PERU BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA - STA Travel Hub

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA CPECOEURLOUAMDBOBORILAI&VIA,

Average High Temperature (ºC / ºF)

CITY JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC

Arequipa 20 68 20 68 20 68 21 70 21 70 20 68 20 68 20 68 21 70 21 70 21 70 21 70
Bogotá 18 64 18 64 19 66 18 64 18 64 17 63 17 63 17 63 18 64 18 64 18 64 18 64
Cuzco 17 63 17 63 18 64 18 64 19 66 18 64 18 64 18 64 19 66 20 68 19 66 18 64
Galápagos Islands 27 81 28 68 30 86 30 86 27 81 25 77 24 75 24 75 23 73 24 75 25 77 25 77
La Paz 12 54 13 55 13 55 13 55 13 55 12 54 12 54 13 55 13 55 14 57 15 59 14 57
Lima 26 79 26 79 26 79 24 75 22 72 20 68 19 66 18 64 19 66 20 68 22 72 24 75
Puerto Maldonado 30 86 30 86 31 88 30 86 30 86 30 86 30 86 33 91 33 91 32 90 32 90 30 86
Quito 18 64 18 64 18 64 18 64 18 64 19 66 19 66 19 66 20 68 19 66 19 62 18 64

PERU TOURING & GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS

Free Flights The Inca Trail and the wildlife sanctuary Many tours of South America can be PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA
of the Galápagos Islands are two of South combined with the Galápagos Islands,
If you combine any G Adventures tour America’s undoubted highlights and high and on this page we show three of our
of Peru with a trip to the Galápagos, on many travellers’ bucket lists. There’s no top-selling tours of Peru combined with
we’ll throw in a free one-way flight to worse a feeling than returning home from three of our favourite sailing trips in the
get you between Lima and Quito! an adventure knowing you missed out on Galápagos (which always include return
something great, so our advice is simply flights to/from Quito). Feel free to choose
this… don’t! alternative cruises or tours.

GALÁPAGOS NORTHERN AMAZON TO THE ANDES ABSOLUTE PERU &
& CENTRAL ISLANDS & GALÁPAGOS WESTERN GALÁPAGOS NORTHERN
& INCA DISCOVERY ISLANDS & CENTRAL ISLANDS
FR$3,849 FR$6,199 FR$5,999

Quito Cuzco 14 DAYS Lima Quito 21 DAYS Lima Quito 27 DAYS

Highlights Highlights Highlights

• Four nights of cruising in the Galápagos • Explore the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail • Witness Lake Titicaca and the Nazca Lines
• Climb the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu • Look out for exotic Amazonian wildlife • Conquer the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• See the Sacred Valley & Ollantaytambo • Cruise for seven nights in the Galápagos • Four nights of cruising in the Galápagos

From the unique and fearless wildlife of Hike the Inca Trail to the ‘Lost City’ of Explore Peru’s southern coast and
the Galápagos to the towering peaks of Machu Picchu, and explore the Amazonian its Andean Highlands, and see the
the Peruvian Andes, discover two of South rainforest from the comfort of an intimate floating islands of Lake Titicaca and
America’s iconic highlights in one short but jungle lodge. Top all this with seven nights the extraordinary Nazca Lines. From
sweet adventure. Explore the Galápagos cruising, swimming and snorkelling in the soaring heights of the Inca Trail to
aboard the comfortable boat, the Daphne the waters of the Galápagos aboard the a steamy jungle stay at an eco-friendly
(G3) and enjoy swimming and snorkeling comfortable boat, the Daphne (G3), and lodge, this epic journey combines an
with the sea lions, before flying back to the hike to the Sierra Negra volcano. This all-encompassing tour of Peru with four
mainland for a quick tour of the Highlands amazing adventure takes in many of South nights’ sailing in the Galápagos aboard the
including the classic four-day Inca Trail. America’s iconic highlights. comfortable boat, the Daphne (G3).

Please see the following pages for further Please see the following pages for further Please see the following pages for further
details of this trip’s components, together details of this trip’s components, together details of this trip’s components, together
with inclusions and any local payments: with inclusions and any local payments: with inclusions and any local payments:

Galápagos Northern & Central Islands Amazon to the Andes Absolute Peru
(7 days, Quito to Quito) – page 75 (12 days, Lima to Lima) – page 54 (21 days, Lima to Lima) – page 52

Inca Discovery Galápagos Western Islands Galápagos Northern & Central Islands
(8 days, Lima to Cuzco) – page 48 (10 days, Quito to Quito) – page 75 (7 days, Quito to Quito) – page 75

GAED07HB GAPA10HA GAPH07HB

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 39

QUITO TO LA PAZ ADVENTURE

Quito La Paz

Quito Amazon Jungle
Homestay
ECUADOR

Baños

Cuenca

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Mancora

PERU

Huanchaco Ollantaytambo

Lima Machu Cuzco
Picchu Lake
Titicaca
Paracas Puno
Nazca
Arequipa La Paz

Colca Canyon BOLIVIA

Highlights This epic five-week journey through Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia gives you a chance to really
discover what South America is all about. Discover the archaeology highlights and cultural
• Discover beautiful colonial cities treasures of the Andean highlands, look for tropical birds and native wildlife in the awe-
• Experience traditional Amazonian life inspiring Amazon rainforest, and get your adrenalin pumping with any number of optional
• Soak in volcanic hot springs activities including mountain biking, whitewater rafting and surfing along the Pacific coast.
• Tuck into ceviche by the Pacific coast Best of all, hike the magnificent Inca Trail to witness the sunrise over the mysterious ruins
• Optional flight over the Nazca Lines of Machu Picchu - just one of many highlights on this amazing trip.
• Spot soaring condors at Colca Canyon
• Conquer the challenging Inca Trail DAY ITINERARY
• Enjoy a homestay on Lake Titicaca
01 Quito
Departures 2014 02-04 Arrive into Ecuador’s capital today and head out to explore the city before meeting your Chief
05-06 Experience Officer (CEO) and your new travelling buddies this evening. Quito has a high altitude
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH location at 2,850m (9,348ft) above sea level (make sure you take it easy until you acclimatise),
07-08 and sits in a valley flanked by mountains and several snow-capped volcanoes. Take a stroll around
Jan 06 Feb 09 May 23 Jun 26 Sep 27 Oct 31 09-11 Quito’s beautiful Old Town, which is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, to admire its colonial
Feb 07 Mar 13 Jun 03 Jul 07 Oct 03 Nov 06 12-13 buildings including the 16th Century cathedral and magnificent Compañía de Jésus Church. Its interior
Feb 24 Mar 30 Jun 14 Jul 18 Oct 20 Nov 23 decoration is said to contain one and a half tons of gold and its construction took 170 years!
Mar 01 Apr 04 Jun 29 Aug 02 Nov 08 Dec 12 Amazon Jungle
Mar 19 Apr 22 Jul 05 Aug 08 Nov 25 Dec 29 Travel overland to Tena, one of the gateways to the Amazon, and transfer by truck and then by
Apr 05 May 09 Jul 14 Aug 17 Dec 10 Jan 13 motorised canoe deep into the jungle. Trek through the beautiful rainforest to enjoy a three-
Apr 22 May 26 Aug 09 Aug 12 Dec 24 Jan 27 night homestay at one of the authentic local communities here to appreciate the customs of the
May 04 Jun 07 Aug 26 Sep 29 Dec 30 Feb 02 indigenous population, many of whom maintain a traditional lifestyle despite the encroachment of
May 19 Jun 22 Sep 12 Oct 16 the 21st Century. Look out for native wildlife and plants on nature walks, and cast your eyes upwards
into the forest canopy for glimpses of the tropical birds that call the jungle home. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Inclusions Baños
Baños is one of the most popular resorts in Ecuador, thanks to its lush and verdant location in the
Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic mountains. It’s a great place for adrenalin junkies, with any number of optional activities available
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: such as hiking, rafting, horseback riding or mountain biking. Baños, not surprisingly, is derived from
Recommended for 18-39s Accommodation: the word for ‘baths’, and you can choose from the thermal springs at the foot of Tungurahua Volcano
Simple hotels (23 nts), overnight buses (4 nts), or take a more refreshing dip in one of the pools formed from melting glacial waters. Locals swear by
camping (3 nts), homestay (4 nts) Transport: their restorative powers, and it’s worth getting up early and grabbing a spot in one of the springs to
Public bus, boat, motorised canoe, truck, watch the dawn creep over the mountains.
train, hiking Meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, Cuenca
8 dinners Budget: Allow USD $620-815 Ecuador’s third-largest city, Cuenca, retains a laid-back provincial air with its colonial architecture,
for meals not included Group Leader: Chief museums and art galleries. It is considered by many to be Ecuador’s most beautiful city and it
Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local certainly has a long and chequered history dating back to Inca times when stonemasons from Cuzco
guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour came here to build a showpiece city named Tomebamba. To the north of Cuenca, you can drive
Code: GASEQL through some of Ecuador’s most beautiful scenery to reach the important ruins of Ingapirca, which
remain shrouded in mystery to this day. Also nearby, you’ll find Cajas National Park, an area of stark
My Own Room Available: Fr $449 terrain generally sitting above 4,000m (13,120ft) in the grassy highlands. It offers crystal-clear
lakes, colourful birdlife and endless hiking possibilities.
You might like Mancora
Shorten Your Trip Cross into Peru via the busy border town of Huaquillas and travel down the Pan-American Highway
towards the fishing town of Mancora, where there’s time to hang out with the surfer dudes enjoying
Quito to Lima Adventure the relaxing beach atmosphere. Head south through the Sechuara Desert, one of the driest parts of
the continent (despite the occasional torrential downpour brought on by El Niño). Next, head farther
(15 days, Quito to Lima) along the Pacific coastline to Trujillo, best known for its glorious colonial architecture and the nearby
Chimu ruins of Chan-Chan. Continue by overnight bus on Day 11 to Huanchaco.
(GASEQM) see page 43 Fr $1,399 Huanchaco
Arrive into Huanchaco on the morning of Day 12, where the fishermen set sail in reed boats to keep
Extend Your Trip the town’s restaurants well stocked with delicious, fresh seafood. You have a full day in Huanchaco,
so optional activities can include visiting pre-Inca sites or just chilling out on the beach. You’ll catch
Great South American Journey the overnight bus on Day 13 to Lima.

