Overview:

Experience 3 of the most beautiful spots on earth rolled into one trip. Trail finders will be right at home on this journey packed with culture, heritage, water & wildlife.

Galapagos & Andes (From January 2017) (With Inca Trail Trek, start Quito, end Lima)

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Summarized Tour Details

Tour Duration:	26 Days
Depart From:	Puerto Maldonado
Arrive in:	Quito
Tour Style:	Discovery Plus
Tour Type:	Escorted
Tour Supplier:	Contiki Holidays
Meal Description:	38 meals: 25 breakfasts, 3 lunches (or 4 for Machu Picchu trekking option) & 10 dinners

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Prices and Dates (Save up to 10% OFF these Published Rates)

Departure Date	Return Date	Price(CAD)

2017-01-30	2017-02-24	8155.00
2017-01-30	2017-02-24	6730.00
2017-01-30	2017-02-24	6730.00
2017-02-26	2017-03-23	8155.00
2017-02-26	2017-03-23	6730.00
2017-02-26	2017-03-23	6730.00
2017-03-26	2017-04-20	8155.00
2017-03-26	2017-04-20	6730.00
2017-03-26	2017-04-20	6730.00
2017-04-23	2017-05-18	8155.00
2017-04-23	2017-05-18	6730.00
2017-04-23	2017-05-18	6730.00
2017-05-21	2017-06-15	8155.00
2017-05-21	2017-06-15	6730.00
2017-05-21	2017-06-15	6730.00
2017-06-18	2017-07-13	8155.00
2017-06-18	2017-07-13	6730.00
2017-06-18	2017-07-13	6730.00
2017-07-16	2017-08-10	8155.00
2017-07-16	2017-08-10	6730.00
2017-07-16	2017-08-10	6730.00
2017-08-13	2017-09-07	8155.00
2017-08-13	2017-09-07	6730.00
2017-08-13	2017-09-07	6730.00
2017-09-10	2017-10-05	8155.00
2017-09-10	2017-10-05	6730.00
2017-09-10	2017-10-05	6730.00
2017-10-08	2017-11-02	8155.00
2017-10-08	2017-11-02	6730.00
2017-10-08	2017-11-02	6730.00
2017-11-05	2017-11-30	8155.00
2017-11-05	2017-11-30	6730.00
2017-11-05	2017-11-30	6730.00
2017-12-03	2017-12-28	8155.00
2017-12-03	2017-12-28	6730.00
2017-12-03	2017-12-28	6730.00
2018-01-03	2018-01-28	8155.00
2018-01-03	2018-01-28	6730.00
2018-01-03	2018-01-28	6730.00

Overview
Itinerary
Other Inclusions
Trip Highlights
Trip Summary

Overview:

Experience 3 of the most beautiful spots on earth rolled into one trip. Trail finders will be right at home on this journey packed with culture, heritage, water & wildlife.

Countries Visited

Ecuador
Ecuador

Overview
Itinerary
Other Inclusions
Trip Highlights
Trip Summary

Day : 1

Quito

Number of Days : 1

Welcome to Ecuador’s capital, Quito! Meet up with your Contiki Team & group before exploring – we’ll start the trip out right with a tour around the city so you can get your bearings. Our expert guide will teach you all about this city & the history of the Inca & Spanish invasion which happened in the 15th Century and you’ll get the opportunity to check out the colonial-era buildings that still stand in Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage city is Ecuador’s second largest, with a population over 2 million. Although this city has a rich historical past dating back to the Incas, today it’s a popular & modern city that sprawls across this Andean landscape – and you’ll experience some of the best views 200m above the town at the Panciello lookout, which features La Virgen del Panecillo, a majestic sculpture that stands overlooking the city. Later, visit the Equatorial line & wander between the two hemispheres as you visit the Inti Nan Museum. We’ll have dinner with the group so you can get you know your travel buddies. The city has a great nightlife scene & some great local treats to try. Ecuadorian fresh fruit juice and steaming cafe con leche are amongst some of the must-try delights on offer here. If you feel like doing as the locals do, you could sip on a canelazo, made from hot water, sugarcane alcohol, lemon, sugar, and cinnamon – it’s a typical drink of the Andean region.

