Guided tour of the ruins.Day 19 Optional revisit to the ruins. Return to Cusco by rail and road.Day 20 Fly to the Pacific coast, and Lima, a vast city of elegant palaces and churches, and some excellent museums.Day 21 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 5 flights (longest 6hrs with connection); 2 road journeys (longest 3hrs); 3 rail journeys (2, 3½ and 10hrs).

Accommodation Mid-range, upper mid-range and first class properties.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch days 13,15,17; dinner day 18.

Included excursions • Rio city tour• Corcovado and Sugar Loaf mountains• Iguazú Falls (both sides)• Guided tour of Buenos Aires• Guided tour of Tiwanaku ruins• Guided tour of La Paz• Luxury train from Puno to Cusco• Guided tour of Cusco and nearby ruins• Full day exploration of Sacred Valley• Guided tour of Machu Picchu• Walking tour of Lima

Summary of nights Rio 3; Iguazú 2; Buenos Aires 2; Sucre 2; La Paz 3; Lake Titicaca 1; Puno 1; Cusco 2; Sacred Valley 1; Machu Picchu 1; Cusco 1; Lima 1.


70 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » BRAZIL » ARGENTINA » BOLIVIA » PERU

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OCEAN TO OCEAN


HUMMINGBIRD CLASSIC JOURNEY

21 DAYS, 20 NIGHTS Rio de Janeiro: staggering city set between forested mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Magnificent falls at Iguazú, on the Brazilian/Argentinian border. Buenos Aires: Charming, sophisticated and vibrant. The indigenous, the colonial and the modern mix on Bolivia’s lofty capital, La Paz. Shimmering waters and island communities on high altitude Lake Titicaca. Inca and colonial treasures in bustling Cusco. Jungle-clad mountain citadel of Machu Picchu, an Inca masterpiece.

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EXTENSION


The Galápagos Islands, situated 965km off the Ecuadorian mainland, offer an incredible show of unique flora and fauna. Finish your South American holiday with an unforgettable 7-night cruise around the archipelago.



Below: Machu Picchu; set high in the Andean Mountains, above the Urubamba River valley.


A WELL-ORGANISED TRIP WITH LOTS OF INTERESTING THINGS TO SEE AND DO WITH PEOPLE WE GOT ON WELL WITH AND AKNOWLEDGABLE, FRIENDLY, HELPFUL GUIDE.JR, SWANSEA

Above: Aerial view of the bays and beaches of Rio de Janeiro.

Right: Titicaca contains 41 islands, many populated by the descendants of indigenous peoples.

Below right: Buenos Aires’ Palermo neighbourhood has lots of traditional houses adapted into boutique shops, cafés and bars, creating a bohemian feel.

Far right: Aerial view of the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls.

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SR2021 03 Feb 20 22 Feb 20 £6,048 £6,988SR2022 06 Mar 20 25 Mar 20 £6,088 £7,018SR2023 16 Oct 20 04 Nov 20 £5,668 £6,598SR2024 13 Nov 20 02 Dec 20 £6,088 £7,018


Single supplement: SR2021 £1,587; SR2022 & SR2024 £1,619; SR2023 £1,212Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

BRAZIL

Santiago

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Punta Arenas

Torres del Paine

Bariloche

PuertoVaras

Buenos Aires

Iguazú

Rio de JaneiroCHILE

ARGENTINA

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Andes

Andes

PARAGUAY

UK clients depart, arriving Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the same day.Day 1 Overnight at a hotel overlooking Copacabana beach.Days 2,3 Excursion by cable car to the summit of Sugar Loaf mountain, overlooking the bays and beaches of Rio. Trip by cog railway through succulent tropical vegetation to the Christ the Redeemer statue on Mount Corcovado. Day 4 Fly to Foz do Iguaçu and cross the Argentinian border. Stop for a breathtaking panorama of the Iguazú Falls. Accommodation is in a lush rainforest setting. Day 5 Explore the falls from a series of walkways that get up close to the tumultuous cataracts as they crash over a basalt precipice, cloaked in lush bird-filled forest. Days 6-8 Fly to Buenos Aires. City tour of the graceful historic quarters of Argentina’s European-style capital. Time to explore the parks, shops and restaurants. Optional excursion by boat on the River Plate to Colonia, Uruguay. Days 9,10 Fly to Bariloche in the heart of the lake district. Travel the

Circuito Chico for mesmerising views of the local scenery. Further optional walks or cable car rides in the pristine natural surroundings. Day 11 Cross the Andes by road and boat from Bariloche to Puerto Varas. A staggering journey in the shadow of conical volcanoes,

across glacial lakes and between sheer rock faces and snow-capped peaks.Day 12 Optional full-day excursion to Chiloé, a rural island steeped in legend and tradition. Opportunities to spot Humboldt and Magellanic penguins.Day 13 Fly south and drive into the Torres del Paine National Park. Accommodation is in a luxury permanent camp: contemporary heated yurts, hotel-style facilities allow comfort among the elements and in view of the Andes’ granite massifs. Here you will enjoy a full board program – including all food, drinks and excursions.Days 14,15 Choose from a wide range of included activities around the hotel or in the park itself – enjoying some of the continent’s wildest and most stunning scenery, where striking blue lagoons reflect the towering ice-clad peaks.Day 16 Drive to Punta Arenas on the Magellan straits. Day 17 Fly to Chile’s cosmopolitan capital, Santiago.Day 18 Excursion into the Mediterranean-style countryside around the city to a vineyard, to sample some of its famous produce. Day 19 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 5 flights (2-4hrs each); 3 scenic road journeys (longest 6hrs). Accommodation Upper mid-range and first class properties. Meals Breakfast daily; Full board during your 3 night stay in Torres del Paine – includes alcoholic beverages. Included excursions • Rio city tour• Corcovado and Sugar Loaf mountains• Iguazú Falls (both sides)• Guided tour of Buenos Aires• Circuito Chico in Bariloche• Lake crossing from Argentina to Chile• Choice of daily excursions in

Torres del Paine• Vineyard visit near Santiago Summary of nights Rio 3; Iguazú 2; Buenos Aires 3; Bariloche 2; Puerto Varas 2; Torres del Paine 3; Punta Arenas 1; Santiago 2. Group size Min 4, max 20. Led by Journey Latin America tour leader.

72 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » BRAZIL » ARGENTINA » CHILE

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Below: Caminito, built over an old railway in the heart of La Boca, is an open-air museum enlivened by tango singers and dancers.

ATLANTIC TO PACIFIC IN STYLE


SANDPIPER CLASSIC JOURNEY

19 DAYS, 18 NIGHTS Magnificent bays, beaches and high rises of Rio de Janeiro. Roaring cataracts of subtropical Iguazú Falls. Elegant Buenos Aires: shady plazas, Parisian boulevards and sultry tango. Stunning scenery of mountains and forests in the Argentinian lake district. Andes crossing by boat: sparkling lakes, mountain peaks and snow-capped volcanoes. Dramatic, glacial landscapes in the Torres del Paine National Park.

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EXTENSION


Head up to the Atacama Desert, the driest in the world but full of interest with volcanoes, vivid lagoons, oases and indigenous villages. There are some fine properties to stay at, such as the much lauded explora en Atacama.




Above: A staggering 275 falls crash over a 60m precipice along 2.7km of the Iguazú River.

Left: The Lagoa Rodrigo Freitas behind Ipanema beach.

Right: The Osorno volcano is a short drive from Puerto Varas around the shimmering waters of Lake Llanquihue.

A REALLY FANTASTIC HOLIDAY. THE ORGANISATION, ACCOMMODATION, EXCURSIONS, FELLOW GROUPS MEMBERS AND OUR EXCELLENT TOUR LEADER ALL CONTRIBUTED TO A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE. DB, BEDFORD

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Torres del Paine—jagged peaks, glaciers, lagoons, waterfalls and wildlife can be viewed from scenic roads, clear walking paths, and leisure boats.