(65 days, Quito to Rio de Janeiro)

(GASEQR) see pages 20-21 Fr $7,399

40 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

FR$3,799

35 DAYS

Lima PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA
Arrive into Lima this morning, where you then have a full day to take in all the city’s many attractions.
CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 14-15 Lima was founded in 1535 and is known as the ‘City of Kings’. The heart of the old city is Plaza de
Why not add an optional theme pack to Armas, where you’ll find the Government Palace, Archbishop’s Palace and the cathedral, which dates
16-18 back to the 1700s. Take an optional city tour, or head to the wealthy coastal neighbourhood districts
customise your trip? of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro, all of which offer a thriving café culture, cool cocktails and
19-22 hot nightlife. Alternatively, you might like to visit the Museo Rafael Larco Herrera, which houses an
Peru Adrenalin Pack Fr $80 23-25 impressive collection of pottery, mummies and textiles from the Paracas and Nazca cultures. Speaking
26-30 of which... look where you’re heading next!
Whitewater rafting (Cuzco, full day), 31-33 Paracas / Nazca
34-35 Take the morning to explore more of Lima before hopping on a bus down the coast to Paracas, whose
Horseback riding (Cuzco, half day). lively pedestrian avenues hide plenty of little eateries where you can try a seafood ceviche best
washed down with a glass of Pisco Sour - well, the port town of Pisco is just up the road, so it’d be
Peruvian Culinary Pack Fr $170 rude not to! From here, you can make an optional hop over to the Ballestas Islands to take a look
at the sea lions and super-cute penguins, drawn north by the Humboldt Current along these shores.
Learn the art of ceviche from a professional Travelling on to Nazca, stop to visit a winery at the oasis of Huacachina with time for some optional
sandboarding. Nazca is home to some rather bizarre but fascinating lines which have been etched
into the desert on a vast scale. Some of the lines stretch for up to 10km in length, whilst others
resemble a range of animals which are best appreciated from the air. Sign yourself up for an optional
flight over them to come up with your own theories, not just about what they depict but also why
they’re there at all. In the evening, take part in a traditional Pachamanca meal, where the food is
cooked from hot rocks buried underground, before settling down on the night bus to Arequipa. (D)
Arequipa / Colca Canyon
You have a free day in Arequipa, which is Peru’s second most important city after Lima, and known as
the ‘White City’ due to the light coloured volcanic rock used to construct its buildings. The next day,
marvel at El Misti Volcano which stands at an impressive 5,822m (19,096ft), before setting off for a
tour to Colca Canyon, looking out for awesome Andean condors soaring overhead. If you like, take a
dip in the hot springs or pay an optional visit to the Convent of Santa Catalina. Return to Arequipa to
catch the night bus to Cuzco.
Cuzco / Ollantaytambo
Arriving off the night bus, you won’t be disappointed by Cuzco, where thousands of travellers come
to experience its age-old culture, vibrant markets, fascinating museums and ancient Inca sites. If you
want to get active, it’s also a good place to try a spot of rafting, mountain biking or horse riding.
You can climb up the hill to Sacsayhuamán (pronounced ‘sexy woman’) or browse the markets. Travel
through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo where you’ll stay the night before you embark on the
Inca Trail. The town’s major Inca ruin site should give you an enjoyable flavour of what lies ahead.
Inca Trail
You planned your trip around it, and now the time has come to tackle the iconic Inca Trail. It starts
at Km 82 and over the next few days you’ll cover around 44kms (27 miles), crossing no fewer than
three high passes. Warmiwañusca, or Dead Woman’s Pass, is the highest - at 4,198m (13,769ft).
This challenging but highly rewarding trek is filled with beautiful cloud forest and original Inca
constructions including a causeway and tunnel. Take time to absorb its beauty while your porters
race ahead to set up camp. Keep your cameras charged for the final day as you reach the ‘Sun Gate’
to witness sunrise over Machu Picchu - enchanting and epic! Wander around with your guide before
heading back to Cuzco to rest, shower and celebrate. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Puno / Lake Titicaca
You’ll travel by bus through the stunning altiplano region to Puno. Spend the night here, before
taking a boat trip to Tequile Island for lunch in a local restaurant and a spot of shopping in the local
weaving co-operative. See the famous ‘floating islands’ of Uros, constructed from multiple layers of
reeds, and then step into rural life with a village homestay. Take in the extensive views of the lake
and enjoy spectacular sunsets, starry skies and a traditional evening of dinner and dancing. You’ll get
a true feel for life on Lake Titicaca. (B, L, D)
La Paz
Cross the border into Bolivia and climb up to La Paz, the world’s highest city. You can explore to your
heart’s content and spend the last night out with your group. On Day 35, it’s time to bid farewell to
your group as your tour comes to an end in La Paz.

chef (Cuzco & Lima, 2 x half days).

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 41

ANDEAN DISCOVERY FR$2,449

Lima La Paz 21 DAYS

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights

• Savour the Peruvian national drink
• Create a theory for the Nazca Lines
• See the ‘White City’ of Arequipa
• Spot condors in the Colca Canyon
• Discover the charms of colonial Cuzco
• Conquer the ancient Inca Trail
• Wait for sunrise over Machu Picchu
• Stay with the locals on Lake Titicaca

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Active, awe-inspiring and absolutely amazing pretty much sums up this three-week
adventure. Ponder the mysteries of the Nazca Lines, admire soaring condors in the Colca
Jan 05 Jan 25 Jun 02 Jun 22 Sep 09 Sep 29 Canyon and hang out with the locals on Lake Titicaca before getting back to nature hiking
Jan 20 Feb 09 Jun 06 Jun 26 Sep 22 Oct 12 the world-famous Inca Trail. You’ll be thrown into a world of culture so fascinating that
Feb 21 Mar 13 Jun 17 Jul 07 Sep 26 Oct 16 you’ll be examining your return ticket’s change policy. Climb higher, go further and push your
Mar 10 Mar 30 Jun 28 Jul 18 Oct 11 Oct 31 boundaries on this great trip, which has to be way up there (about 4,000m in parts!) on
Mar 15 Apr 04 Jul 08 Jul 28 Oct 17 Nov 06 anyone’s ultimate list of destinations.
Mar 25 Apr 14 Jul 13 Aug 02 Oct 27 Nov 16
Apr 02 Apr 22 Jul 19 Aug 08 Nov 03 Nov 23
Apr 11 May 01 Jul 28 Aug 17 Nov 22 Dec 12
Apr 19 May 09 Aug 03 Aug 23 Nov 29 Dec 19
Apr 27 May 17 Aug 08 Aug 28 Dec 09 Dec 29
May 06 May 26 Aug 13 Sep 02 Dec 13 Jan 02
May 11 May 31 Aug 23 Sep 12 Dec 24 Jan 13
May 18 Jun 07
May 24 Jun 13