Day : 2

Quito to Tena

Number of Days : 1

It’s out of the city & into the lush jungle with spectacular views en route. A perfect way to spend the day.

Day : 3

Tena

Number of Days : 1

This morning is all about ME Time. This morning, have a lie in or opt to visit an indigenous community. Get your adrenalin pumping this afternoon on a class 3-4 rapids.

Day : 4

Tena to Baños

Number of Days : 1

We head to Baños today, the adventure capital of Ecuador, nestled under the still active Tungurahua volcano. Tonight get local as you learn to salsa at our included lesson.

Day : 5

Baños

Number of Days : 1

With a free day, explore your way & Baños goes off! Situated in a valley of waterfalls & hot springs, Baños is a hub for travellers who love great weather, small town vibes & the great outdoors. Go horseback riding, canyoneering or abseiling.

Day : 6

Baños to Guayaquil

Number of Days : 1

Today we’re off to discover Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city & its economic hub. This cosmopolitan city is one of Ecuador’s new hotspots, a walk down to the Malecón (Cities riverfront) is a must. For a bit of a historic enlightenment why not venture to Las Peñas, one of the most emblematic neighborhoods of Guayaquil, its narrow streets and interesting past makes it a great visit.

Day : 7

Guayaquil to Isabela Island

Number of Days : 1

After our flight, we'll make our way to the cute little town of Puerto Ayora, but not before your first taste of the incredible natural habitat here - en route we'll stop to check out the famed giant tortoises in their natural surroundings, and some of the incredible old lava tunnels (some over 1km long) winding their way under the island of Santa Cruz. We’ll stop for lunch before getting out on the water for our first boat ride to Isabela - this nature haven is home to land and sea life that will astound and amaze. Once we arrive on the island we'll head to town for our first night in the Galapagos National Park. As you chill and get to know your travel buddies keep an eye out for the friendly reintroduced wild tortoises roaming around. Tonight, relax over dinner & get ready for two nights in this beautiful spot.

Day : 8

Isabela Island

Number of Days : 1

This morning we’ll grab some kayaks & get out on the water around Las Tintoreras where we’ll set out in search for the Galapagos Penguin – the only penguin found north of the Equator! On return, spot colourful fish as you snorkel the underground lava tubes. This area is often frequented by green sea turtles that like to rest on the calm, sandy bottom, so make sure you are on the lookout for these incredible creatures as you snorkel through the clear blue water. Then this afternoon we’ll walk to the Wall of Tears. From 1945 to 1959 this place held prisoners who were forced to build this wall stone by stone. At 25m tall, it took thousands of lives during its construction. Legend has it that cries of those lost can be heard at the site.

Day : 9

Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island

Number of Days : 1

This morning we’ll head to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center to learn about the island’s natural history on a guided tour, before we take off Santa Cruz Island. Before heading to Santa Cruz Island, you can choose to chill or get active, it's up to you! If you feel like getting out and about, this afternoon’s optional activity is a guided trip to the gorgeous Tortuga Bay. After a half an hour stroll along a path you'll arrive at a stretch of white sandy beach where marine iguanas sunbathe. You also have an opportunity to kayak in the bay in search of sharks, rays, turtles, and great blue herons. This pristine beach is absolute heaven! Not ready to wield a paddle? No worries – this is the perfect opportunity to sun bathe, body surf, surf, or look for marine iguanas, lava gulls and the famous blue- footed boobies. If you aren’t feeling up for the walk, take to the streets and go local or head to town to shop for souvenirs or relax.

Day : 10

Santa Cruz Island to San Cristobal Island

Number of Days : 1

This morning we’ll pay a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, once home to one of the island’s most famous residents, the world-famous Lonesome George – who was 100 years old when he died. Here you’ll observe many species of tortoises and land iguanas brought back from the brink of extinction and learn about this centre and research facility. Later we're back on the boat as we head to our next island, San Cristobal. - keep an eye out for bathing sea lions that the island is known for! This island is made up of four volcanoes – all extinct – and later, we’ll head up into the highlands for a scenic downhill bike ride. Starting at a panoramic viewpoint called La Soledad, we’ll bike through the tiny town of El Progreso and five different and varied vegetation zones until we reach a beach La Loberia beach. From there you can check out some of the other locals - we’ll be able to watch cute sea lions sun bathing, playing and vying for our attention. Tonight, it’s all about relaxing over drinks at one of our favourite local spots while watching the sunset.