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LA2021 04 Jan 20 19 Jan 20 £4,038 £5,263LA2022 15 Feb 20 01 Mar 20 £4,038 £5,126LA2023 07 Mar 20 22 Mar 20 £4,038 £4,998LA2024 28 Mar 20 12 Apr 20 £4,038 £4,998LA2025 24 Oct 20 08 Nov 20 £4,038 £4,998LA2026 14 Nov 20 29 Nov 20 £4,038 £4,998LA2027 28 Nov 20 13 Dec 20 £4,038 £4,998LA2028 12 Dec 20 27 Dec 20 £4,038 £5,263


Single supplement: £1,198Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

Santiago

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Andes

CHILE

Andes

ARGENTINA

Buenos Aires

Ushuaia

Puerto Natales

Punta Arenas

El Calafate

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Torres del Paine

UK clients depart on overnight flight arriving in Santiago, Chile, on day 1.Day 1 Walking tour of Chile’s bustling capital, which sprawls at the foot of snow-capped Andes.Day 2 Optional excursion to a nearby vineyard to sample some excellent New World wines; or to the attractive port town of Valparaíso.Day 3 Fly to Patagonia and overnight in Punta Arenas, former shipping outpost on the wind-battered Straits of Magellan.

Days 4-6 Continue south along a lonely road through the Patagonian steppes via Last Hope Sound towards the crags of the Torres del Paine massif. Stop en route at Milodon cave. Three nights at a comfortable lodge in the national park, in which sheer rock faces and skinny pillars head heavenwards, and glacier walls dam mint green lakes dotted with icebergs the size of battleships. The park is home to guanaco, silver foxes and majestic, gliding condors. Optional walks from the

Transport 3 flights (longest 4hrs); 2 scenic land journeys (longest 6hrs).

Accommodation Mid-range and upper mid-range hotels and lodges.


Included excursions • Walking tour of Santiago • Milodon Cave• Boat trip on Lago Grey• Salto Grande in Torres del Paine• Perito Moreno glacier • Beagle Channel catamaran trip• Tierra del Fuego National Park• Guided tour of Buenos Aires

Summary of nights Santiago 2; Punta Arenas 1; Torres del Paine 3; El Calafate 3; Ushuaia 2; Buenos Aires 2.



hotel and excursions further afield, and included boat trip to the face of Glacier Grey. Day 7 By road, via the waterfall at Salto Grande, across the border into Argentina. Overnight at El Calafate, close to Lago Argentino, and base for visits to the massive ice-fields of Los Glaciares National Park.Days 8,9 Excursion to the Perito Moreno glacier, where walkways get up close to the massive ice wall. Optional boat trip to the ice fields, visit to an estancia or horse ride around the lake. Day 10 Fly to the island of Tierra del Fuego, and Ushuaia, a town crouched at the base of jagged peaks on the shores of the Beagle Channel. By boat into the channel among islands laden with penguins and sea-lions.Day 11 Excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park, where ancient forests cling to steep cliffs, and silvery creeks and peat bogs shelter beavers and bird life. Days 12,13 Optional excursion to Harberton Ranch, home of the first English missionaries. Fly to Buenos Aires, the elegant capital. City tour of the historic centre and the colourful port district of La Boca, home of the tango. Optional boat trip across the River Plate to Colonia, Uruguay.Day 14 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Above: The imposing Perito Moreno glacier.

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PATAGONIAN ODYSSEY


LAPWING CLASSIC JOURNEY

14 DAYS, 13 NIGHTS Haunting beauty in the Torres del Paine National Park: icebergs, lagoons and towering peaks. Perito Moreno glacier: vast, dynamic ice wall in vivid blue. Ancient forests, lakes and fjords in Tierra del Fuego, stunning archipelago of the south. Argentina’s vibrant, cultured capital, Buenos Aires.

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EXTENSION


Extend your trip with a visit to the magnificent Iguazú Falls on the Argentinian/Brazilian border, and then continue to Rio de Janeiro, one of the most exciting cities on earth.




Main image: Torres del Paine National Park is one of Chile’s most popular destinations.

Right: The lighthouse at the ‘end of the world’ in the Beagle Channel.

Far right: Built on steep hillsides overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Valparaíso boasts a labyrinth of streets and cobblestone alleyways. Nicknamed ‘The Jewel of the Pacific’, the city was declared a world heritage site based on its improvised urban design and unique architecture.

Far right (below): The colourful La Boca district of Buenos Aires is home to the famous Boca Juniors football club which developed the talents of a young Diego Maradona.

IT WAS EXCITING JUST BEING IN PATAGONIA. THE HIKE IN TORRES DEL PAINE AND THE PROFUNDA RANCH VISIT IN EL CALAFATE WERE WONDERFUL BECAUSE THEY WERE MORE PERSONAL THAN THE USUAL TOURIST TRIPS. I LOVED IT ALL AND COULD NOT HAVE BEEN BETTER.SG, BERWICK-UPON-TWEED

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AN AMAZING MIX OF EXPERIENCES RIGHT FROM THE START! DR, BALDOCK


AR2021 15 Feb 20 28 Feb 20 £2,874 £3,988AR2022 02 May 20 15 May 20 £2,874 £3,888AR2023 18 Jul 20 31 Jul 20 £2,874 £3,988AR2024 10 Oct 20 23 Oct 20 £2,874 £3,888



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Andes

ARGENTINA

Buenos Aires

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Iguazú Falls•Salta

Mendoza

Andes

CHILE

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PARAGUAY

Santiago•

BRAZIL

BOLIVIA

WE VISITED AWE- INSPIRING PLACES OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY ACCOMPANIED BY LOCAL, PASSIONATE, KNOWLEDGEABLE GUIDES WHO REALLY ADDED TO OUR EXPERIENCE. ARGENTINA IS REALLY AN AMAZING COUNTRY! DO, LONDON


UK clients depart, arriving in Santiago, Chile, early morning on day 1. Day 1 Walking tour of colonial Santiago and San Cristóbal Hill for views across the city, and to the magnificent Andean ridge beyond.Day 2 Included excursion to the colourful seaport of Valparaiso and a local vineyard, situated west of the capital on the Pacific coast.Day 3 Jet across the Andes to the laid-back city of Mendoza. Walking tour of the city.Day 4 Full day tour of some of the world-class wineries that surround the city. You will learn about the cultivation and production of the local grapes and there is an included lunch and of course wine tasting. Days 5-7 Fly north to Salta, an attractive colonial town at the foot of the Andes, with an elegant baroque cathedral, interesting museums and good food. Excursion through blood red canyon country to the vineyards of Cafayate to sample some wines. Optional trip to Humahuaca Gorge, where the villages retain their pre-conquest indigenous Andean culture.

Days 8,9 By air to Puerto Iguazú, gateway to the Iguazú Falls, a staggering 275 cateracts which tumble over a tropical precipice on the border with Brazil. Guided tour along the wooden walkways that meander up close to the individual torrents of water amid dense jungle, on both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides.Day 10 Journey south by plane to cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. In the afternoon enjoy a tour of the city including visits to the bohemian La Boca, the historic heartland and affluent Recoleta.Day 11 Culinary themed lunchtime tour of San Telmo, where you will visit off-the-beaten-track eateries to taste authentic Argentine dishes. Afternoon free to further explore the city, relax in one of the street side cafés or take in a tango show.Day 12 Depart for international flight or extension. UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 4 flights (longest 2hrs).

Accommodation Mid-range and upper mid-range hotels.

Meals Breakfast daily; lunch days 4,11.

Included excursions • Walking tour of Santiago • Walking tour of Mendoza • Day trip to Valparaíso with vineyard• Full day Mendoza wineries tour• Cafayate canyons and wineries• Iguazú Falls (both sides)• Guided tour of Buenos Aires• Parilla tour of San Telmo

Summary of nights Santiago 2; Mendoza 2; Salta 3; Iguazú 2; Buenos Aires 2.


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VINTAGE ARGENTINA


GAUCHO CLASSIC JOURNEY

12 DAYS, 11 NIGHTS Fascinating and varied Argentina: from deserts and gorges to jungles and vineyards. Elegant Buenos Aires: colonial and belle époque architecture, extensive parks and excellent restaurants. Iguazú Falls, extraordinary cataracts in the glorious subtropics. The remote northwest: striking landscapes and indigenous villages. The world famous wineries of Mendoza and the fertile slopes of the Andes. Stately Santiago and the historic port of Valparaiso in neighbouring Chile.