Inclusions DAY ITINERARY

Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic 01 Lima
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: 02-04 Arrive, relax and explore the various neighbourhoods that make up Peru’s vibrant capital city.
Recommended for 18-39s Accommodation:
Simple hotels (14 nts), overnight bus (2 nts), 05-08 Paracas / Nazca
camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt) Transport: 09-11 Take the morning to explore more of Lima before hopping on a bus for the short trip down the coast
Public bus, train, hiking Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 12-16 to Paracas, whose lively pedestrian avenues hide plenty of places to try a traditional ceviche. From
lunches, 5 dinners Budget: Allow USD $400- 17-19 here, you have the option to visit the Ballestas Islands to observe sea lions and Humboldt penguins.
630 for meals not included Group Leader: 20-21 As you travel on to Nazca, en route you’ll stop to visit a winery at the oasis of Huacachina and
Chief Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO enjoy time for optional sandboarding. Nazca is home to some rather bizarre but fascinating lines or
on Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, geoglyphs drawn into the desert on a vast scale. Some resemble animals ranging from hummingbirds
Avg 12 Tour Code: GAJML to spiders, monkeys and fish (time to turn on your creative imaginations). Fertility symbols, giant
agricultural calendars and spaceship landing areas are just some of the varied explanations for their
My Own Room Available: Fr $349 existence. Take an optional flight over them to see what you think. In the evening, take part in a
traditional Pachamanca meal (cooked underground) before catching the night bus to Arequipa. (D)
PERU Arequipa / Colca Canyon
You have a free day in Arequipa, also known as ‘the White City’ due to the light coloured volcanic
Lima Machu Ollantaytambo rock used in its construction. The next day, marvel at El Misti Volcano and then set off for a guided
Picchu Cuzco tour to Colca Canyon, looking out for awesome Andean condors soaring overhead. If you like, take
Puno a dip in the hot springs or pay an optional visit to the Convent of Santa Catalina. Drive back to
Paracas Colca Lake Arequipa before taking the night bus to Cuzco.
Nazca Canyon Titicaca Cuzco / Ollantaytambo
Arriving off the night bus, you won’t be disappointed by Cuzco; one of Peru’s most attractive cities.
Arequipa La Paz There are some great museums, churches and Inca sites to check out. Or, if you want to get your
adrenalin pumping then head off river rafting, mountain biking or horse riding. You can climb up
BOLIVIA the hill to Sacsayhuamán (pronounced ‘sexy woman’) or mill around the markets. Travel through the
Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo where you’ll stay the night before you embark on the Inca Trail.
You might like Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Go In Reverse This is it. The time has come for the hike you’ve wanted to do your whole life, and it starts today at
Km 82. Over the next few days you’ll cover around 44kms (27 miles), crossing no fewer than three
Andean Discovery (La Paz to Lima) high passes. Warmiwañusca, or Dead Woman’s Pass, is the highest - standing at 4,198m (13,769ft).
But to keep your mind off the trek the route is filled with beautiful cloud forest and original Inca
(21 days, GAJLM) Fr $2,449 constructions such as a causeway and tunnel. Take time to absorb it all while your porters race
ahead to set up camp. Keep your cameras charged for the final day as you head up to the ‘Sun Gate’
Extend Your Trip for sunrise over Machu Picchu - enchanting and epic! Wander around with your guide before heading
back to Cuzco to rest, shower and celebrate. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Lima to Buenos Aires Adventure Puno / Lake Titicaca
You’ll travel by bus through the stunning altiplano region to Puno. From here, you’ll take a boat trip
(35 days, GASPMB) page 24 Fr $3,699 to visit the floating Islands of Uros before immersing yourself in Peruvian rural life with a homestay
in a small village. Take in the extensive views of the lake and enjoy spectacular sunsets, starry skies
Customise Your Trip and a traditional evening of dinner and dancing. You’ll get a true feel for life on Lake Titicaca. (B, L, D)
La Paz
Peru Adrenalin Pack Fr $80 Cross the border into Bolivia and ascend to La Paz, the highest city in the world. You can explore to
your heart’s content and spend the last night out with your group. Oxygen bar, anyone? On Day 21,
it’s time to say goodbye and head home or embark on further adventures across South America.

42 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

QUITO TO LIMA ADVENTURE FR$1,399

Quito Lima 15 DAYS

Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Explore the colonial charms of Quito
• Meet locals on an Amazon homestay
• Enjoy a thermal soak in Baños
• See snow-capped towering volcanoes
• Take a hike in Cajas National Park
• Chill out on Pacific Coast beaches
• Go surfing in Mancora and Huanchaco
• Tuck into Lima’s speciality - ceviche

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH

Jan 06 Jan 20 May 23 Jun 06 Sep 27 Oct 11
Feb 07 Feb 21 Jun 03 Jun 17 Oct 03 Oct 17
Feb 24 Mar 10 Jun 14 Jun 28 Oct 20 Nov 03
Mar 01 Mar 15 Jun 29 Jul 13 Nov 08 Nov 22
Mar 19 Apr 02 Jul 05 Jul 19 Nov 25 Dec 09
Apr 05 Apr 19 Jul 14 Jul 28 Dec 10 Dec 24
Apr 22 May 06 Aug 09 Aug 23 Dec 24 Jan 07
May 04 May 18 Aug 26 Sep 09 Dec 30 Jan 13
May 19 Jun 02 Sep 12 Sep 26
Discover the best of Ecuador and Peru as you explore the Amazon and Pacific Coast on this
Inclusions 15-day adventure from Quito to Lima. Explore pre-Inca ruins, walk the colonial streets and
get an introduction to the Amazon Rainforest and its indigenous people with three days in
Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic a jungle community. Tear it up on mountain bikes, raft wild rivers, catch a few big waves and
Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: get your adrenalin pumping on exciting optional activities. You’ll also have plenty of free
Recommended for 18-39s Accommodation: time to explore these remarkable countries at your own pace, so that you can create your
Simple hotels (9 nts), overnight bus (2 nts), own perfect adventure.
jungle homestay (3 nts) Transport: Public
bus, boat, motorised canoe, truck Meals: DAY ITINERARY
3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Budget:
Allow USD $300-480 for meals not included 01 Quito
Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) 02-04 Arrive into Ecuador’s capital at any time today, before meeting your Chief Experience Officer (CEO)
throughout, local guides Group Size: Max 16, 05-06 and the rest of your group this evening. Quito is located at 2,850m (9,348ft) above sea level, so
Avg 12 Tour Code: GASEQM 07-08 take it easy until you adjust to the altitude - we recommend a stroll around the beautiful Old Town
09-12 admiring colonial buildings such as the magnificent Compañía de Jésus Church, adorned with gold.
My Own Room Available: Fr $149 Amazon Jungle
13-14 Travel overland to Tena on the edge of the Amazon, before transferring by truck and motorised canoe
Quito Amazon Jungle 15 deep into the jungle. Trek through the rainforest to one of a number of local communities to enjoy
Homestay a three-night ‘homestay’ to learn about the lifestyle of the indigenous population. For some, their
ECUADOR traditional homelands are threatened by the encroachment of industry and cash-crop farming, but
Baños here the rainforest is home to a staggering amount of biodiversity. Spot wildlife and native plant
species on nature walks, and look up into the tree canopy for glimpses of beautiful birds. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Cuenca Baños
Time to get active in the delightfully green mountain resort of Baños, where adrenalin junkies can
Mancora PERU enjoy optional activities such as hiking, rafting, horseback riding or mountain biking. Baños takes its
Huanchaco name from ‘baths’, and you can choose from the thermal springs at the base of Tungurahua Volcano
(‘little hell’) or take a cooler dip in one of the meltwater pools from the volcano’s glaciated flanks.
Lima Cuenca
Ecuador’s third-largest city retains a laid-back atmosphere, and few visitors can resist the charms
You might like of its colonial architecture, flower markets and shady plazas. To the north of Cuenca, the Inca ruins
Extend Your Trip of Ingapirca remain shrouded in mystery and the drive to reach the site takes you through some
of Ecuador’s most beautiful scenery. Cajas National Park, also nearby, is an area of stark terrain,
Quito to La Paz Adventure crystal-clear lakes and hiking trails sitting above 4,000m (13,120ft) in the grassy highlands.
Mancora / Huanchaco
(35 days, Quito to La Paz) Cross into Peru via the busy border town of Huaquillas (an experience you won’t forget in a hurry!)
and travel down the Pan-American Highway towards the fishing and surf town of Mancora, where
(GASEQL) see pages 40-41 Fr $3,799 there’s time to enjoy its relaxing beach atmosphere. Head south through the Sechuara Desert and
along the Pacific coastline to Trujillo, the largest city in northern Peru. Trujillo is best known for its
Great South American Journey beautiful colonial buildings and the nearby Chimu ruins of Chan-Chan. Continue by overnight bus on
Day 11 to Huanchaco, where the fishermen’s boats are constructed from buoyant reeds.
(65 days, Quito to Rio de Janeiro) Huanchaco / Lima
Full day in Huanchaco, where optional activities can include visiting pre-Inca sites or just chilling with
(GASEQR) see pages 20-21 Fr $7,399 a bit of beach time. Catch the overnight bus on Day 13 to Lima, where you then have a full day to
take in the sites. Lima was founded in 1535 and, to grab a feel for its colonial history, you can take
an optional city tour or jump in a cab to the Plaza de Armas. This is the heart of old Lima and where
you can see the spectacle of the changing of the palace guard. The more affluent coastal districts
of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro offer a great café culture and some funky nightlife options.
They’re good places to head if you want to try a seafood ceviche, where the fish is ‘cooked’ by letting
it marinate in acidic lime or other citrus juices. We think a Pisco Sour is the perfect accompaniment.
Lima
The trip comes to an end today in Lima, but there are plenty of tours you can join if you wish to
continue your discovery. In fact, this is just the first leg of our amazing ‘Great South American
Journey’ which will take you all the way to Rio de Janeiro if you have another 50 days to spare!