Day : 11

San Cristobal Island

Number of Days : 1

Today we take to the water to get our last glimpse of the famous and equally incredible underwater world of Galapagos. First we’ll cruise along the coast in our boat where our Local Guide will point out the species of shore birds like the Great Frigatebird and other native species. We begin our stay in search of wildlife and then we are off to Kicker Rock (or Leon Dormido as it’s known by the locals) the remains of a tuff cone - Kicker Rock rising a massive over 143m out of the ocean (that's about 50 floors in building terms). We’ll check out the underwater landscape as we head along the edge and through a channel of this drastic compact ash formation. Your Local Guide will keep you in the know as we look out for sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, chocolate chip starfish, and, with any luck, a Galapagos Shark or two. Don’t worry, they won’t be as interested in you as you are in them, so it's perfectly safe. Later we’ll head to Puerto Grande, a beautiful beach which is our final stop for the day. After lunch on board, spend your time swimming in the turquoise water or snapping photos of Kicker Rock in the distance. We’ll head back to town late afternoon where we'll be treated to one of the best BBQ’s in the Galapagos at one of the local’s favorite spots to celebrate a great Galapagos trip.

Day : 12

San Cristobal Island to Lima

Number of Days : 1

Today we fly to Lima & we get acquainted with the city before we meet up with more of our group.

Day : 13

Lima

Number of Days : 1

Made up of 43 different districts, almost all with their own flare and vibe, Lima is a bustling metropolis. The opulence of the Spanish colonial era is visible everywhere in the city, from the detailed wood-work of the historic centre’s balconies, doors and architecture to the the lavishly decorated churches. Ideas of places to explore include a visit to the Basillica Cathedral for a glimpse of the city’s former glory or, for something different you could head to the Iglesia de San Francisco (Church of San Francisco) and take a look at its famous catacombs. As the city's first cemetery, these underground tunnels (catacombs) contain the bones of over 70,000 people, many of which are set in cool geometric patterns. If you’re into art, then make tracks to the Barranco district – its bohemian energy will make you feel right at home. Wander past the beautiful colonial mansions of the neighborhood, many of them recently restored. Take a walk on the beachside boardwalk, cross the Lima’s Bridge of Sighs or just sit in one of the cafés that overlooks the ocean and spend the afternoon relaxing with a Pisco Sour, Peru’s national drink. If you want to check out the city’s more modern aspects, the Miraflores district is the place for you. If shopping, gourmet restaurants, great cafes and bars is what you’re after (or spending the day looking out over the ocean while watching the many surfers ripping it up), this is the perfect spot. Looking to check out Lima by night? There are loads of places to head to. From chilled-out lounges, to bars with live music, or dance clubs that run late into the night, just let your Trip Manager know what you feel like and they’ll give you some tips on where to head.

Day : 14

Lima to Arequipa

Number of Days : 1

This morning it’s an early start as we fly to Peru’s second largest city, the “White City” of Arequipa, or La Ciudad Blanca. Lying in the shadow of three volcanoes, including the perfectly-symmetrical El Misti, the city was built using white volcanic rock called Sillar which gives the city its name. Upon arrival, get your bearings on an orientation tour of the city. After we arrive at the hotel, there’s time to freshen up before free time for lunch. With many great restaurants and cafés, there are loads of places to indulge in some great local food. Arequipa is one of Peru’s main dairy regions and chocolate is a must-have whilst you’re here. The La Iberica factory and shop produces and sells some of the country’s finest chocolate, so keep your eyes peeled. This afternoon, we’ll delve into the city’s history for an-in depth look into its past with a walking tour. A city within the city – the nuns, often wealthy young Peruvians, once lived in silence and were not allowed to leave the premises. Today, it is still a working monastery, with most of the premises open to the public. From here we walk through our first UNESCO World Heritage site on the trip and one of the country’s most beautiful plazas – the Plaza de Armas. The hub of urban city life here, it’s filled with palm trees and flanked by a 17th century Cathedral. Tonight you’ll really get to know your tour buddies over dinner at one of the city’s great restaurants. You’ll have the choice of some of Peru’s famous cuisine like Recoto Relleno (stuffed hot peppers) or Chupe de Camerones (crayfish chowder). Later, take it up a notch – you can visit the bars on the Plaza de Armas and take in the beauty of the illuminated square and cathedral while savoring a Pisco Sour.