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Argentina is famous for its estancias, many of which welcome visitors. Whether they produce fine wines or raise horses, they offer a fine countryside experience with excellent food and service.


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Top: Cerro de los Siete Colores in Purmamarca.

Above: Visit world-class wineries across Argentina.

Right: The Iguazú Falls, the largest in the world spanning just under 3km in length, with approximately 275 different cascades.


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Above: ‘Salta la Linda’ (Salta the beautiful), is an apt nickname for a city blessed with an abundance of colonial architecture, ever-present blue skies and picturesque nearby valleys.

Right: The streets of Valparaíso are lined with bright and bold street art.

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EVERY PLACE WE VISITED IS JUST SO DIFFERENT, IT’S HARD TO PICK THE MOST MEMORABLE. I LOVED IT ALL.SB, ILKLEY


PS2021 07 Jan 20 22 Jan 20 £4,871 £6,098PS2022 04 Feb 20 19 Feb 20 £4,871 £5,888PS2023 25 Feb 20 11 Mar 20 £4,871 £5,998PS2024 13 Oct 20 28 Oct 20 £4,616 £5,638PS2025 27 Oct 20 11 Nov 20 £5,033 £6,058PS2026 17 Nov 20 02 Dec 20 £5,033 £6,058PS2027 01 Dec 20 16 Dec 20 £5,033 £6,168


Single supplement: £1,531 Business class flight supplement: Upgrades to business class and premium economy cabins (where available) can be added for a supplement.Please ask us for the latest offers and prices.2021 tour dates: Please enquire with one of our consultants.

•CHILE

Andes

ARGENTINA

Santiago

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San Pedrode Atacama

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Andes

PuertoVaras

ChiloéIsland

•Valparaíso

Punta Arenas•Torres del Paine National Park •

ATLANTIC OCEAN

PARAGUAY

Right: Alonso de Ercilla, 16th century poet, said of the Atacama desert: “you see a land without men, where there is not a bird, not a beast, nor a tree, nor any vegetation”.

UK clients depart on overnight flight arriving in on day 1.Day 1 Walking tour of colonial Santiago and San Cristóbal Hill for views across the city, and to the magnificent Andean ridge beyond.Day 2 Optional excursions to the colourful port at Valparaíso, or to a nearby vineyard.Days 3-5 Fly north to San Pedro, a dusty, adobe village in the heart of the spectacular Atacama Desert. Included and optional excursions

to geysers, lagoons and pre-Inca fortresses.Days 6-8 Fly south to the lake district and continue by road to Puerto Varas, a pretty resort on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, with views across to the perfect snow-capped cone of the Osorno volcano. Included excursions to the turquoise, glacial waters at Petrohué Falls; and by boat across Lake Todos Los Santos, amid stunning scenery. Optional visit

to Chiloé, a traditional island with distinctive wooden architecture and age-old agricultural practices, and home to penguins, sea-lions, excellent sea food, and prolific bird life.Day 9 Fly to the heart of Patagonia, with sensational aerial views of the ice fields on a clear day. Wind-buffeted, tawny steppes are pitted with lagoons and punctuated with dramatic mountain ranges. Continue by road towards the Torres del Paine National Park. Here you will enjoy a full board program – including all food, drinks and excursions.Days 10,11 Choose from a wide range of included activities around the hotel or in the park itself - enjoying some of the continent’s wildest and most stunning scenery, where striking blue lagoons reflect the towering ice-clad peaks.Day 12 By road to Punta Arenas, stopping en route at the Milodon Cave just south of the park.Day 13 Fly to Santiago for your final night. Day 14 Depart for international flight or extension.UK clients arrive home the following day.

Transport 4 flights (longest 4hrs); 4 scenic land journeys (longest 6hrs).

Accommodation Mid-range, upper mid-range and first class hotels.

Meals Breakfast daily; Lunch day 4; Full board during your 3 night stay in Torres del Paine – includes alcohol.

Included excursions • Walking tour of Santiago• Moon Valley • Atacama salt flats and lakes • Petrohué Falls• Lago Todos Los Santos• Choice of daily excursions in

Torres del Paine

Summary of nights Santiago 2; San Pedro 3; Puerto Varas 3; Torres del Paine 3; Punta Arenas 1; Santiago 1.


78 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 » CHILE

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Above: Torres del Paine National Park.

EXTREMES OF CHILE


PENGUIN CLASSIC JOURNEY

14 DAYS, 13 NIGHTS Dazzling salt pans and snow-tipped volcanoes in the Atacama Desert. Perfect volcanic cones and ancient forests in the lake district. Dramatic mountain scenery in the Torres del Paine National Park. Hanging glaciers, floating icebergs and glacial lakes in the heart of Patagonia, home to abundant wildlife.

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EXTENSION


Leave the Penguin Journey on day 13 and embark on one of the world’s most beautiful journeys —across the Andes by road and boat into Argentina.

Please enquire for details.


HIGHLIGHT? ENJOYING THE STILLNESS OF THE SOLAR DE ATACAMA WITH ONLY FEW PEOPLE AROUND. PB, LONDON


Above: Osorno volcano in Chile’s Lake District.

Right: Take a boat trip on the emerald green waters of Lake Todos Los Santos.

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EXTENSIONS

No need to miss outIf there’s somewhere you particularly want to go that isn’t included in your Journey itinerary, don’t worry. We can add on an extension to take you there before or after the group trip.

Tap into our knowledgeHere we really do need to blow our own trumpet—with more than 50 staff, some of whom have been with us for over 25 years, and all of whom travel regularly around Latin America, we have put together a diverse selection of flexible itineraries to add on to your trip and help you make the absolute most of your holiday.

Many of these extensions are fully flexible, in terms of what you do, where you stay and how you get there. Others, such as cruises or treks, necessarily follow a fixed route. None is escorted by your tour leader; where appropriate they will be led by an English speaking local guide, often with relevant expertise. A sample of what we can offer is featured here, and popular extensions are listed on our website. In addition, our consultants—specialists in the region—are well-placed to offer advice, suggest various alternatives, and help put together the perfect trip for you. Over the following pages we suggest a variety of extensions: relaxing at a modern spa, or on a palm-fringed beach; spotting wildlife; walking or driving through outstanding scenery; seeking out historical or contemporary culture; sampling regional cuisine and wines; or trying your hand at something more active, like horse-riding or kayaking.

THE AMAZON OF PERU, ECUADOR AND BRAZIL

The Amazon rainforest is a vast, often impenetrable tropical wilderness, home to thousands of species of flora and fauna. A visit really makes your Journey in Peru, Ecuador or Brazil complete. Excellent jungle lodges are accessible via a short flight or a longer journey by road and by boat. All offer full board and a programme of activities and excursions into the rainforest led by naturalist guides. You can also take a river cruise.

PERU: Only a 1-hour flight from Cusco, the river-port of Puerto Maldonado gives access to a number of jungle lodges with excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. There are also lodges in the region around Iquitos (a 2 hour flight from Lima), a port from which cruises depart through the jungle.ECUADOR: Amazonia can easily and quickly be accessed from Quito by air, or road and river transport. Lodges here are surprisingly comfortable given their isolation and many are run by the local community.BRAZIL: Manaus, a direct flight from Rio or São Paulo, is the gateway to the Brazilian jungle. There’s a range of accommodation, from rustic lodges to more upmarket properties; and cruises from 4 – 8 days in length. Connects with all journeys starting/ending in Peru, Ecuador and Brazil.

There are a number of eco-friendly, low-key, comfortable lodges, accessible from either Campo Grande or Cuiabá. Each offers activities including wildlife observation by boat safari, on horseback or on foot, on a full board basis, with most people staying 3 nights. Connects with journeys starting/ending Rio.