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 43

INCA EMPIRE FR$2,549

Lima La Paz 15 DAYS

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights

• Discover the colonial charms of Cuzco
• Visit a women’s weaving co-operative
• Trek the beautiful and iconic Inca Trail
• Marvel at Machu Picchu’s majesty
• Cruise Lake Titicaca to floating islands
• Be immersed in a Peruvian homestay
• Explore the pre-Incan Tiahuanaco ruins
• Adapt to the high altitude in La Paz

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH

Jan 03 Jan 17 May 30 Jun 13 Sep 28 Oct 10
Jan 20 Feb 03 Jun 15 Jun 29 Oct 25 Nov 08
Mar 14 Mar 28 Jul 05 Jul 19 Oct 31 Nov 14
Mar 21 Apr 04 Jul 18 Aug 01 Nov 06 Nov 20
Apr 14 Apr 28 Aug 10 Aug 24 Nov 22 Dec 06
Apr 21 May 05 Aug 29 Sep 12 Dec 05 Dec 19
May 17 May 31 Sep 07 Sep 21 Dec 16 Dec 30

Inclusions From the Incan culture high in the Andes to the bustling market-filled streets of La Paz, this
two-week adventure provides a glimpse of Bolivia and a panoramic view of Peru. Embrace
Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard cultures past and present in Cuzco and La Paz, and interact with locals from the region’s
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age communities for moments that few rarely get to experience. Conquer the Inca Trail, one of
Accommodation: Hotels (10 nts), camping the world’s best-known and most challenging hikes, and experience the stunning views of
(3 nts), homestay (1 nt) Transport: Public majestic Machu Picchu. This trip offers the perfect combination of history, scenery, culture
bus, plane, train, boat, ferry, hiking Meals: and rewarding physical challenges... bring it on!
4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget:
Allow USD $250-400 for meals not included DAY ITINERARY
Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)
throughout, specialist guide on Inca Trail, 01 Lima
local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour 02-03 Arrive into Peru’s lively capital city at any time today. Perhaps head out to explore some of its vibrant
Code: GAPIML neighbourhoods and sample your first Pisco Sour cocktail before meeting the rest of your group.
04 Cuzco
My Own Room Available: Fr $449 Rise and shine early this morning for a flight to Cuzco, where the well-worn cobblestone streets
05-08 and numerous churches and museums await your discovery, as do the city’s selection of restaurants,
PERU 09 many of which offer modern twists on traditional Peruvian cuisine. You have a free day to soak up
10 the city’s cosmopolitan atmosphere, browse the markets, or sign up for an optional city tour.
BOLIVIA 11-12 Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
13-14 Today is a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley and the Inca ruins at Ollantaytambo. On your
Lima Machu Ollantaytambo 15 way through the Sacred Valley, you’ll become familiar with Peruvian wildlife, meeting llamas, alpacas
Picchu and vicuñas a-plenty. You’ll pause at interesting Inca sites and visit a Planeterra-supported weaving
project in a local community; a great place to buy one-of-a-kind souvenirs directly from the ladies
Cuzco who make them. You’ll arrive into picturesque Ollantaytambo, where it’s best to get a good night’s
rest in preparation for the trek that starts tomorrow.
Puno Lake Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Titicaca At Km 82, we have lift off! But while the porters will speed on ahead with their super-human
strength, you’ll take it slow, soaking up the scenery and pausing to check out the Inca sites along
La Paz the way. Rolling into camp each night, you’ll be greeted by some truly exceptional food, considering
you’re almost 4kms up into the sky! On the last day, you’ll arrive at the Sun Gate for a spectacular
You might like Fr $2,599 sunrise over magical Machu Picchu. As the morning mist fades, the Inca site will reveal itself before
you. There’s time to climb up to Huayna Picchu or visit the Inca Bridge before retuning to Cuzco
Go In Reverse where you can head out to celebrate with the group or dive into a hot shower! (3B, 3L, 3D)
Inca Empire (La Paz to Lima) Cuzco
(GABILM) Free day to enjoy optional activities such as whitewater rafting, horse riding and mountain biking.

Why not add an optional theme pack to Puno
Travel by bus through the altiplano to Puno, which sits on the shore of Lake Titicaca. it’s a long trip
customise your trip? but the spectacular scenery provides more than ample reward.
Lake Titicaca / Taquile Island
Peru Adrenalin Pack Fr $80 Take a boat trip to the floating islands of Uros before immersing yourself in Peruvian rural life with
a homestay in a small village. It’s a great way to learn about, and participate in, the local traditions.
Whitewater rafting (Cuzco, full day), There’s also the option to visit the Sillustrani burial site. (B, L, D)
La Paz / Tiahuanaco
Travelling once again by bus, cross the border into Bolivia and make a beeline for La Paz, one of
the highest cities in the world. Check out the hustle and bustle of the markets, great for people
watching as well as picking up some unmissable souvenirs. On Day 14, you’ll spend the day visiting
the fantastic pre-Incan ruins of Tiahuanaco, where the mysterious Tiahuanaco people constructed a
great ceremonial centre on the southern shore of Lake Titicaca over 1,000 years ago.
La Paz
Depart La Paz at any time today and head home or off on your next Latin American adventure.

Horseback riding (Cuzco, half day).

44 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

PERU

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

TOP 5 MUST-DO’s

1. HIKE THE INCA TRAIL - OBVIOUSLY!
2. EXPLORE CUZCO’S COLONIAL PAST
3. SEE DAWN BREAK AT MACHU PICCHU
4. LOOK FOR UNIQUE AMAZON WILDLIFE
5. FLY OVER THE NAZCA LINES

IQUITOS / AMAZON
TARAPOTO

LIMA

PUERTO MALDONADO / AMAZO

MACHU PICCHU CUZCO
NAZCA

COLCA CANYON

TREK PERU

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Peru is one of the best places
in the world to seek out some
serious trekking experiences.
The highlight of the treks being
of course the Inca Trail to the
‘Lost City’ of Machu Picchu. In
2011 it celebrated its 100 year
anniversary since its rediscovery
by American archaeologist Hiram
Bingham. As well as the ancient
Inca Trail we offer a variety of
other outstanding treks in the
area, all providing incredible
experiences high up in the Andes.

inca trail government has strict regulations for the machu picchu - other options
flow of travellers, so it’s best to book early
The Inca Trail is an epic once-in-a- - we recommend at least three months in For if you’ve left it too late to secure
lifetime adventure that culminates in the advance. Reservations cannot be held on a permit for the Inca Trail (or feel that
enchanting and mysterious Lost City of the the trail and all permits must be bought the trek might be a little strenuous):
Incas: Machu Picchu. It’s a challenge that in advance with complete and correct
features on most ‘do before I die’ lists and passport information. • Inca Discovery - Lares An amazing
it’s easy to see why. Over four days you three-day trek ending with a train
will cover 27 miles (43kms) and climb to a What you need to book ride & guided tour of Machu Picchu.
maximum height of 4,200m (13,776 feet).
The trail combines jaw-dropping mountain • Full name (exactly as per passport) • Choquequirao - challenging 8-day
scenery, lush cloudforest, sub-tropical • Date of birth trek from Cuzco to Aguas Calientes.
jungle, a mix of Inca ruins and beautiful • Passport number
flora and fauna. On the last morning you’ll • Nationality • Salkantay Trek - 4-day route
enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, • Date of passport expiry through spectacular mountain
in time for sunrise and to see the magical scenery.
Inca site appear through the morning mist. outstanding alternatives
• Huayhuash Circuit - challenging
book early! If you’ve left it too late for a permit, want 8-day trek through high altitudes.
a trek with a difference or want to see
As a way to preserve the ancient trail Machu Picchu by train, check out our other On all G Adventures tours that include
and site of Machu Picchu, the Peruvian options on pages 49, 53, 58, 59 & 64. the Inca Trail, you can also opt to stay
in Cuzco & visit Machu Picchu by train.

