Day 1. Depart UK
Fly to Buenos Aires.
Day 2. Arrive Buenos Aires (Argentina)
On arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel before a Welcome Reception this evening.
Day 3. Buenos Aires
A tour of Buenos Aires this morning begins with a visit to the Avenida de Mayo, an avenue that connects with the city’s main downtown square, the Plaza De Mayo. See the pink Casa Rosada (Government House), the city’s cathedral and the Cabildo, the first city hall. Next, visit Café Tortoni, a famous literati coffeehouse established in 1858. As you enjoy coffee and croissants, you’re invited to participate in a fun and informative introductory Spanish class, which will provide a basic understanding of words and phrases you’ll come across during your holiday. After, take a ride on the subway, the first of its kind in Latin America, then visit the city’s oldest barrio (district), San Telmo. Here, enjoy ample time to stroll around the charming square, which is lined with antique shops. Later, explore the Italian-influenced barrio of La Boca, with its colourful houses and picturesque pedestrian street, the Caminito. As you then drive along one of the widest avenues in the world, Avenida 9 de Julio, you’ll see the iconic Teatro Colón (Columbia Theatre). Continue on to see the parks, gardens and tree-lined streets of Palermo and visit La Recoleta Cemetery. Afterwards, enjoy free time, then head to the Philippe Starck-designed cabaret, Rojo Tango, for dinner, drinks and the most exclusive tango show in the city. You’ll be dazzled as singers, a small orchestra and sublimely skilled dancers create an ambiance of romance and drama.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Dinner
Day 4. Buenos Aires, Freedom of Choice Touring, Freedom of Choice Dining
Today, perhaps head to the island town of Tigre and cruise on a vintage mahogany boat over the waterways of the mesmerising Paraná Delta. Or visit an estancia (ranch), for a full-day Fiesta Gaucha featuring horseback riding, folk music, dance and lunch. Alternatively you may prefer to tour the colourful neighbourhood of La Boca before visiting the La Boca Museum and Stadium, or you may like to visit the Evita Museum, dedicated to the legendary Eva Perón. Tonight, choose where you’d like to dine with our Freedom of Choice Dining options. In Buenos Aires, enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at Sorrento Recoval; traditional French cuisine and the best Argentinean seasonal produce at Le Sud; a traditional Argentinian BBQ at El Mirasol de la Recova, or fine Italian dining at Piegari Restaurant.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Dinner
Day 5. Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls (Argentina and Brazil)
Board your flight to Iguassu Falls, a system of 275 falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil that has the second highest annual flow of any waterfalls in the world. Land on the Argentinian side of the falls and ride the Rainforest Ecological Train through forest to a series of walkways and viewing points, including one located directly over 82 metre-high Devil’s Throat. Afterwards, travel into Brazil and on to your hotel, located just a stroll from the falls. This evening dine at the Ipê Grill within your hotel.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Dinner
Day 6. Iguassu Falls
This morning after breakfast enjoy time in Brazil’s World Heritage-listed Iguassu National Park. View the majestic falls from close to the base of the Devil’s Throat, then visit the Parque das Aves Bird Park, set just outside the national park. Walk through the giant aviaries and get up close to a range of native South American birds including flamingos, parrots and macaws as well as a number of species of the iconic toucan. Later, you have the afternoon at your leisure to make use of the facilities at your incredible hotel within the National Park.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
Day 7. Iguassu Falls, Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)
After flying to Rio de Janeiro today, check in to your hotel then, during time at leisure, perhaps visit the Ipanema workshop of the internationally acclaimed jeweller, H. Stern. At sunset, absorb one of the world’s truly exquisite views as you ride a cable car from Praia Vermelha (Red Beach) via Morro da Urca (Urca Hill) to the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, situated at the mouth of Guanabara Bay. After time at the peak, head for Porcão Rio’s to sample Brazil’s national cocktail, the caipirinha, before a delicious and interactive Brazilian BBQ.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Dinner
Day 8. Rio de Janeiro, Freedom of Choice Touring
This morning after breakfast, enjoy your chosen Freedom of Choice Touring activity. You may wish to embark on a jeep tour through two friendly local favelas - Rio de Janeiro’s local shanty towns. Alternatively, take a full-day excursion to Petrópolis, the Imperial City of Brazil, or experience the beauty of the Botanical Gardens and Tijuca National Park on a jeep tour. Another option is a ferry ride across the bay to the island of Niterói for a visit to the Niterói Contemporary Art Museum. After your chosen Freedom of Choice Touring activity, the evening is yours to spend at leisure. This provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the local nightlife and try one of the local restaurants.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
Day 9. Rio de Janeiro, Freedom of Choice Dining
Today travel to Corcovado, a mountain that’s famous for its iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visit the statue and travel to the platform at its peak for stunning views over downtown Rio, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach and much more. Tonight, choose from our enticing range of Freedom of Choice Dining options. Perhaps choose to dine at Plataforma Restaurant then enjoy a show; or savour an Italian meal at Don Camillo. Alternatively, take in views over Copacabana Beach from the renowned Restaurante Atlantis; or head to a samba bar for dinner and live samba music.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Dinner
Day 10. Rio de Janeiro, Santiago (Chile)