Day : 15

Arequipa to Colca Canyon

Number of Days : 1

This morning, we travel to one of the world’s deepest canyons – Colca Canyon. We’ll drive through through Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve where the elusive Vicuña, the smallest of the South American camelid family roams wild. We’ll stop for a break at “the crossroads” where the routes to Colca Canyon and Puno separate. We’ll enjoy a steaming cup of coca tea at a local shop and awesome views of the windswept landscapes of the sandstone cliffs found here. We’ll continue on to the highest point of our entire journey which at 4910 metres/16,108ft above sea level is the same height as Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak. Stop for some pics at the top, before our descent into Chivay, one of the largest towns in the Colca Valley and capital of the Caylloma province in the Arequipa region. Later on, spend your evening hanging with the group. Cards and board games or drinks and conversation by the hotel’s enormous fireplace are a must.

Day : 16

Colca Canyon to Puno

Number of Days : 1

We’ll set out early this morning and head to Cruz del Condor, a platform 3800m above sea level for a chance to spot the King of the Andes, the Andean Condor. With a wingspan of up to 3 metres/10 feet, this regal bird uses the warm air currents to float effortlessly through the canyon searching for food. It’s a pretty incredible sight, so keep your camera ready in case they buzz close overhead. We’ll return to Chivay for lunch via the small, picturesque villages that dot the road along the way. We’ll also stop for a visit the beautiful colonial church of Yanque which helps to illustrate the history of the area. In the afternoon, we travel through Peru’s altiplano (high plain) to Puno on the edge of Lake Titicaca. Located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, Puno is the gateway to the surrounding islands and unique cultures. On arrival, we’ll check-in to our hotel where you can freshen up or chill out before heading out to find a local spot for dinner. Enjoy a night of drinking and dancing at one of the bars on the main pedestrian street but be careful, you might have to catch your breath as dancing at over 3657metres/12 000 ft above sea level is a challenge!

Day : 17

Puno

Number of Days : 1

This morning, it’s time to check out the area from a different angle! First up, we’ll make our way to the town’s port by a classic means of transport, the triciclo or three-wheeled bike taxi. We’ll then jump on board our boat for a two and a half hour trip across Lake Titicaca to Taquile Island. The boat trip is the perfect way to chill as you learn about the history, culture and ecology of the lake and its communities while taking in the views of the distant Cordillera Blanca (the White Mountain range) located on the Bolivian side of the lake. Although there are many travellers that come to this area every year, Taquile still remains one of the most culturally intact communities in Peru. From the quality of their famous weaving and the use of their woollen hats, to the terracing and traditional means of government, the people of Taquile Island continue to live in a manner not far off from that of their ancestors, the Incas. On arrival at the island, there’s the opportunity to visit some weaving groups and to savor a tasty local meal before jumping back on the boat for our cruise to our next stop – the famous floating Uros Islands. Uros Islands are fascinating to visit and you’ll love experiencing the entrepreneurial spirit of the locals here. You’ll get a glimpse at the local lifestyle as you visit small fish farms, a natural history museum, a local’s home and check out the variety of wares for sale by the women of the community, including local textiles and mini totora reed boats. You can opt to take a ride on one of the larger reed boats which were formally the only means of transportation that the islanders had.