46 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

THE INCA TRAIL FR$1,149

Cuzco Cuzco 7 DAYS

Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Stroll the colonial streets of Cuzco
• Breathe in the crisp mountain air
• Explore Cuzco’s choice of museums
• Haggle at the local markets
• Guided tour of the Sacred Valley
• Conquer the world-famous Inca Trail
• Camp under the cloud forest’s stars
• Watch dawn break over Machu Picchu

Departures 2014

Jan Usually daily
Feb Selected dates, typically twice weekly
Mar - Dec Usually daily

Inclusions One of the most popular trips in Peru for those looking to combine the cultural highlights
of Cuzco and the Sacred Valley with the challenge of one of the world’s best-known hiking
Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard trails. The four-day Inca Trail rewards with a stunning combination of the region’s ruins,
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age mountainscapes and cloud forests. Porters run on ahead to set up camp each night, leaving
Accommodation: Hotels (3 nts), camping you carrying only your daypack and free to enjoy the beauty all around. At the end of the
(3nts) Transport: Train, van, hiking Meals: Inca Trail lies the breathtaking Machu Picchu, whose steep terraces and dramatic ruins were
3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Budget: all but hidden from the outside world until their rediscovery in 1911.
Allow USD $80-120 for meals not included
Group Leader: Local representative in Cuzco, DAY ITINERARY
specialist CEO on Inca Trail Group Size: Max
16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GASPIT 01 Cuzco
02 Arrive into the city of Cuzco, and go for a look around before attending a welcome briefing about the
My Own Room Available: Fr $149 week ahead. You’ll find the town buzzing with travellers from all over the world preparing for the Inca
03-06 Trail and those recently returned from treks. Those who take time to explore will be well rewarded
Machu Ollantaytambo 07 as this is the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city, steeped in history, tradition and legend.
Picchu Wander the cobblestone streets packed with old colonial buildings and lap up the city’s surprisingly
PERU Cuzco cosmopolitan atmosphere. There are plenty of museums that will give you a great introduction to the
area’s colonial and Inca past, which can be further explored at the ruins of the Coricancha, once the
Lake Titicaca Inca Empire’s richest temple and literally covered with gold. Be aware that Cuzco sits at an elevation
of around 3,400m (11,200ft), so take it easy on your first day until you acclimatise to the altitude.
You might like Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
Add on a Volunteer Project Head out for a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo. The Sacred Valley is a
lush agricultural region that was an important food source for the Inca and still to this day supplies
Volunteer Cuzco Kids - help the staff at much of the fresh produce used in Cuzco. There will be many Inca ruins along the way, including the
impressive Pisac which you’ll visit, set amidst some stunning scenery and well populated by a curious
a voluntary support centre for children llama or two. You’ll visit a Planeterra women’s weaving co-operative in a local community where
you can pick up some beautiful textile souvenirs and, on market days, further colourful shopping
from under-privileged families opportunities. Arrive into pretty Ollantaytambo, your first taste of what lies ahead on the Inca Trail.
The town and fortress of Ollantaytambo are strategically sited overlooking the Urubamba River
(14 days, GATSPJMN) Fr $799 Valley, and this major ruin site is a great surviving example of Inca urban planning and engineering.
Spend the night in Ollantaytambo, ahead of tomorrow’s adventure.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Physically challenging but supremely rewarding, the world-famous Inca Trail is a four-day hike within
the ability of most people with a reasonable level of fitness. Totalling 44km (27 miles) in length,
and reaching a maximum elevation of 4,200m (13,776ft), you’ll hike over mountain passes, through
cloud forest and past incredible Inca constructions, including an original causeway and tunnel. This
trek will leave you in awe of the ancient civilisation and of the spectacular scenery all around. You’ll
start at Km 82, passing several smaller ruin sites, the first of which is Llactapata. The second day
climbs the long, steep path to Warmiwañusca, or Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point on the trek.
Crossing the next pass, at just under 4,000m (13,113ft) you can enjoy superb views of the snow-
capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Soon you reach the serene ruins of Phuyupatamarca, or the ‘Town
Above the Clouds’ - you’ll either camp here or another 90 minutes farther along close to the ruins of
Wiñay Wayna (‘Forever Young’), with its grandiose terraced hillside setting. Hiking boots and woolly
alpaca hats may not be the height of fashion at home, but here they’re standard issue - it can get
quite chilly at night and you should be prepared for the odd shower along the way. A team of local
porters who speed ahead will make sure you’re fed and watered and camp is set up each evening.
On the last morning, you’ll climb the steps to Intipunku, the ‘Sun Gate’, to catch your first glimpse
of Machu Picchu through the rising morning mist. When you consider its worldwide fame today, it’s
extraordinary to think that not once was it mentioned in the chronicles of the Spanish conquistadors,
and archaeologists are still divided over its function. There’s time to tour the famous Inca ruin, climb
up to Huayna Picchu or visit the Inca Bridge before catching the train back to Cuzco, the city of
civilisation and hot showers! (3B, 3L, 3D)
Cuzco
Depart at any time today, or stick around for a few days more to check out Cuzco’s adrenalin-packed
options. Horse riding, mountain biking and river rafting are just some of the activities at hand.

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 47

INCA DISCOVERY FR$1,399

Lima Cuzco 8 DAYS

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights

• Explore Cuzco’s Inca and colonial past
• Wander through the Sacred Valley
• Visit a local weaving co-operative
• Kit your wardrobe with woolly hats
• View incredible Andean landscapes
• Conquer the Inca Trail’s high passes
• Arrive at the ‘Sun Gate’ for sunrise
• Explore breathtaking Machu Picchu

Departures 2014

Jan Usually daily
Feb Selected dates, typically twice weekly
Mar - Dec Usually daily

Inclusions If your aim is to challenge yourself with an epic hike that will unfold a tale of an ancient
civilisation and incredible constructions, which although hidden for centuries have stood
Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard the test of time, then this is the trip for you. Time in Cuzco will allow you acclimatise to the
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Andean altitude and give you an opportunity to explore its colonial past. A tour through the
Accommodation: Hotels (4 nts), camping Sacred Valley will bring you face-to-face with local life at a women’s weaving co-operative
(3 nts) Transport: Plane, train, van, hiking and a chance to purchase quality souvenirs. But it’s the Inca Trail you’ve come for, so let
Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners nothing distract you from the amazing journey ahead.
Budget: Allow USD $100-160 for meals not
included Group Leader: Local representatives DAY ITINERARY
in Cuzco & Lima, specialist CEO on Inca Trail
Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: 01 Lima
GAPID 02 Arrive into Lima and get out exploring this underestimated city, with its colourful neighbourhoods
03 and charming colonial centre. In the evening, you’ll meet the rest of your tour group, so why not
My Own Room Available: Fr $199 head out with them to sample some Peruvian cuisine including refreshing ceviche, a citrus-marinated
04-07 seafood dish? Wash it all down with Peru’s famous cocktail, the Pisco Sour. Its ingredients - locally-
PERU 08 produced grape brandy and egg white - may not sell it, but trust us, it tastes good and it will
probably be the first of many! Don’t drink too much though, it’s an early start in the morning.
Lima Cuzco
You’ll fly from Lima to the sophisticated colonial city of Cuzco over the Andes Mountains, taking in
Machu Ollantaytambo the spectacular views. Cuzco sits at an elevation of 3,400m (11,200ft), so acclimatise yourself with a
Picchu Cuzco coca tea overlooking the beautiful architecture of the main square. Head to the markets and pick up
that Peruvian jumper you’ve always wanted and as many alpaca woolly hats as you have friends back
You might like home. Poke your nose into the museums and churches and try some authentic Peruvian food - guinea
pig and one of the 3,000 varieties of potato that are grown in and around the Andes. If time permits,
Start & finish in Lima you can head out of town on a biking, horse riding or an action-packed river rafting trip.
Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
Inca Discovery Plus Today is a full-day guided tour through the Sacred Valley and on to the Ollantaytambo ruins. You’ll
(9 days, Lima to Lima, GAPIM) Fr $1,599 uncover hidden mysteries at ancient Inca sites, getting you excited for the big journey ahead. You’ll
Peruvian Culinary Pack visit a Planeterra weaving project in a local community, where you can buy quality textiles direct
from the women who’ve made them. Working your way along the route of the Urubamba River amid
Learn the art of ceviche from a professional the lush agricultural backdrop, there will be more shopping opportunities at the local Pisac market
chef (Cuzco & Lima, 2 x half days). Fr $170 before winding up in pretty Ollantaytambo. The town and fortress of Ollantaytambo have a strategic
location overlooking the Urubamba River Valley, and this major ruin site is a well-preserved example
of the ingenuity and engineering ability of the Inca. Ollantaytambo is a relatively quiet town and it’s
best to spend the evening relaxing ahead of tomorrow’s epic adventure.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
This once-in-a-lifetime journey will cover spectacular scenery and fill your head to the brim with
facts that bring the Incas to life. The views and complexity of the Inca constructions are mesmerising
and it will all help to keep your mind focused on the long walk to Machu Picchu. You’ll move from high
plateaux to dense cloud forest, crossing over three high passes with the most challenging, known
as ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’, standing at a dizzy height of 4,200m. Your local porters will race ahead to
create a camp complete with coca tea and nourishing food to keep your strength up, allowing you to
walk the trail with just your daypack filled with essentials. Along the way, pause at beautifully-sited
ruins such as Llactapata and Phuyupatamarca, and pass through original Inca constructions including
a causeway and tunnel. On the final day, it’s a relatively short walk and then a climb up the steps to
Intipunku, the ‘Sun Gate’, to watch sunrise over Machu Picchu. The magical sight of these mysterious
ruins and perfectly-engineered terraces will take your breath away. Its existence was known for
centuries to the indigenous population, but it was not until a local boy led the American explorer,
Hiram Bingham, to the site in 1911 that its fame started to spread into the outside world. You
can walk around Machu Picchu and even climb up to Huayna Picchu or visit the Inca Bridge before
catching the train back to Cuzco. At last, it’s time to put your feet up. (3B, 3L 3D)
Cuzco
This tour is done, but you may not be. Why not volunteer with some under-privileged kids in Cuzco,
or head into the Amazon Jungle to spot some fascinating creatures? Peru and South America has
plenty more to offer, the only question is just what to do first.