Say farewell to Brazil after breakfast this morning as you board an included flight to Santiago. The Chilean capital is situated in the Santiago basin, spectacularly flanked on the east by the Andes mountains. On arrival in Santiago, check in to your five-star hotel, before enjoying an evening at leisure to do as little or as much as you please. Perhaps take the chance to step out and discover the sights of this pulsating city ahead of your next days of touring.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
Day 11. Santiago, Freedom of Choice Dining
On a tour of Santiago today, explore the city’s central square, the Plaza de Armas, and enjoy superb views over the city from San Cristóbal Hill. Then travel to the San Antonio Valley, where you’ll tour the boutique vineyards of Matetic then taste some Chilean wine before a delicious lunch. Back in Santiago this evening, Freedom of Choice Dining offers you the chance to taste fresh seafood at Coco Loco; indulge in contemporary cuisine at the city’s oldest restaurant, Confiteria Torres; head to Due Torri for Italian cuisine; or enjoy fine dining at Miguel Torres Wine Restaurant.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Lunch
- • Dinner
Day 12. Santiago, Lima (Peru)
After breakfast this morning, board a flight from Santiago to the starting point for your Peruvian discovery and the country’s capital, Lima. On arrival, a city tour includes a visit to the World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Lima where you’ll see the catacombs of the monastery of San Francisco that link the religious sites of Lima, the Archbishop Palace, the Basilica Cathedral of Lima and much more. After checking in to your hotel, dine at Brujas del Cachiche - a local restaurant set in an old mansion overlooking a lovely park. This evening, learn about the adventure that awaits over the coming days.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Dinner
Day 13. Lima, Cusco, Chincheros, Sacred Valley
Departing Lima this morning, you’ll fly to the World Heritage-listed city of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. On arrival, travel through the city by coach on the way to the lovely city of Chincheros, set high in the Andean highlands. During a traditional weaving demonstration, learn how the famously colourful materials of South America are created. To the locals of the Andean highlands in Peru, weaving is just as important for preserving ancient traditions as it is for earning a living. Later, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, you’ll visit the home of a local family to sample a typical Andean meal. This is a unique opportunity to interact on a cultural level with the people of Peru.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Lunch
Day 14. Sacred Valley
A full day tour in and around the Sacred Valley begins with a visit to the markets of Pisac, a hilltop handicraft village that lies near Incan ruins. You’ll then make a visit to the community of nearby Taray to visit a special school project we have organised. Here you can appreciate the donation that APT contributed on your behalf to the local community and spend some time with the teachers and pupils. Afterwards, head for Wayra, a boutique restaurant and equestrian centre, set in one of the most picturesque corners of the Andes. Enjoy a traditional BBQ lunch and watch a Peruvian Paso horse demonstration and a performance of the ‘la marinera’ - known as Peru’s national dance. Later, we travel to the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. During the times of the Incas, Ollantaytambo was a royal estate belonging to Emperor Pachacuti who conquered the region. Here, you’ll spend some time further exploring the Sacred Valley before returning to your hotel for dinner.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Lunch
Day 15. Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu
Board PeruRail’s Vistadome train and admire the mountainous Andean landscape outside your large panoramic windows as you travel to Machu Picchu. On arrival at the ruins, enjoy a hearty lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, then set off on a locally guided tour of the iconic Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu was built around 1450, at the height of the Inca Empire, and abandoned just over 100 years later. The site remained undiscovered in modern times until the American historian, Hiram Bingham, brought it to international attention in 1911. Today, it’s a World Heritage-listed site and the most familiar icon of the Inca World. After your time here, return to town and check in to your hotel.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Lunch
- • Dinner
Day 16. Machu Picchu, Cusco
As you wake this morning, you’ll realise how incredibly close you are to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. You will have the opportunity to beat the morning rush, and return to Machu Picchu to experience the site in true serenity at your own pace. This afternoon, board Orient-Express’ exclusive Hiram Bingham train for the luxurious rail journey from Machu Picchu to Cusco. On board, you’ll savour a Pisco Sour, enjoy live Peruvian music and indulge in a sumptuous four-course Andean-inspired dinner. On arrival back in Cusco following this journey, you’ll disembark and check in to your hotel.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Dinner
Day 17. Cusco, Freedom of Choice Dining
A walking tour of Cusco this morning will take you to the square in the city’s historic heart, the Plaza de Armas, as well as the sacred sites of Koricancha and Santo Domingo. After free time you may wish to dine at one of the following restaurants for lunch or save your Freedom of Choice Dining for this evenings meal. Your choice of restaurants include tapas at Cicciolina; Italian cuisine at Incanto; fine dining at the MAP Café; or a folklore show and dinner at Tunupa Restaurant Bar and Grill.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Dinner
Day 18. Cusco, Lake Titicaca
This morning board the Andean Explorer for a day-long rail journey into the highlands and on to Puno, almost 4,000 metres above sea level. Travelling in Andean Explorer Class (first class), the start of your trip is dominated by the Andean mountains, towering over the valleys below. Later, you’ll reach the Andean Plains, home to wild vicuña and alpaca. On the way, enjoy access to the lounge car and the open-air observation bar car, and be treated to a three-course lunch. On arrival in Puno, check in to your hotel.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Lunch