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

A short flight off the coast of mainland Ecuador, astride the equator in the Pacific ocean, lie the Galápagos Islands. These peaks of gigantic submarine volcanoes have never been attached to the continent, and over the millennia birds, reptiles and plants have come to adapt to their unique environment. It’s one of the greatest wildlife shows on earth, home to dragon-like iguanas, sea-lions, flamingoes, crimson breasted frigate birds, blue footed boobies; and a rich variety of landscape, from lava scorched rocks, to rich woodland and white sand beaches. The archipelago is usually appreciated by cruising around the islands. Vessels, from small motor cruisers to luxurious liners, operate varying itineraries from 3 – 8 days long. If you prefer not to sail, there are a number of excellent land-based options. Details of accommodation, cruises and itineraries can be found on our website, or speak to one of our consultants.

WILDLIFE

With much of Latin America still in its natural state, the prolific wildlife is left to roam undisturbed. Times are changing: the modern world and expanded areas of cultivation are definitely making an impact, but you can still find places, surprisingly accessible, where you can observe this flora and fauna close up, from your base at a jungle lodge or on a cruise.

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WILDLIFE WILDERNESSIN THE PANTANAL

The vast Brazilian Pantanal wetlands boast anextraordinary abundance of birds and wildlife. This protected wilderness is, according to season, home to flocks of parakeets, macaws and giant storks. In the dry season (Apr-Nov) caiman laze on riverbanks. You may also spot giant capybaras, armadillos, anteaters and howler monkeys. This huge concentration of birds, reptiles and mammals coexist with the cattle in this marshy grassland and, because of the sparse vegetation, are all easy to spot.




BEACH WIND-DOWNS

Few of our itineraries offer you much opportunity to lounge on the beach—this is not time most gratifyingly spent in a group. However a few days on the coast is a great way to round off a busy, invigorating holiday. Most of our group itineraries begin or end somewhere within reasonable reach of a sandy beach or rocky cove with excellent hotel facilities.

THE MAYAN RIVIERA

The beaches of Mexico are some of the best on the continent, from the white powder sands of the Caribbean coast to the rocky coves and rolling surf of the Pacific, and there are some excellent hotels from which to enjoy them.

There are many properties on the Mayan Riviera, spread along the coast, where creamy beaches meet tropical forests. All of which are convenient if ending your journey in Cancún. There are also several attractive, mid-range hotels close to the resort of Playa del Carmen, and the iconic cliff-edge ruins of Tulum. Connects with journeys ending in Cancún or any end destination with flights to Mexico.

URUGUAY

This tiny, friendly country on the eastern shore of the River Plate, maintains a character of its own. Renowned for its beef-rearing grasslands, it also boasts glamorous golden beaches and plush hotels, perfect for a wind down after any group tour.Connects with journeys starting/ending in Buenos Aires.

AMBERGRIS CAYE

Fly to the coral island of Ambergris Caye off the coast of Belize, and spend a few days at the first-class plantation style Victoria House. Alternatively pick one of the other stunning properties or cayes that stretch the length of the Caribbean coast.Connects with journeys ending in Belize.

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ILHA GRANDE

Down the ‘green coast’ from Rio lies Ilha Grande, a beautiful, forested island where tourism is kept low-key and informal. Trails lead across the lush, undulating interior and there are glorious beaches hidden among rocky coves. Accommodation ranges from hippyish to boutique, and the atmosphere is laid-back and utterly relaxing.Connects with journeys starting/ending Rio.

THE BEACHES OF CUBA

Cuban beaches combine the best of the Caribbean’s famous translucent turquoise seas and sugary sand with pristine cleanliness and unspoilt landscapes. There are a number of resorts around the island, which vary in terms of facilities and accessibility. Some, such as Varadero (left), are busy strips with a number of hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs; others are situated on remote islands (cayos), including Cayo Las Brujas and Cayo Levisa, with pearl white beaches and good snorkelling.

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BUZIOS

Just up the road from Rio de Janeiro lies the Armação de Búzios peninsula; a sophisticated, informal resort scattered around a series of pretty bays. Cobbled streets and small, low-rise pousadas give it a Mediterranean feel; its many stylish open-air bars, restaurants, boutiques and galleries are patronised by well-to-do Brazilians as well as foreign tourists. Outside the busy high season (Dec–Feb), the tranquillity and natural beauty make for a relaxing stay. Connects with all journeys starting/ending in Rio.

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EXTENSIONS

NATURAL AND CULTURAL LANDSCAPES

You will be seeing many of the countries’ natural and cultural highlights as you pass through them on your group journeys, but it’s not possible to include everything. Some extensions are obvious and logical—for example, a visit to Easter Island is a popular choice for those visiting Chile. Others are rather less well-known, or more specialised, including estancia stays (wine, gastronomy, horse-riding) in Argentina. You may add on just a couple of days to see the Maya ruins at Tikal or the Nazca Lines in Peru; or a week or more to cruise to the ‘white continent’, Antarctica. The next four pages feature a few ideas to whet your appetite.

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THE FJORDS OF CHILE AND ARGENTINA

Patagonia, a wilderness of windswept steppes, jagged mountains and glaciers, is a landscape which feels truly remote. Nowadays, however, it can be visited in comfort: there are first class estancias in stunning countryside and state-of-the-art hotels, and luxurious motor-vessels that offer cruises exploring the innermost secrets of the ice. The fjords of southern Chile configure a fairy-tale land of deep, forested valleys, hanging glaciers and tiny maritime settlements. Further south, cruises explore the Beagle Channel and Tierra del Fuego, and even take you to rugged Cape Horn.Connects with journeys that pass through Ushuaia, Puerto Natales and Punta Arenas. *Cruises last from 4-7 days.

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THE GLACIERS OF ARGENTINIAN PATAGONIA

Cross the border from Chilean Patagonia to the Argentinian side of the jagged, ice-capped Andes range and stay in El Calafate, a little resort town on wilderness plains close to the edge of the milky, turquoise waters of Lago Argentino. From here, visit the towering ice walls of the Perito Moreno glacier and the traditional ranch at Estancia Cristina. Both tourist and first class options are available. Round off your holiday with a couple of days in Argentina’s elegant capital, Buenos Aires.Connects with journeys nearing the end in Torres del Paine.

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ANTARCTICA

A century after the first expeditions, the most popular form of access to this vast continent is still by sea. However in the last few years some commercial flights have started operating to this distant land. Cruises navigate their way between yawning ice fields, and mountains of staggering beauty, across waters that reflect the changing moods of the southern sky. Huge conglomerations of penguins, and sea-lions, albatrosses and other seabirds lay on a spectacular display.

Some of our journeys have Ushuaia, the gateway to the ‘white continent’, or Punta Arenas on the Chilean side of the border, as a port of call. You may leave the group here to join a cruise, or travel south by air at the end of your journey. There is a wide selection of ships— from small expeditionary vessels to larger cruise ships with comprehensive facilities. *Cruises last from 1-3 weeks.

USHUAIA, TIERRA DEL FUEGO

For those whose group itinerary nears its end in Patagonia, an extension can be added to Ushuaia (a short flight from El Calafate). This, the world’s most southerly city, and a busy port at the tip of the Andes range, is your base for explorations to the bays, lakes, rivers and peaks of the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Cruise down the Beagle Channel spotting penguins, and pay a visit to the historic Harberton Ranch, before flying north for a final night in Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, Buenos Aires.Connects with journeys nearing the end in El Calafate.


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FITZ ROY

If your journey itinerary nears its end in El Calafate, you can choose to extend your time in Argentinian Patagonia before you travel north to Buenos Aires. Take the bus from El Calafate along a recently paved road (3–4 hours) to the small mountain resort of El Chaltén. From here there are splendid scenic walks in the rugged countryside at the foot of the towering slabs of rock and icy pinnacles forming the Fitz Roy massif. Lakes sparkle like gemstones and the views are of CinemaScope proportions. Round off your holiday with two nights in the elegant capital, Buenos Aires.Connects with journeys nearing the end in El Calafate.

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ATACAMA DESERT

The Atacama Desert, where it approaches the Bolivian border, is a high-altitude landscape of volcanoes, salt lakes and supreme, rugged beauty. The Moon Valley, the geysers at El Tatio, and pretty mountain villages such as Toconao are among a host of attractions here. Stay in comfortable accommodation in San Pedro, an adobe town that is the hub for visits to the region, or at a more luxurious hotel, where excursions and excellent meals are included.Connects with journeys starting/ending Santiago.