Day : 18

Puno to Cusco

Number of Days : 1

Our first stop outside of Puno is the village of Pukara, named after a pre-Inca civilization. We‘ll visit a small museum where you’ll see the Pukara archeological site (500bc-200ad). The village is locally renowned for artistic ceramic bulls which are symbols of protection and prosperity and if you take a look above, you’ll see them on the roofs of houses throughout the highlands. Take one home for yourself when we visit a local ceramics shop. Next up is La Raya, the highest point of our journey, marking the border between the regions of Puno and Cusco. Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Andes we’ll stop to stretch our legs and take in the stunning beauty of the Peruvian altiplano (the widest point of the Andes). We will continue on to town of Sicuani for a lunch stop before reaching Raqchi. Raqchi was an important ceremonial site for the Inca’s and is famous for being the home to the only remaining two-storey Inca walls. It also possesses one of the largest single structures of the ancient Incan empire, the Temple of Wiracocha. You will have the opportunity for an up-close visit to the site before completing the final stretch of today’s journey to the hub of ancient Incan culture, Cusco. Tonight the evening is free to check out the sights, smells and sounds of Cusco. There are loads of places in town to try out some local cuisine, or maybe try some delicious street food and head out for a taste of how to party, Cusco-style.

Day : 19

Cusco

Number of Days : 1

Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire, is now the modern-day starting point for visits to Peru’s most famous site, Machu Picchu. With huge numbers of travellers flocking to the site every year, it’s led to the development of loads of awesome attractions, so there’s plenty of cool ways to spend your time. First up we’ll help you get your bearings on a walking tour of the city including a visit to the neighborhood of San Blas, and a stop on Calle Hatunrumiyoc, not far from Plaza de Armas. It is a narrow pedestrian street, famous for its Inca walls where huge stones are precisely carved to fit together without mud or concrete. Hatunrumiyoc is a great place to have a closer look at the engineering skills of the Incas. The 12 sided stone, and the wall it is found on, is a perfect example of the stonework that was reserved for the 'elite' of Incan society who lived in houses of perfect stonework, cut and shaped with not a gap to be seen. The walls were so well built that the Spanish used them for the foundations of their buildings after the conquest. From here we’ll head to the Koricancha or Santa Domingo Church. Originally an Inca temple devoted to the worship of the sun god, in its glory days it was covered in gold leaf with a field filled with gold statues surrounding it. The site was later converted into a Dominican church during the Spanish conquest. We’ll take a guided tour so you can really get into the history as we learn about the differences in architecture and cultural beliefs. Our next stop is Cusco Cathedral. Built over a period of more than 100 years, the cathedral is a true testament to the place of the church in both the heart of the Spanish conquistadors and their desire to convert the religious beliefs of the locals to coincide with their own. It is filled with beautiful examples of the ‘Cusco School’ style of paintings, gold and religious icons. Take a break for lunch before visiting the famous San Pedro market. As you cruise from aisle to aisle you will be amazed by the variety of foods on offer here. From delicious jungle fruits, whole animals to ‘cacao buds’ (one of the new ‘it’ super foods) there is little that you can’t find. A must-do is trying a tasty and refreshing freshly squeezed juice. If getting an adrenalin fix or getting back to nature is what you’re looking for, then Cusco is perfect for getting amongst it. With a free afternoon, there are tons of options - from biking, rafting and horseback riding and best of all, your Trip Manager can arrange these for you. Or, for those wanting to explore town, simply take a stroll through the city’s cobble-stone streets for a load of examples of Inca constructions and the intricately-carved, wooden colonial doors and balconies. For the shopaholics in the group, this is the perfect spot to pick up some gifts for friends and family (or for yourself), there are loads of artists selling items like woolen and alpaca goods, gorgeous jewellery to artwork. These can be purchased from low-priced market stalls to expensive boutiques that line the streets near the main square, so there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets. For the foodies on the trip, you are in for a treat in Cusco. Peru’s cuisine is exquisite and can be tried in lots of places dotted throughout the town. If you’re feeling like a taste of home, there’s also a number of cosmopolitan restaurants here too, it’s perfect for finding something for everyone. Tonight we’ll check out the nightlife that is sure to keep you hopping into the wee hours of the night.