Day 19. Lake Titicaca
Located on the border of Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is situated at 3,800 metres above sea level, making it the highest altitude lake in the world. This morning, cruise to the home of the Uros people - a group of more than 40 man-made islands created from floating reeds. Afterwards, you’ll visit the isolated Capachica Peninsula, where you’ll enjoy a traditional BBQ lunch.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Lunch
Day 20. Lake Titicaca, Lima
After flying back to Lima, transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore the city. Tonight, enjoy one of South America’s most unique dining experiences for your Farewell Dinner at Restaurant Huaca Pucllana - set within the ruins of an archaeological compound built between 200 and 700 AD. As you dine, take in amazing views of the adobe pyramid, digs and walls of the complex.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Dinner
Day 21. Lima, Quito (Ecuador)
Depart Lima today fly to Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. In 1978, Quito was declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site; and the city’s origins date back to the first millennium. On arrival in Quito, check in to your hotel for an overnight stay before tomorrow’s flight.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
Day 22. Quito, Otavalo
This morning after breakfast you’ll enjoy a day trip to Otavalo, notable for its traditional, multi-coloured textiles and Indian clothing markets. Enjoy a fascinating tour here and see how the locals weave a variety of designs in belts and other clothing items. Afterwards, continue to the town of Cotacachi, famous for its leather works.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
Day 23. Quito, Galápagos Islands Cruise
This morning after breakfast you will depart Quito and fly to Baltra Island. On arrival, you will be transferred to your ship, the MV Galapagos Explorer II. One of the newest ships cruising the Galápagos archipelago, this all-suite expedition cruiser caters for 100 guests and is fully air-conditioned. Facilities include a restaurant; two bars; a jacuzzi; a naturalist and research centre; a massage room; and a wildlife observation deck. After settling in to your guaranteed Deluxe Balcony Suite, this afternoon you will discover Cerro Dragon, which is known for its flamingo lagoon. There is also the possibility of seeing one of many of the land iguanas foraging along the trail. Tonight, enjoy your first dinner on board.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Lunch
- • Dinner
Day 24. Galápagos Islands Cruise
This morning visit El Baranco on Isla Genovesa, which is located on the south side of Darwin Bay. The cliffs located in the south are formed by lava and as such are very fragile. Also present on this island is the masked booby. During a boat ride around the cliffs, you will be able to see fur seals and several species of seabirds. This afternoon visit Darwin Bay on Isla Genovesa, which is home to colonies of nesting common frigate, Nazca booby and the swallow-tailed gull. Here you will also find Red-footed booby nests, this being the largest nesting colony in the Galápagos for this pelagic bird. The Royal frigate is also abundant on this island and constitutes one of the main attractions of the island.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Lunch
- • Dinner
Day 25. Galápagos Islands Cruise
This morning will be spent at North Seymour Island. This island is home to a large population of blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls. It also hosts one of the largest populations of frigate birds, with their magnificent red pouches. In the afternoon you will cruise to the northern coast of Isla Santa Cruz. Thanks to its varied volcanic activity, the island’s landscape is studded with small craters along sharp slopes and cliffs. Tonight you will spend the night near Punta Carrion.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Lunch
- • Dinner
Day 26. Galápagos Islands Cruise
This morning, visit Punta Pitt, located at the eastern edge of San Cristobal Island. This is the only site among the Galápagos Islands where you can see the three species of boobies and two species of frigates nesting in the same area. Later, head to Junco o loberia, located on San Cristobal Island. This spectacular piece of coast has been named after the large number of sea lions resting on rocks and sand. In addition to the sea lions, there are a number of species of birds to be seen, including the Canary Mary, frigates and several species of finches. On the rocks of the island, you will also find the impressive large Galápagos marine iguanas, unique to this part of the world.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Lunch
- • Dinner
Day 27. Galápagos Islands Cruise, Quito
This morning your cruise will take you to the new interpretation educational centre of the Galápagos. Here, you will be taken through a comprehensive history of the Islands, natural and human, and you will gain an insight into the conservation efforts being undertaken on the islands. There’s also time to visit the Hall of Natural History, which explains a series of natural circumstances that have occurred throughout the history of the Islands, such as their volcanic origins, their remoteness from the Mainland, their currents, special climate, the arrival of different species, its establishment and much more. After lunch back on board, your cruise concludes as you disembark the MV Galapagos Explorer II and fly back to Quito. Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Dinner with your fellow travellers at Theatrum Restaurante and Wine Bar, located in Quito’s Sucre National Theatre in the Old Town. It is renowned as one of the finest restaurants in all of Ecuador.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
- • Dinner
Day 28. Depart Quito
This morning, take a guided tour of Quito’s Old Town. At 2,800 metres elevation, Quito is the second-highest administrative capital city in the world. After your tour, travel to the site of the ‘Middle of the World’ - where the southern and northern hemispheres meet. Later transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.
- Daily Meals Included:
- • Breakfast
Day 29. Arrive UK
Arrive into the UK.