THE IGUAZU FALLS

Perhaps the most stunning sight in Latin America is the Iguazú Falls: a 2.7km chain of 275 cataracts tumble and roar over a 60m precipice in a protected, sub-tropical rainforest that is alive with birds and butterflies. The cataracts straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil, and on either side there is a range of accommodation, from spacious tourist-class hotels to first-class traditional or contemporary establishments, many of which are set in extensive grounds with outside pool. Two nights in Iguazú is normally sufficient to see both sides of the falls, before flying home via Sao Paulo or continuing for a few days in Rio de Janeiro.Connects with journeys starting/ending in Buenos Aires/Rio.

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COPPER CANYON, MEXICO

The Copper Canyon has some of the continent’s most awe-inspiring mountain scenery, with scores of epic gorges and ravines, some of which are deeper than the Grand Canyon. A spectacular rail journey begins in Chihuahua and climbs into the Sierra Madre, where a night is spent on the canyon rim. The descent crosses bridges, passes through tunnels and around sweeping bends to arrive at Los Mochis. Access is from Chihuahua in the north of Mexico. Connects with journeys starting/ending in Mexico City.

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PERU’S NAZCA LINES

No one knows for sure why an ancient, unknown civilisation etched huge geometric markings—the Nazca Lines—into the desert south of Lima. Their scale and complexity can be best appreciated from the air. You can either concentrate just on the lines themselves or combine your extension with a visit to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands just off the coast from Paracas. Connects with journeys starting/ending in Lima.

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THE AVENUE OF THE VOLCANOES, ECUADOR

Travel along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, bracketed by dramatic, snowy peaks, to Riobamba, and the colourful indian markets at Saquisilí or Latacunga in the central highlands. Continue by road and rail to Cuenca, stopping at Ingapirca, the country’s most important Inca ruins, en route. Sixteenth-century colonial Cuenca is a delightful base from which to explore local handicraft markets and Las Cajas National Park—a vast wilderness of high páramo and turquoise lakes.Connects with journeys starting/ending in Guayaquil.

EASTER ISLAND

Polynesian Easter Island lies 3,790km off the coast of Chile. This tiny, treeless territory, triangular in shape and with a volcano in each corner, has only 5,000 inhabitants, and is famed for its vast, brooding stone statues or moai. The balmy climate and the genuine warmth of the inhabitants make this unspoilt destination one of our most popular. Our featured extensions include a 3-4 night stay at a secluded hotel, but there are a number of properties to choose from as well as shorter or longer stays. Connects with journeys starting/ending Santiago.


EXTENSIONS


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LAKE ATITLAN

Guatemala is a deeply traditional country, where indigenous and colonial culture and ritual have blended and developed over the centuries, and remain a unique feature of contemporary life. It’s also blessed with gorgeous scenery, dominated by around 35 volcanoes. Lake Atitlán is a mystical body of water surrounded by volcanic cones and tiny farmsteads. Visit a couple of the little towns along the shore, where traditional costume is still worn. Connects with tours starting/ending in Antigua.

ESTANCIA STAYS

In colonial times, large tracts of land in Latin America were divided into estates—estancias or haciendas, which had elegant, palatial residences. Some of these estates have been refurbished and opened up to visitors: a few have been converted into luxury hotels, and a number are still operating ranches or wineries. They offer visitors a warm family-style welcome, excellent facilities and a range of activities from wine-tasting and bird-watching to nature trails and horse riding. One of our favourites is La Bamba in Argentina, but you can also spend several days unwinding in estancias in Chile, Mexico or Ecuador.

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SALVADOR DA BAHIA

The coastal city of Salvador is an unmissable highlight of Brazil, and integral to an understanding of the country. Here, the African slave influence is dominant, with food, dance and religious ritual all harking back to the mother continent, and there is some of the best Portuguese colonial architecture in the country—beautifully restored. It’s a joyous place, heaving with music,alive with colour, and with some glorious beaches nearby. Connects with journeys starting/ending in Rio.

MORE SUGGESTED EXTENSIONS ON OUR WEBSITE

For more suggested extensions please refer to the individual holiday pages on our website. All extensions are tailor-made—if you are unsure how they fit together with your particular journey, or would like to consider other options, please call us to discuss your requirements. A consultant will be able to advise you, and help piece together the extension you are looking for.

TIKAL

If your holiday in Central America doesn’t include a trip to the ruined Maya city of Tikal, it is easy to add on a visit to what many regard as the most awe-inspiring archaeological site on the continent. From Antigua, it is a short drive to Guatemala City, for the hour-long flight to Flores. Accommodation is in a jungle lodge in the heart of the tropical national park, or the island town of Flores, your base for a two-day visit to the ruins. There is a guided tour of the temples and pyramids, from which you can look out over a jungle canopy full of monkeys and parrots. Fly back to Guatemala City for a final night.Connects with journeys starting/ending in Guatemala.

EASTER ISLAND EXTENSION SHOULD BE RECOMMENDED TO ALL, IT WAS MAGICAL. THE MOAI WERE AMAZING.JD, BUXTON

TRIP DOSSIERS

HowmanydaysarewegoingtostayinRio? DoIneedtotakewalkingboots? HowwillIgetholdoflocalmoney? Isitgoingtobehot?

These and many other questions are answered on the corresponding group journey pages of our website. But you don’t necessarily want to log on just to remind yourself which excursions are included. So we have created a print-friendly version of our Trip Dossiers, which you can print off and keep for quick and easy consultation.

Each trip dossier includes a detailed day-by-day itinerary, with a few inspirational images, and our invaluable Essential Information, in which we address your possible queries in an easily readable format.

Go to journeylatinamerica.co.uk now to discover all the

necessary information related to each of our group tours.


REALLY HELPFUL DOSSIER AND ITINERARY – THE PACKING LIST WAS INVALUABLE AS WE HAD TO PACK FOR SO MANY DIFFERENT THINGS, E.G. HIKING 12 MILES AND A NEW YEAR’S EVE TANGO PARTY!AT, LONDON

GROUP TRAVELLER LOYALTY SCHEME

If, like us, you have a passion for Latin America, then we’re sure you’ll want to go back to discover more of the continent, and as loyal customers you deserve to be rewarded. We’re offering £100pp off when booking a second Group Tour with us.

If you’re a true lover of Latin America and book yourself on to a third (or more) Group Tour, then we’re offering £150pp off each trip.

Speak to your Travel Consultant to apply the discount to your booking. Terms and conditions apply.

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ITINERARY Detailed holiday itineraries with loads more inspirational photos.

TRIP DOSSIERS Each journey has a specific dossier packed with information and advice about what to take, the likely weather, money matters and much more. You can download it or print it out for easy reference.

DATES AND PRICES Check out the dates and prices for each journey, including details of the ‘tour-only’ cost, for those wanting to join the trip in Latin America.

EXTENSIONS You’ll find a huge selection of suggested tailor-made add-ons to your group holiday, with up-to-date prices. HIGHLIGHTS

Browse our recommended ‘Places to visit’ and ‘Things to do’ in your chosen destination. We’ve been pioneering travel to every corner of Latin America for over 38 years and here we share our favourite ‘must-see’ attractions and choice of activities that you can enjoy in the area.

DESTINATIONS We’ll introduce you to all our destinations with an at-a-glance summary of their key attractions, a photo gallery and essential information on visas, vaccinations and the best times of year to visit.

HOTELS You’ll be able to take a look at a sample of the hotels used on the journeys, to give you an idea of their style and standard.

REVIEWS We publish reviews and ratings for you to see what our past clients have said about each of our journeys.

SHARE Send a link for your friends and family to see the holiday you’ve found using our quick share buttons. You can also share it on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

BOOK ONLINE If you’re satisfied you’ve found the Journey you are looking for, and are ready to book, use our secure online booking engine to pay your deposit and confirm your place on the tour.

ACCOMMODATION We’ve inspected thousands of hotels all across Latin America to bring you a selection of our favourites. With options for the budget-conscious as well as for lovers of luxury, you can browse through a wide range of styles and standards of accommodation via our ‘Accommodation’ tab.