48 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

INCA DISCOVERY BACKROADS & FR$1,749
LARES TREK FR$1,399 HIGHLANDS OF PERU
17 DAYS
Lima Cuzco 8 DAYS Lima Cuzco

Highlights Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Enjoy magnificent Andean vistas along this less-trodden route • Discover stunning mountains and remote cities few tourists visit
• Feel welcomed by the warm Quechua people along the way • Mingle with the locals while travelling on public buses
• See Machu Picchu appear as the early morning mist rises • Conquer the legendary Inca Trail to iconic Machu Picchu

DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY

01 Lima 01-03 Lima / Huacayo
02 Arrive into Peru’s capital today and head out to discover its charms. Arrive in Lima at any time. Head off the beaten track on Day 2 and
03 04-07 jump on board a bus into the Andes to the bustling city of Huancayo.
Cuzco 08-09 Once all checked in, try one of the optional activities. Hike around
04-06 An early start today to fly over the Andes to Cuzco where you’ll be 10-12 unusual rock formations, cruise along on a bike, jump in the saddle
transferred to your hotel. A city steeped in history, Cuzco has a lot to 13-17 or kick back, relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.
07-08 offer travellers so pop on some comfortable shoes, arm yourself with Huancavelica / Ayacucho
a city map and immerse yourself in a city full of tradition and legend. Travel to Huancavelica and arrive in Santa Inés in time to sample
Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo some high altitude nightlife. Opt to explore the mines, wander the
Spend today on a guided tour of Ollantaytambo and the Sacred markets or bathe in the natural thermal springs. On Day 5, head
Valley. Visit the impressive Pisac ruins and a colourful artisan market through the highlands to Ayacucho, with its colonial feel and local
for a spot of shopping. Your trip includes a visit to a Planeterra pre-Inca history. Explore at your own leisure; discover archaeological
weaving project before finishing up in picturesque Ollantaytambo. sites and browse the handicrafts district for exquisite gifts.
Lares Trek / Aguas Calientes Andahuaylas
Over the next three days spend your time hiking incredible mountains Pass through some of Peru’s poorest and rural areas on this
dotted with rural villages on this guided Lares trek to Ollantaytambo. incredible journey to Andahuaylas, set amidst a beautiful glacial
Get your camera ready for some stunning views and spot llamas and valley. Visit the Sondor archaeological site and the Pacucha Lagoon.
alpacas as well as other Andean flora and fauna. You’ll also receive a Cuzco / Ollantaytambo
warm welcome from the Quechua people, whose homeland you’ll have Unwind and acclimatise in the colonial city of Cuzco. Step back in
the rare opportunity to see first-hand. After your hike, you jump on a time as you explore the Sacred Valley or opt for thundering rapids
train for an incredibly scenic ride to Agua Calientes. (3B, 3L, 2D) on a whitewater rafting trip. On Day 12, head to the Inca ruin site of
Cuzco Ollantaytambo to browse shops and explore narrow cobbled streets.
The early morning light offers the best time to view the ‘Lost City of Inca Trail / Machu Picchu / Cuzco
the Incas’ so it’s up at the crack of dawn and off to Machu Picchu. Grab your walking boots for your four-day guided Inca Trail hike. Take
You have free time after the tour to explore on your own and the in its rich culture and breathtaking views from high plateaux to dense
opportunity to climb Wayna Picchu for a more exclusive view point. cloud forest. Finish at Machu Picchu and opt to visit the Inca Bridge
Return by train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy and be transferred to before returning to Cuzco. Your tour ends on Day 17. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Cuzco, from where you can depart at any time on Day 8.

Departures 2014 PERU Departures 2014

Ollantaytambo PERU

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Lima START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Huancayo Ollantaytambo

Mar 14 Mar 21 Jun 20 Jun 27 Oct 10 Oct 17 PMiaccchhuu Lares Mar 09 Mar 25 Jul 13 Jul 29 Nov 02 Nov 18 Lima PMiaccchhuu
Mar 28 Apr 04 Jul 11 Jul 18 Oct 24 Oct 31 Cuzco Apr 06 Apr 22 Aug 10 Aug 26 Nov 30 Dec 16
Apr 11 Apr 18 Jul 25 Aug 01 Nov 07 Nov 14 May 11 May 27 Sep 07 Sep 23 Dec 21 Jan 06
Apr 23 Apr 30 Aug 08 Aug 15 Nov 21 Nov 28 Jun 08 Jun 24 Oct 05 Oct 21
May 09 May 16 Aug 22 Aug 29 Dec 05 Dec 12 Cuzco
May 23 May 30 Sep 05 Sep 12 Dec 19 Dec 26 Huancavelica Andahuaylas
Jun 06 Jun 13 Sep 19 Sep 26
Lake Titicaca Ayacucho

Inclusions My Own Room Available: Fr $199 Inclusions My Own Room Available: Fr $199

Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Basic Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any
Accommodation: Hotels (5 nts), camping (2 nts) Transport: Plane, train, van, hiking Accommodation: Simple Hotels (13 nts), camping (3 nts) Transport: Public bus,
Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Budget: Allow USD $120-190 for meals private van, hiking Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Budget: Allow USD $300-
not included Group Leader: Local representatives in Cuzco & Lima, specialist CEO on 350 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), specialist
Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAPIL CEO on the Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 8 Tour Code: GASPBH

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 49

PERU ON A SHOESTRING FR$1,749

Lima Cuzco 15 DAYS

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights

• Discover Peru’s capital, Lima
• View the mysterious Nazca Lines
• Enjoy a traditional Pachamanca dinner
• Explore the beautiful city of Arequipa
• Wander Cuzco’s cobbled streets
• Buy textiles at a weaving co-operative
• Stay with locals in the Sacred Valley
• Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH This is a trip that’s packed with all the essentials - 15 days of maximum Peru at minimum
cost. The Nazca Lines provide a little mystery and Colca Canyon provides the ‘wow’ factor.
Jan 04 Jan 18 Jun 01 Jun 15 Sep 14 Sep 28 There’s enough time to soak up the delights of Cuzco before a little added extra that not
Jan 11 Jan 25 Jun 08 Jun 22 Sep 21 Oct 05 every visitor to Peru gets to experience - a homestay in the Sacred Valley. After meeting the
Jan 18 Feb 01 Jun 15 Jun 29 Sep 28 Oct 12 locals, your next mission (should you choose to accept it) is the Inca Trail. There are more
Feb 16 Mar 02 Jun 22 Jul 06 Oct 05 Oct 19 activities in store back in Cuzco, all you need is the energy to keep going. This is everything
Feb 23 Mar 09 Jun 29 Jul 13 Oct 19 Nov 02 you imagined Peru would be - and more!
Mar 02 Mar 16 Jul 06 Jul 20 Oct 26 Nov 09
Mar 09 Mar 23 Jul 13 Jul 27 Nov 02 Nov 16
Mar 22 Apr 05 Jul 20 Aug 03 Nov 09 Nov 23
Mar 30 Apr 13 Jul 27 Aug 10 Nov 16 Nov 30
Apr 13 Apr 27 Aug 03 Aug 17 Nov 23 Dec 07
Apr 20 May 04 Aug 10 Aug 24 Nov 30 Dec 14
Apr 26 May 10 Aug 17 Aug 31 Dec 07 Dec 21
May 04 May 18 Aug 24 Sep 07 Dec 14 Dec 28
May 18 Jun 01 Aug 31 Sep 14 Dec 21 Jan 04
May 25 Jun 08 Sep 07 Sep 21 Dec 28 Jan 11