Day : 20

Cusco to Sacred Valley

Number of Days : 1

Say farewell to Cusco this morning as we make our way to the Sacred Valley of the ancient Incas. The Sacred Valley was the heart of the Inca’s agricultural setting and an important ceremonial region, with the sacred sites of Cuzco at one end and Machu Picchu at the other and countless ceremonial sites in between. Our first stop is to one of these sites, Pisac. On our guided tour we will see two of the most important aspects of the Inca culture – terracing – a farming technique created by the Inca’s and their religion. We’ll take a walk before descending in the village below for a quick visit to the market. This will be great practice for those who have chosen the one-day hike to Machu Picchu tomorrow. Don’t miss the town’s huge wood-oven bakery! After a stop for lunch in Urubamba we’ll make our way to one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns of South America – Ollantaytambo. On our way, we can see the ‘salineras’ or salt mines of the area from a distance. For hundreds of years these pools, constructed by the Inca’s, have provided salt to the surrounding communities. We’ll also make a quick stop to try the local brew “Chicha de Jora” (traditional beverage made from fermented maize) and play a traditional Peruvia game of “Sapo” (Frog) if you’re up for it. We soon arrive to the town and archaeological site of the same name, Ollantaytambo, the last fully-functioning Inca town. We’ll wander around the site or visit the still inhabited Inca buildings before checking into the hotel.

Day : 21

Train to Aguas Calientes or trek the Inca Trail

Number of Days : 1

For those that have chosen the Inca Trail trek, well wake up this morning and take the train to KM104 to start your trek. Under the guidance of our professional Inca Trail Guide you’ll climb a gentle slope and experience the wildlife and cloudforest found here. You’ll pass a beautiful waterfall on your trek to Winayhuayna where we’ll stop for lunch at a trekker’s lodge. Explore the area if you’re up for it, to get you warmed up for Machu Picchu. After lunch begin the journey to our highlight, Machu Picchu. We’ll walk along the original Inca stonework path, past an altar to the Sun Gate where you’ll catch your first look at this awesome site. Another 45 minutes will take us to the Guardian’s House, where there’s the opportunity to take photos of the site at its best. After a wander around the site and some stunning photos to show off back home, we’ll take a bus back into town to meet up with the rest of the group where you can tell your stories from your day of hiking. If you haven’t chosen our Inca Trail Trek today, then the morning is free to explore Sacred Valley. If you’re up for it, rafting and horse-riding await you today. Or if relaxing is more your thing, visit the town’s spectacular square and have a wander through the local markets. This afternoon, we’ll catch a train through the lush and verdant mountains to Aguas Calientes the town at the base of the ruins. Tonight, soak up the atmosphere, wander through the market stalls, or visit the hot springs which gave the town its former name of Aguas Calientes. Later, we’ll meet up with those who chose to do the one-day hike into Machu Picchu and listen to the stories of their day! The chilled atmosphere and amazing setting makes for a great place to enjoy a couple of drinks on the patio with the group.

Day : 22

Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) to Cusco

Number of Days : 1

It’s an early start this morning to be among the first to enter Machu Picchu. Take advantage of the peaceful early morning quiet to grab some awesome pics from every angle as the sun rises above the mountain tops. You’ll learn all about the site as we take a tour through the most important parts of the site such as the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths and the altar. Widely believed to be the country retreat for wealthy Incas, this site is as fascinating as it is stunning. After the tour, there’s time to explore more of the site in your own time. For those finishing early and looking for a little exercise you can walk down to the simple but interesting Machu Picchu museum at the base of the mountain. Or, for those really feeling up for it, you could continue on to the waterfall 40 minutes outside of town or simply return to "main street" and have a drink before we return to Cusco via train then coach. Being full of knowledge about Cusco past and present, now might be time to try one of the delicacies of the Peruvian highlands, ‘cuy’ or crispy fried guinea pig. It’s a must-try in Peru. If you are not feeling quite so adventurous, a traditional dish of trout or some of Peru’s fusion cuisine that mixes traditional ingredients such as quinoa with non-traditional flavors might be a better option. Tonight is a great night to become a bona fide member of our "Illary Club" - by heading to one of the clubs and dancing until the sun rises.

Day : 23

Cusco

Number of Days : 1

Today it’s your chance to totally chill. Laze around town enjoying a cappuccino while overlooking the Plaza de Armas, or you can pick it up a notch and try one of the adrenaline filled options here. Spend a half-day horseback riding through the X-zone just north of the city, white water raft down the sacred Urubamba River or do some mountain biking. Tonight, ask your Trip Manager for some tips on where to head for a meal and have a good time on your last night out in Cusco. Try a salsa lesson or go to a peña to listen to live Peruvian music and to dance the night away.