IN THE PRESS We regularly send journalists from all the top newspapers and travel publications off to discover hidden corners of Latin America, and in ‘About Us’ you’ll find a wide selection of coverage of Journey Latin America in the UK press.

FOR MORE ON OUR SMALL GROUP HOLIDAYS... AND A FEAST OF OTHER INFORMATION

If you want to find out even more about our group holidays visit our website where you can search the trips by country, duration or your preferred style of travel. As well as an overview of the tour, you’ll find a detailed itinerary, selection of images, a list of hotels used on each journey, a trip dossier, ideas for extensions to your trip, and reviews from past clients.

As pioneers of Latin American travel, from time-to-time we offer unique, one-off group holidays that visit regions and areas rarely, if ever, visited by other tours. These exclusive group tours are only listed on our website, and you will be alerted to them if you sign up to our monthly e-newsletter.

As well as the plethora of information about our group holidays, our website has more detailed information about the individual countries and their highlights. It also allows you to book flights and browse through a huge range of our private holidays and hotels.

To keep updated with what’s new and exciting in Latin America, visit the Travel Inspiration area of our website (journeylatinamerica.co.uk/travel-inspiration). It’s packed with details of upcoming festivals and events, expert advice, travel articles, blogs and recipes that bring the continent to life. You’ll also find competitions giving you the chance to win great prizes including holidays to Latin America.

JOURNEYLATINAMERICA.CO.UK87 Escorted Small Group Holidays 2020 *GOLD TRUSTED

SERVICE AWARD 2018Feefo


IT IS GOOD THAT JLA WATCH SUSTAINABILITY WHERE THEY CAN AND WE WERE HAPPY THAT SMALL LOCAL INDUSTRIES WERE SUPPORTED AS WELL AS HOTELS. TC, CHESTER

I FELT THAT OUR VISIT HELPED LOCAL PEOPLE AND ECONOMIES. I TRIED TO BUY LOCAL AND GO TO LOCAL CAFÉS WHEREVER POSSIBLE AND WAS ENCOURAGED AND GIVEN TIME TO DO SO. PC, EALING

WE STAYED AT LOCAL HOTELS AND ATE IN LOCALLY RUN ESTABLISHMENTS. ALL OF OUR GUIDES DEMONSTRATED A REAL ENTHUSIASM FOR SHARING THEIR APPRECIATION OF THE LOCAL CULTURE, AND WERE WELL INFORMED AND UP TO DATE IN THEIR KNOWLEDGE. ML, CHELMSFORD

Our responsibilityThe LATA Foundation is the charitable arm of the Latin America Travel Association, dedicated to supporting a variety of different grassroots projects all over Latin America. It was established by members of the Latin America travel industry with the aim of giving back to the continent they love through social and environmental projects that truly make a difference to the lives of Latin American people. Over the past 10 years the Foundation has upheld this aim through a number of different initiatives. Projects supported include the provision of clean drinking water fountains to schools around Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, free dental care for hundreds of children in the ‘villas’ of Buenos Aires and the planting of more than 30,000 native trees in the Sacred Valley of Peru by local communities. Following several devastating natural disasters in the continent over the years, the Foundation is also able to support emergency relief to affected areas through working with trusted local organisations.

The relationships that the Foundation forms with the different charities running the projects begin

with a comprehensive application to assess their aims, objectives, management and implementation. Once a donation is agreed, members of the Foundation then maintain regular contact with the specific projects to offer support and guidance if needed, and to ensure the funds are allocated effectively. They also receive regular updates in the form of photographs, reports and general feedback. The LATA Foundation Projects Team and Trustees review the projects at the end of their funding agreements with the aim of seeing whether the Foundation can support the project further. They also regularly look at new applications and projects within the region.

Several of the Foundation’s current projects have particular links to tourism such as the Konojel Community Centre which supports Sabor del Sol, a small women’s co-operative in San Marcos, on Lake Atitlán in Guatemala. In May 2015, they opened a restaurant in the town for locals and tourists - the profits from this are then used to support other projects within the community. Kids Saving the Rainforest in Manuel Antonio, Costa

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Rica, runs tours of their animal sanctuary, where the Foundation has supported the release of a group of squirrel monkeys and a sloth release project. The focus of other projects includes helping young people in their education and personal development; funding for the Condor Trust in Quito allows disadvantaged teenagers to go through higher education. Children Change Colombia support a project helping young people develop personally and socially in an area of Bogotá where there is high risk of gang recruitment, while in Bolivia the Foundation supports vocational training for young people who have previously been homeless in Santa Cruz. There is a full list of the projects supported by the Foundation on their website www.latafoundation.org.

Several members of Journey Latin America staff volunteer their time to work on the LATA Foundation committees and the company has been a key supporter and donor of the charity since its inception in 2007.

For more information on the LATA Foundation, our achievements and how to get involved, please visit journeylatinamerica.co.uk

The Pintando Project

Journey Latin America will contribute to the community of Santa Catalina and the Pintando Project on the shores of Lake Atitlán, Guatemala by incorporating a visit to the project into excursions taken by clients. This will help to not only transform the lives of families living there but revive the local textile designs which the region is famous for. The Pintando Project does this by painting houses and public buildings in a contemporary manner with influences from traditional Mayan textile designs. Our aim is to help and get our customers actively involved in the project to rejuvenate the community, maintaining traditions and restoring the environment to make it a better place for locals and tourists alike.


BOOKING CONDITIONS

We’ve abbreviated this information so you’re more likely to consider reading it. However, it’s very important that you do read (and acknowledge that you’ve read) the Booking Conditions in full, which are on our website. Or we’ll be very happy to send you a printed copy on request. The direct link is at: www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk/information/booking-conditions. Additionally, if the detail of the Booking Conditions changes during the life of the brochure, we can update straight away.

Important Information Tourist amenitiesInfrastructure in Latin America has improved, but it’s still largely an underdeveloped continent—both for provision of amenities, and the standard of them. Even the most meticulously planned arrangements can, and do, go wrong.

Things that might go wrongThere may be moments of discomfort, and delays are a way of life. Your bags might be delayed or go missing. There are risks that may occur: travelling in mountainous terrain, the forces of nature and the limited medical facilities of some regions. Passenger seat belt regulations are not widely enforced. Clients booking these holidays implicitly accept the above.

ItinerariesThe itinerary of a trip will not be altered unless there is an unavoidable reason for it. But occasionally we may have to make small alterations to the accommodation, transport or order of an itinerary. In these circumstances, we won’t pay refunds or compensation.

Trip dossierFor all Classic and Discovery Journeys, we publish a Trip Dossier.�They’re�on�our�website,�you’ll�find�them�in�the�row of links above the text on the Journey description pages. Or just ring us ask for a printed version. They give a feel for what it’s like on each trip, with additional information on how to prepare. You don’t have to book anything to get this.

Briefing Dossier When you book, we send a comprehensive booklet with detailed information on visas, inoculations, recommended personal baggage, currency, climate and photography.

Visas and PassportsMore�detailed�information�is�in�our�Briefing�Dossier.� All visitors to Latin America require a full passport with at least six months’ validity after the date you leave Latin America. Apart from the three below, British passport holders require no visas to visit countries in Latin America.1. Suriname: Full visa issued on arrival in Suriname2. Cuba: Tourist Card before arrival3. USA: ESTA form to be completed online before arrival

at (UK) departure airport, even if you’ll just be changing planes in USA.

3. Canada: eTA form to be completed online before arrival at (UK) departure airport, even if you’ll be changing planes in Canada.

Airport transfers and flights There’s no additional charge for meeting you at the airport of the city where the trip starts provided you are travelling on an international flight arriving on the first day of the tour. Same if you’re departing on the last day. � � We�will�try�to�offer�seats�on�these�flights�to�clients�travelling on the published group tour dates. However this is not always possible and we may have to make other�flight�arrangements�for�you,�sometimes�at�extra�cost.�If�you�arrive/depart�on�different�days,�or�on�internal�flights,�we�will�charge�you�extra�if�you�need�transfers. All airline ‘tickets’ issued in the UK are now electronic�and�will�be�sent�by�email�and�first�class� post. Occasionally, paper tickets can still be issued in Latin America.