Inclusions DAY ITINERARY

Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic 01 Lima
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: 02-03 Roll up, check in, get out and explore Peru’s bustling capital city. Wander downtown to catch the
Recommended for 18-39s Accommodation: colonial style buildings and see the Changing of the Guard, before meeting your group this evening.
Simple hotels (8 nts, possibly multishare), 04-06 Nazca
overnight buses (2 nts), homestay (1 nt), 07 Travel by bus to Nazca where the mysterious Nazca Lines are etched into the desert landscape.
camping (3 nts) Transport: Public bus, train, 08 Some of these giant lines and symbols resemble animals ranging from hummingbirds to spiders,
hiking Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 09 monkeys and fish. Fertility symbols, astronomical calendars and even spaceship landing areas are
dinners Budget: Allow USD $250-390 for 10-13 just some of the varied explanations for their existence. You can take an optional flight here if you
meals not included Group Leader: Chief 14-15 fancy getting a bird’s-eye view. Other optional activities include a spot of sandboarding to get the
Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO on the adrenalin pumping. In the evening, you’ll partake in a traditional Pachamanca dinner where a variety
Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: Max 16, of delicious treats are wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked with pre-heated rocks buried in
Avg 12 Tour Code: GASPPS the ground. On the evening of Day 3 you’ll board an overnight bus to Arequipa. (D)
Arequipa
My Own Room Available: Fr $169 Arrive with the sunshine into Arequipa, a beautifully white city that’s surrounded by the Andes and
set in the shadow of the El Misti Volcano. Spread your wings like the Colca Canyon’s resident condors
PERU and take an overnight trip to explore its dark deceptive depths. The mountain biking and rafting is
great around here, or if you just want to roam the city then join a city tour and explore the museums
Ollantaytambo and the Santa Catalina Convent. On Day 6, board an overnight bus bound for Cuzco.
Cuzco
Lima Machu This is a city that’ll impress you with its pretty combination of colonial and Inca-inspired
Picchu architecture. Check out the markets, artisan-style shops and tuck into some local treats - try roast
guinea pig or see if you can taste the difference between Peru’s 3,000 potato varieties!
Cuzco Ccacaccollo Community
You’ll travel by bus into the Sacred Valley, to the community of Ccacaccollo. Here, our partners at
Nazca Colca Planeterra support a women’s weaving co-operative which you’ll visit. You’ll meet the women and
Canyon learn about the various stages of the weaving process; from hand-spinning the wool, dying the wool
using natural dyes and participating in a weaving demo. Overnight in a family homestay giving you
Arequipa time to engage with the community, and perhaps learn a few words from the Quechua language. (D)
Ollantaytambo
You might like Travel through the Sacred Valley to the quaint tongue-twister town of Ollantaytambo. There’s the
Learn Spanish in Lima chance to take a tour through the Urubamba River Valley where there will be plenty of alpacas to
befriend and fascinating Inca ruins to explore – all a little teaser for the Inca Trail ahead. (B)
Make the most of your time in Peru and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Get your hiking boots laced up for an epic trek along one of the most revered trails in the world,
learn the language, studying by the beach hiking 44km (27 miles) over the next four days. With your porters taking care of all the hard work,
your attention can be focused on enjoying the trek and inhaling the insanity of the superb views with
(1-48 weeks) see page 61 Fr $530 your fellow companions. Having scaled high passes, on your last day you will arrive at the gateway to
Machu Picchu, to greet the Inca world. If your legs will carry you any further then there’s the option
to climb up to Huayna Picchu or visit the Inca Bridge before returning to Cuzco. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Cuzco
Today is a chance to chill out or party hard in the aftermath of the Inca Trail. If you’ve got any energy
left, there’s the option to go mountain biking, rafting or horse riding. On Day 15, depart at any time.

50 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

INCA HEARTLAND FR$2,999

Lima La Paz 21 DAYS

Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Watch condors soar at Colca Canyon
• Trek the challenging Inca Trail
• Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu
• Live like a local on Lake Titicaca
• Stay in the world’s highest city, La Paz
• Solve the secrets of the Nazca Lines
• Explore the verdant Sacred Valley
• Embrace Inca culture past and present

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Get ready to send your senses into overdrive. Peru is home to snow-capped mountains,
giant sand dunes, picture-postcard lakes and enough ancient ruins to keep archaeologists
Jan 04 Jan 24 Jun 09 Jun 29 Sep 19 Oct 09 employed for centuries! The country offers such a wide range of experiences, it’s hard to
Jan 11 Jan 31 Jun 14 Jul 04 Sep 22 Oct 12 know where to start. Well, look no further, this tour makes it easy and covers the very best
Jan 14 Feb 03 Jun 21 Jul 11 Sep 29 Oct 19 this diverse country has to offer. Hike the Inca Trail, see the incredible floating reed islands
Jan 18 Feb 07 Jun 23 Jul 13 Oct 04 Oct 24 on Lake Titicaca and witness the enigmatic Nazca Lines. Enjoy an epic adventure through
Feb 01 Feb 21 Jun 29 Jul 19 Oct 11 Oct 31 this heartland of Inca culture, travelling through Peru and ending in Bolivia.
Feb 08 Feb 28 Jul 06 Jul 26 Oct 13 Nov 02
Feb 22 Mar 14 Jul 12 Aug 01 Oct 19 Nov 08
Mar 01 Mar 21 Jul 19 Aug 08 Oct 25 Nov 14
Mar 08 Mar 28 Jul 22 Aug 12 Oct 31 Nov 20
Mar 15 Apr 04 Jul 25 Aug 14 Nov 03 Nov 23
Mar 29 Apr 18 Jul 28 Aug 17 Nov 08 Nov 28
Apr 08 Apr 28 Aug 04 Aug 24 Nov 16 Dec 06
Apr 12 May 02 Aug 10 Aug 30 Nov 29 Dec 19
Apr 15 May 05 Aug 15 Sep 04 Dec 02 Dec 22
Apr 24 May 14 Aug 23 Sep 12 Dec 06 Dec 26
May 03 May 23 Aug 29 Sep 18 Dec 10 Dec 30
May 11 May 31 Sep 01 Sep 21 Dec 14 Jan 03
May 24 Jun 13 Sep 07 Sep 27 Dec 20 Jan 09
May 31 Jun 20 Sep 14 Oct 04 Dec 30 Jan 19

Inclusions DAY ITINERARY

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard 01-02 Lima / Paracas
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age 03-04 Arrive in Lima at any time, check-in and enjoy the city. On Day 2, hop on a bus down the coast to
Accommodation: Hotel (15 nts), overnight Paracas. Walk the town’s lively pedestrian avenues, find a café and sample some Peruvian ceviche.
bus (1 nt), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt) 05-07 Nazca
Transport: Public bus, plane, train, boat, This morning, opt to visit the popular Ballestas Islands, an excellent chance to view a lively sea lion
hiking Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 08 colony, pelicans, penguins and other birdlife. Journey by bus to Nazca stopping en route to visit a
dinners Budget: Allow USD $400-$640 for 09 winery and the oasis at Huacachina. One of the world’s greatest archaeological mysteries, the Nazca
meals not included Group Leader: Chief 10-13 Lines perfectly depict birds, insects and animals but are best recognised on an optional scenic flight.
Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO on the 14-16 Arequipa / Colca Canyon
Inca Trail Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour 17-19 Head to Arequipa, a laid-back city surrounded by the Andes Mountains, including the snow-capped
Code: GAPXML 20-21 peak of El Misti Volcano. This delightful colonial town was built from a light coloured volcanic rock,
so older buildings dazzle in the sun, earning it the nickname of the ‘White City’. Take an optional visit
My Own Room Available: Fr $399 to the Convent of Santa Catalina. Travel a rough, rutted road to Colca Canyon - the deepest in the
world, stopping at the picturesque village of Chivay for a dip in the thermal baths. Take a tour around
PERU the Canyon, hopefully witnessing condors soaring high overhead.
Cuzco
Lima Machu Ollantaytambo Fly to Cuzco and spend the afternoon finding your way around this fascinating city steeped in
Picchu Cuzco history, tradition and legend. Inca-built stone walls line most of the central streets and you don’t
Puno have to go far to see other major ruins. Be sure to check out the main Inca site within the city -
Paracas Colca Lake Coricancha, once covered with gold and the Inca Empire’s richest temple.
Nazca Canyon Titicaca Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
Take a guided tour through the Sacred Valley. Visit the impressive Pisac ruins and the colourful
Arequipa La Paz market. The picturesque village of Ollantaytambo is where you catch your breath for the hike ahead.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
BOLIVIA Depart Ollantaytambo where you begin this amazing trek in the footsteps of the Incas. A local
crew of porters, cook and guide look after you well for the duration of this four-day hike. Admire
You might like breathtaking views at every step as you move from high plateaux to dense cloud forest. As you
reach your final ascent to Machu Picchu, climb the steps to the Sun Gate overlooking the peaks that
Customise Your Trip surround this famous site. When the morning is clear, there is no way to describe the feeling of the
Peru Adrenalin Pack Fr $80 first views of Machu Picchu. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Whitewater rafting (Cuzco, full day), Cuzco
Horseback riding (Cuzco, half day). Spend the next couple of days relaxing at leisure after your trek, or enjoying adventure activities.

Puno / Lake Titicaca
Today, travel through the high altiplano region to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca, with stark yet
beautiful scenery en route. Next day, cruise over to Taquile Island for lunch in a local restaurant and
shopping. Head to Amantani and overnight with a local family to enjoy typical music of the area. Next
morning, you’ll visit the floating islands of Uros en route back to Puno. (1B, 1L, 1D)
La Paz
Enjoy a spectacular drive from Lake Titicaca through the altiplano to La Paz - the highest city in
the world. Explore this busy city sprawling around the base of a canyon. Explore La Paz’s many fine
museums, historic structures and vibrant markets. Say farewell to your mates on Day 21.