Day : 24

Cusco to Jungle Lodge

Number of Days : 1

We’ll catch a flight over the Andes to the city of Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. We’ll have lunch on the river as we travel upstream by a traditional Peruvian boat to our Contiki Special Stay Rainforest Lodge, where we’ll try to spot toucans, macaws and capybaras along the way. Our lodge is a special experience in itself! Located in then luscious rainforest and made from wood and clay, its open walls leave you sleeping virtually amongst the rainforest! After you settle in, we’ll get a different take on the jungle as we take a hike to the canopy tower. After climbing the 100ft of stairs you will be provided with a birds-eye view of the rainforest! Home to monkeys, birds, bromeliads and other jungle life, this is the ultimate way to see the jungle. After dinner you can experience something really different, heading out to look for caiman, a member of the alligator family native to the Amazon. Scan the shores with flashlights and see if you can catch the red gleam of the light as it reflects off of the caiman’s eyes.

Day : 25

Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado

Number of Days : 1

We’ll wake early for best view of some the wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled as we travel further downstream to Tres Chimadas, an oxbow lake. We’ll board a simple catamaran with a jungle guide to learn about the flora and fauna of the area while looking out for the prehistoric hoatzin bird, the giant river otter, or try your luck fishing for piranha. After our cruise, we’ll head to the native community of Infierno, where we will visit a local fish farm to see some of the species that are native to the Peruvian Amazon. After lunch, time is yours to do what you wish. For those keen on footy (soccer), spend the afternoon playing soccer, volleyball or take a dip. There are other options for your free time too. You can take an optional kayaking trip, try a 30 metre Canopy Climb with a rope, harness and jumar (a mechanical device used for ascending on a rope. After a long day exploring, we head to Puerto Maldonado our home for the night.

Day : 26

Puerto Maldonado to Lima

Number of Days : 1

Our local guide will accompany us to the airport for our flight back into Lima. Don’t forget to swap addresses with your mates and Trip Manager, as our South American adventure ends late this afternoon on arrival in Lima.

Overview
Itinerary
Other Inclusions
Trip Highlights
Trip Summary

Quito

Locally guided city tour and view the Palace of Congress, Presidential Palace, Independence Square & Churches of San Francisco, La Compania & La Catedral

Visit Panecillo lookout

Visit the Equator & Inti-Ñan Musuem

Guayaquil to Isabela Island

Boat ride to Isabela Island

See Galapagos' famous giant tortoises

Visit the lava tunnels

Isabela Island

Visit the Wall of Tears

Snorkelling experience

Wildlife kayaking adventure

Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island

Guided tour of the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre

Visit Tortuga Bay

Santa Cruz Island to San Cristobal Island

See the island's famous sea lions

Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station

San Cristobal Island

Boat cruise & off shore bird spotting experience

Explore Kicker Rock

Indulge in our Galapagos BBQ feast

Visit Puerto Grande Beach

Lima

Lima city tour - see the historical centre, Barranco & Miraflores

Arequipa to Colca Canyon

See wild Vicuña

See El Misti, Chachani & Pichu Pichu volcanoes

Visit the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve

Colca Canyon to Puno

See the massive Colca Canyon

Visit Cruz del Condor

Visit Yanque

Puno

Island boat trip on Lake Titicaca

Ride on a triciclo!

Visit Taquile & Uros island communities

Puno to Cusco

Visit Pukara, La Raya & Sicuani

Entry to the Temple of Wiracocha

Cusco

City walking tour

Visit San Blas, La Catedral & Koricancha

Cusco to Sacred Valley

Entry into the Sacred Valley & a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Pisac & Ollantaytambo

Try some local Chicha de Jora

Train to Aguas Calientes or trek the Inca Trail

Train ride to the 104km point

Tour Machu Picchu with our local guide

Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) to Cusco

Tour the Temple of Three Windows, the ceremonial baths & altar

Return train ride from Machu Picchu

Cusco to Jungle Lodge

City tour

Canopy hike for amazing jungle views

Special stay in our Amazon Rainforest Jungle Ecolodge

Visit the Infierno community

Jungle Lodge to Puerto Maldonado

Locally guided jungle catamaran cruise

LIC.#:50017164

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