Documentation At�each�stage�of�the�booking�you�will�be�sent�a�financial�summary�or�confirmation.�Final�documents�are�usually ready for despatch 10 days to 2 weeks before departure date.

Over 70 (or not)If you’re 70 or over, we ask you to provide a self-assessment form,�attesting�fitness�to�travel�on�your�trip.�We�might�ask for a doctor’s note if we feel it to be necessary.

Card payments• If you pay by Debit or Credit Card: No surcharge • You can also pay by bank transfer or cheque with

no surcharge. Please ensure cheque payments are made in good time, as it takes 4 working days for us to�confirm�receipt.

Not included in the price of the holiday• Side trips or excursions designated in the brochure as

optional. • Travel insurance. • Tips, porterage, food other than stated, laundry, items

of a personal nature. • Entrance fees to some national parks, municipal taxes

and immigration fees. • Airport taxes. On the inbound (international) leg of flights�from�Latin�America�some�taxes�are�included�on the ticket and others not (the individual Trip Dossiers make it clear which are not).

Abbreviated Booking ConditionsThe Booking Conditions in full are on our website – www.journeylatinamerica.co.ukIf you would prefer, we are happy to send by post a version of these printed on paper. You must read the Booking Conditions in full.

ContractYour contract is with Journey Latin America Ltd. When you make a booking, you accept that you have read and are subject to the conditions set out in the Full Booking Conditions and Important Information. Your contract with us is also subject to the Terms and Conditions of Carriage of any airline used.

Deposits We need a deposit of £300 per person when you book. The deposit is non-refundable unless we cannot confirm�you�on�the�tour,�or�if�we�cancel�your�chosen�trip, including when the minimum numbers required for the tour has not been reached. You must read our FULL booking conditions before you pay a deposit. We�will�issue�a�confirmation,�at�which�point�we�have�accepted your booking and a contract exists.

Interim payments and Final paymentsFinal payment is due not less than 60 days before departure, or immediately if you book within 60 days of departure. However, it may be that to guarantee a price, we may have to ask you to pay in full for all or part of your holiday at an earlier date. Usually this involves the issue of�flight�tickets�which�can�carry�cancellation�penalties.

ChildrenChildren over 12 are treated as adults as far as pricing is concerned. There are sometimes reductions for one child (and sometimes two children) under 12 sharing the room of two accompanying adults.

Long-haul flights (usually transatlantic) Usually,�escorted-group�holidays�show�a�flights-inclusive price. Tailor-made/bespoke holidays usually show them separately. If, at the time you book, there is�a�lack�of�availability�in�the�specified�booking�class�on�any�particular�flight,�we’ll�offer�you�an�alternative�economy class seat and tell you if it’s more expensive (or cheaper!). We will not issue airline e-tickets until we have received full payment for them (see Interim payments above).

Land-only tours On�our�website,�we�offer�a�Land-Only�price�of�our�Classic and Discovery Journeys. This price excludes flights�to�the�start�of�your�trip.�We�strongly�recommend�you�do�not�confirm�or�pay�for�any�flight�or�other�non-refundable�arrangements�until�we�have�confirmed�in�writing your land-only reservation, and that the Journey has reached the minimum numbers to be viable. If you do, we do not accept responsibility for any costs incurred for cancellation of such services if your chosen trip does not confirm. � We�can�often�hold�flight�reservations�from�the�UK�without�having�to�confirm�or�pay�for�the�seats�immediately. If you would like us to do this for you, please choose the flight inclusive option when booking online.

Independent arrangements and discontinuous itinerariesIf�you�already�have�flight,�accommodation�or�transport�reservations in place when you book holidays with us, we accept no liability for dovetailing with these independent arrangements. Of course, we’ll do all we can to help.

Alterations by you before departureWe’ll do what we can to accommodate any reasonable changes – and, in principle, will only charge where we are ourselves liable for any costs.

Cancellations by youIf cancelled: Maximum charge:60 days or more Deposit (and interim before departure payment where appropriate)

Between 59-30 days 60% of tour cost or interimbefore departure payment (where appropriate) whichever greater

29 days or less 100% tour costbefore departure

Alteration or cancellation by you after commencement of travelWhere we believe it’s possible and sensible, we’ll allow you to do this, but there may be charges levied both for the new services, or for those already booked and unused. As a basic principle, no refund will be paid to clients who do not commence or complete a tour, extension, or sector.

Cancellations or alterations by JLAAlterationsWe might have to change your holiday plans before you go. Usually these are minor, we’ll notify you as soon as we can. Minor changes include: change of airline or�flight�routing,�alteration�of�flight�times�by�less�than� 12 hours, accommodation changes to the same or higher standard. We will not pay any compensation for minor changes. If we make a material change (a change before departure,�involving�a�significant�change�of�resort�or�ground�itinerary;�a�significant—usually�more�than�24�hours—change�of�outbound�flight�time)�you�may�cancel your booking and obtain a prompt and full refund of all money paid by you to us. If we make a material change within 8 weeks of departure, youwill also be entitled to compensation per person in accordance�with�the�notification�scale�opposite.Period�of�notification�before�scheduled�departure�date.�

Compensation 55-43 days .....................................................................................£1029-42 days ...................................................................................£2015-28 days ....................................................................................£300-14 days ......................................................................................£40Payment of compensation will not be made for any change or cancellation caused by force majeure.

CancellationsWe may cancel all or part of your travel arrangements, but NOT within 8 weeks of our booking departure date, except for force majeure, or if you haven’t paid, or where the minimum number of clients required to run an integral excursion or element of the trip is not met. We’ll try�to�offer�you�alternatives�(if�available)�or�a�full�refund�of�what you’ve paid us, but no compensation. If we have to cancel all or some of your travel arrangements for reasons beyond our control, we’ll offer�alternative�comparable�arrangements,�or�a�prompt full refund or the tour or cancelled element. If�the�alternative�is�cheaper�we�will�refund�the�difference.� If any of the causes for cancellation or amendments happens after the tour has started, or after we can tell you about it, our local supplier or tour leader is entitled to amend the arrangements on your behalf. If these are force majeure amendments, no compensation will be paid. However, where amendments are not force majeure, you will be entitled to compensation of £40 per person.

FCO Travel AdvisoriesIf�the�FCO�(www.fco.gov.uk)�offers�advice�against�all�or�non-essential travel to a country or area, we’ll follow the�recommendations�of�ABTA�and�offer�an�alternative�itinerary or if appropriate, a full refund. This does not apply if the FCO advice is to “consider postponing travel”. However, if we feel advice against travel is likely to�be�downgraded�shortly,�we�may�delay�the�offer�of�an alternative itinerary, or a full refund. See also “Your responsibilities”.

PricesExchange ratesPrices and airfares we quote are based on exchange rates which may vary several times over a year or more,�rather�than�at�a�single�defined�date.�The�website�however is always more up-to-date—the price of a Journey or tour may be varied at any time before we have accepted your booking.

SurchargesWhen�your�holiday�is�confirmed,�we�guarantee�we�will not surcharge for any additional costs associated with�currency�fluctuation,�government�(or�airport)�–�imposed�taxes/increases,�overflying�charges,�increase in scheduled airfares or other transport costs action. The only exception is in limited circumstances (particularly with cruise arrangements),operators may reserve the right to pass on surcharges due to changes in the cost of fuel. In this case, we will absorb the equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements. If this still means you’’d be paying more than 8% on the holiday price, you will be entitled to cancel your holiday, with full refund only of all money you paid to us.

Refunds and compensationAs a basic principle, no refund will be made for any unused arrangements. But if we can get a refund ourselves, we’ll pass it on to you.

Variation of conditions of contractAny agreement to vary the terms of booking must be in writing by one of our directors.

JurisdictionEnglish law applies to all elements of the booking, in the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

InsuranceYou must have travel insurance, and advise us of the name of the provider before you travel. The provider we recommend is Campbell Irvine Ltd, whom we have been dealing with for over 30 years on our clients’ behalf.

Your responsibilitiesBplease refer to the FCO Travel Aware website to ensure that you are comfortable with the travel advice to the places you’re going to gov.uk/travelaware You must use your common sense, behave responsibly, and agree to accept the authority and decisions of our tour leaders, and local suppliers whilst on holiday. Make sure all your travel documents, full passport,�visas,�inoculation�certificates,�credit�cards,�currency and travellers’ cheques are in order. Yellow fever, typhoid inoculations and malaria tablets should be considered essential for all South and Central American countries within the tropics, please consult a�qualified�medical�practitioner.� Your airline reservations must be in the name that appears on the full passport you’re using. � � If�you’ve�asked�us�to�confirm�a�particular�service�–�e.g.�diets,�flight�seats,�rooming,�disabled�facilities�– please make a brief reference to it in writing at the time�of�booking.�If�we�can’t�confirm�it�we’ll�tell�you,�but�even�if�we�do�confirm,�we�can’t�guarantee�any�services�which ultimately are at an airline’s or local provider’s discretion. You are responsible for ensuring that both the�reservations�and�timings�of�flights,�particularly�homeward�bound,�are�reconfirmed.�All�clients�undertake tours and excursions of their own volition.

Our responsibilitiesWe accept responsibility for death, injury or illness caused by the negligent acts and/or omissions of our employees or agents together with our suppliers and sub-contractors whilst acting within the scope of, or in the course of their employment, as accepted

under English law. We accept responsibility for the proper performance of the travel services included in the holiday itinerary. If any part is not provided as promised, other than as a result of force majeure, we will compensate you up to a maximum of three times the total price of the package. This excludes any arrangements which do not form part of the booking with us. We and our suppliers will take reasonable skill and care to arrange your holiday, complying with local regulations, but understanding that in Latin America, standards of quality, safety and hygiene may often be lower than those which would be expected in the UK. If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control; the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you�suffer�an�injury�or�other�material�loss,�we�will�offer�you such prompt assistance as is reasonable in the circumstances.

Our liability will also be limited in accordance with the contractual terms of the companies that provide the travel services that make up your package and any relevant international convention. The terms and conditions of these conventions may limit or exclude liability for death or personal injury, delay to passengers and loss of, damage or delay to luggage. EC regulations set down rules governing compensation and assistance applying to EU carriers and�flights�from�EU,�and�covers�cancelled�flights,�long�delays, denied boarding and downgrades. Economy class cabins are often full; you may not be able to get seats together. We also recommend that, for a long flight,�you�check�in�not�less�than�two�hours�before�scheduled departure time. Our brochures and website are JLA’s responsibility, and do not commit airlines mentioned or any other airline used in the course of your travel arrangements.

If you have a problem on holiday.If you have a complaint, please bring it to the attention of JLA’s tour leader or local agents immediately to enable them to do their best to rectify the situation. Please put your complaint in writing. If the problem remains unresolved please write to us within 28 days of your return to the UK with all the relevant information. We aim to settle any complaints amicably. If we can’t resolve your complaint you can refer to ABTA’s Alternative Dispute Resolution scheme.

Rooming—singlesOn group holidays JLA has allowed for a certain number of rooms to be occupied by clients travelling alone.�These�rooms�will�be�allocated�on�a�first-come,�first-served�basis�and�the�single�supplement�shown�on�the individual tour will apply. We also reserve the right to charge the single supplement to any client travelling alone who books within one month of departure, if no willing sharer is available.

Rooming—superior ocean view?When we describe rooms, we have to use the naming convention that the hotel adopts – and sometimes the hotel’s naming can be misleading. For hotels themselves, we have devised 7 self-explanatory categories (see website).

Seasonality and maintenanceDay-to-day�maintenance�(or�during�off-season)�may mean certain activities and hotel facilities, e.g. excursions, pools, restaurants, etc are not available owing to weather conditions or lack of demand.

Baggage allowancesAirlines frequently change baggage allowances. There are weight and size restrictions as well as the number of pieces you may check-in or carry-on. Within Latin America, certain excursions and tours have baggage limits as low as 5kg per person. Arrangements can usually be made to leave the rest of your baggage in safe storage.

Consumer protection, public liability and professional indemnityAir holidays and associated flights arranged by JLA are ATOL (2828) protected, and the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. See www.atol.org.uk, or use the search facility on our own website to read ATOL Standard Terms. Arrangements where no flights are included are protected by our ABTA (V2522) bond. We also carry both public liability and professional indemnity insurance. This brochure has been compiled with all reasonable care and is accurate to the best of our knowledge; some information may be subject to reasonably foreseeable changes. All written material, including photographs, maps and layouts, in brochures and on the website is subject to copyright. Tour details and prices in this brochure supersede details published in any previous JLA brochures or printed material.

2021 Prices (Classic and Discovery Journeys)Itineraries, dates and prices for 2021 may be subject to�change�and�will�be�confirmed�by�August�2020.� For up-to-date details and information please refer to our website, www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk

If the text is too small for you to easily read please go to our website and search Booking Conditions. There, the text can be enlarged by pressing Ctrl and +, or Ctrl and using the mouse wheel.

JOURNEYLATIN AMERICA

J O U R N E Y L AT I N A M E R I C A .C O.U K

For more information and ideas, or to discuss group tour options:

Speak to our Group experts on 020 8747 8315Or start your journey at journeylatinamerica.co.uk

Journey Latin America 401 King Street • London • W6 9NJ

T 020 8747 8315 • F 020 8741 4092 • E [email protected]

Join our online communities:

JourneyLatinAmerica @JLA_UK @journeylatinamerica

The AITO quality charter AITO is the Association for independent and specialist holiday companies. Our member companies, usually owner-managed, strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for quality and personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating.

Exclusive membership AITO�sets�criteria�regarding�ownership,�finance�and�quality�which�must�be�satisfied�before�new�companies�are�admitted�to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages high operational standards and conduct.

Financial security An�AITO�member�is�required�to�arrange�financial�protection�for all holidays and other arrangements (including accommodation only) booked by the customer with the member�under�the�AITO�logo.�This�financial�protection�applies�to customers who are resident in the UK at the time of booking and to most overseas customers who have booked directly with the member. In doing so, the member must comply with the UK government regulations. Members are required to submit�details�of�their�financial�protection�arrangements�to�AITO on a regular basis.

Accurate holiday descriptions All members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately�describe�the�holidays�and�services�offered.

Professional service and continual improvements All members are committed to high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually seek to review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always welcome suggestions for improving standards.

Monitoring standards AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a post-holiday questionnaire from their tour operator, the results of which are scrutinised by the Association.

In addition, customers can leave detailed feedback from the AITO website, or via a direct link supplied by their AITO tour operator, about their holiday.

Sustainable tourism Members acknowledge the importance of AITO’s Sustainable Tourism ethos, which recognises the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating.

Customer relations All members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their customers may raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, either party can call on an arbitration service to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion.

Journey Latin America is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. To contact the Association visit www.aito.co.uk or call 020 8744 9280.

THE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TOUR OPERATORS THE QUALITY ALTERNATIVE.

Consumer protection – Important The�air�holidays�and�flights�in�this�brochure�are�ATOL�Protected�by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2828.

ATOLAll�the�flights�and�flight-inclusive�holidays�in�this�brochure�are�financially�protected�by�the�ATOL�scheme.�When�you�pay�you�will�be�supplied�with�an�ATOL�Certificate.�Please�ask�for�it�and�check�to�ensure�that�everything�you�booked�(flights,�hotels�and other services) are listed on it. Please see our website for our booking conditions for further information or for more�information�about�financial�protection�and�the�ATOL�Certificate�go�to:�www.atol.org.uk/ATOLcertificate.�

ABTAJourney Latin America Ltd is a Member of ABTA with membership number V2522. ABTA and ABTA Members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct.

For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ. Tel: 020 3117 0500 or www.abta.com

For more information about our Privacy Policy please visit www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk/information/privacy-policy

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Registered in the UK 1474705

AUGUST 2019

00005072

GROUP JOURNEYS - Journey Latin America

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