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 51

ABSOLUTE PERU FR$3,499

Lima Lima 21 DAYS

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights

• Create theories for the Nazca Lines
• Soak in hot springs in Colca Canyon
• Enjoy a homestay on Lake Titicaca
• View incredible Andean landscapes
• Explore Cuzco’s colonial past
• Trek the epic and iconic Inca Trail
• Marvel at the sight of Machu Picchu
• Discover the Amazon’s flora and fauna

Departures 2014

Jan Occasional Thu & Sat
Feb Thursdays, twice monthly
Mar-Jun Every Thu/Sat
Jul-Sep Every Mon/Thu/Sat & occasional Fridays
Oct-Dec Every Thu/Sat & occasional Mondays

Inclusions One of the longest trips in Peru, this tour covers a little of everything that the country has
to offer, and that’s why we call it ‘Absolute Peru’. It starts with a quick twirl in the vibrant
Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard capital, Lima, moving on to the weird and wonderful Nazca Lines and beautiful Arequipa.
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Colca Canyon boasts its majestic soaring condors and on Lake Titicaca the locals are waiting
Accommodation: Hotels / guest houses (13 to welcome you into their home. Colonial Cuzco has churches, museums and adrenalin
nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), overnight bus (1 nt), activities on offer before you set off on the challenging Inca Trail to see Machu Picchu. A
homestay (1 nt), camping (3 nts) Transport: trip into the Amazon Jungle with abundant flora and fauna finishes it up nicely.
Public bus, plane, train, boat, canoe Meals: 6
breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Budget: Allow DAY ITINERARY
USD $350-560 for meals not included Group
Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), specialist 01-02 Lima / Paracas
CEO on the Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: 03-04 Arrive and relax or get out and explore the city before meeting your tour group in the evening. After
Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GAPHPT a free morning on Day 2, you’ll jump on the bus down the coast to lively Paracas.
05 Nazca
My Own Room Available: Fr $399 06-07 If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, don’t miss the chance of a trip to the Ballestas Islands, where you can
08-10 see sea lions, penguins and birdlife galore. Head next to Nazca, where you can take an incredible
PERU 11-12 (optional) flight over the mysterious and extraordinary Nazca Lines. You’ll also have a guided tour
of a pottery studio and a fascinating pre-Inca cemetery in the Nazca Desert with 1,500- year-old
Ollantaytambo 13-16 mummies, bones and pottery. Just don’t let them give you nightmares on the night bus to Arequipa!
Arequipa
Lima Amazon 17 Peru’s second-largest city is colonial Arequipa, surrounded by Andean mountains and El Misti Volcano
Jungle 18-20 which creates a backdrop close to perfection. It’s especially beautiful at sunset. There’s an optional
Paracas 21 city tour and a visit to the brightly-coloured Santa Catalina Monastery, which should not be missed.
Nazca Machu Colca Canyon
Picchu Travel through the desert-like terrain to Chivay for a guided tour to Colca Canyon. Here you’ll watch
for majestic Andean condors soaring through one of the deepest canyons in the world. Afterwards,
Cuzco you can go for a hot soak in the thermal baths. On Day 7, you’ll drive back to Arequipa.
Puno / Lake Titicaca
Colca Puno Hop on a bus to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca; supposedly the highest navigable lake in the
Canyon Lake world. Visit the Uros, Amantani and Taquile Islands before settling down for the night with a Peruvian
Titicaca family in a small village. There is also an optional visit to Sillustani burial site. (B, L, D)
Cuzco / Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
Arequipa Tackle the journey to Cuzco by bus, through the stunning Peruvian landscape. Visit its impressive
churches, wander around the delightful cobbled streets and hit the markets for alpaca wool designs.
You might like Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Why not add an optional theme pack to Over the next few days you’ll tackle the famous Inca Trail, 44km (27 miles) of unimaginable beauty
with quite a bit of hard slog thrown in. You’ll be mesmerised not only by the views but by your team
customise your trip? of porters who’ll race up ahead, ready to greet you later with a cup of coca tea and full-on meal as
your weary feet arrive into camp - they’re absolute legends. On the last day of the trek you’ll arrive,
Peruvian Culinary Pack Fr $170 astounded, into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate as dawn breaks. There is time for exploration
and an optional climb up to Wayna Picchu before returning to Cuzco to celebrate. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Learn the art of ceviche from a professional Cuzco
Choose from some rest and relaxation or active options such as rafting, horse riding and cycling.
chef (Cuzco & Lima, 2 x half days).
Amazon Jungle
Please note this is also available on the After a flight to Puerto Maldonado and a motorised canoe trip, you’ll arrive deep in the Tambopata
Rainforest. From a comfortable, eco-friendly lodge you’ll explore the rich flora and fauna with expert
Classic Peru & Inca Journey trips (opposite). naturalist guides, both on foot and by boat. On Day 20, you’ll fly out of the jungle back to Lima for a
last night on the town with your group. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Start the adventure Lima
Once you’ve recovered from the night before, it’s time to say ‘adios amigos’.

52 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

CLASSIC THE INCA FR$2,299
PERU  FR$2,449 JOURNEY
10 DAYS
Lima Cuzco 12 DAYS Lima Lima

Highlights Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Cruise the waters of Lake Titicaca and stay with a Peruvian family • Weave through the evocative Inca ruins of the Sacred Valley
• Visit a women’s textile weaving co-operative in the Sacred Valley • Ride the train from Aguas Calientes to see spectacular Machu Picchu
• Trek through the cloud forests along the world-famous Inca Trail • Spot abundant tropical wildlife deep in the Amazon Rainforest

DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY

01 Lima 01-02 Lima / Cuzco
02-04 Rock up to Lima and head out to explore Peru’s vibrant capital. Arrive into Lima at any time. Get out, explore and sip on your first
05 03 Pisco Sour – Peru’s famous national cocktail. Early in the morning of
06 Puno / Lake Titicaca 04-05 Day 2, you’ll fly over to Cuzco. Here you’ll have free time to admire
Fly to Juliaca and transfer to Puno. From here, you’ll head out on a 06 the colonial architecture and visit museums, churches and markets.
07-10 boat ride over the waters of Lake Titicaca to visit the floating islands 07-08 Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
of Uros. Spend the night at a homestay in a small village, allowing 09-10 Today, you’ll head out into the Sacred Valley for a full-day guided
11-12 you to gain first-hand experience of their ways of life. (B, L, D) tour of the numerous ruins. You’ll visit a Planeterra weaving project
Cuzco in a local community where the women produce beautiful, brightly-
Travel by bus to Cuzco through the stunning altiplano scenery. The coloured textiles. You can pick up a few bargains at a local market
colonial city of Cuzco awaits with markets and museums to explore. before arriving into Ollantaytambo and visiting the ruins here.
Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu / Cuzco
Today, you’ll stretch your legs on a full-day guided tour in the Sacred Hop on board a local train and wind your way through impressive
Valley to learn about Inca civilisation and the ruins that remain. You’ll scenery to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu and
also visit a Planeterra weaving project in a local community. The night an optional climb up to Huayna Picchu before returning to Cuzco.
will be spent in the pretty town of Ollantaytambo. Cuzco
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Spend today sipping on coca tea in Cuzco’s cafés and watch the world
Km 82 marks the start of your epic journey along the Inca Trail. go by or head off on a thrilling day of adventure activities.
The views of the Andes will astound you, as will your team of local Amazon Jungle
porters who’ll race on, ready to greet you with food and coca tea Fly to Puerto Maldonado and continue by boat into the jungle to a
as you reach camp each night. On the last day, you’ll arrive at the comfortable lodge, which boasts sustainable initiatives such as solar
‘Sun Gate’ and watch Machu Picchu appear through the morning mist panels and rechargeable flashlights. From here, you’ll explore the
before exploring this fascinating and famous Inca site. You’ll return jungle on foot and by boat to see species in their natural habitats.
to Cuzco by train for some welcome home comforts. (3B, 3L, 3D) There’s even the chance to have a go at piranha fishing. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Cuzco Lima
Time for celebrations of your achievement, adrenalin activities or Fly back to Lima on Day 9, and explore its vibrant neighbourhoods.
simply to sit back and relax in a café. Depart at any time on Day 12. After a last night out with your group, depart at any time on Day 10.

Departures 2014 PERU Ollantaytambo Departures 2014 Ollantaytambo
Amazon
PERU Jungle

Jan - Mar Regular Mon / Sat Lima Jan-Dec Every Thursday
Apr - Sep Every Mon / Sat & Occasional Fridays
Oct - Dec Usually every Mon / Sat PMiaccchhuu Cuzco

Puno Lima Machu
Picchu

Cuzco

Inclusions My Own Room Available: Fr $249 Inclusions My Own Room Available: Fr $399

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any
Accommodation: Hotels / guesthouses (7 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt) age Accommodation: Hotels (7 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts) Transport: Plane, private
Transport: Public buses, plane, train, boat, hiking Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 van, train, motorised canoe Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Budget: Allow
dinners Budget: Allow USD $180-280 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief USD $180-280 for meals not included Group Leader: Local representatives in Cuzco
Experience Officer (CEO), specialist CEO on the Inca Trail, local guides Group Size: & Lima, specialist CEO for the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Amazon, local guides
Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAPPC Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GASPIJ

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 53

AMAZON TO THE ANDES FR$2,529

Lima Lima 12 DAYS

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights

• Visit Cuzco’s museums and churches
• Drop into a women’s weaving project
• Bargain at Sacred Valley markets
• Trek over high mountain passes
• Watch sunrise over Machu Picchu
• Motorised canoe into the Amazon
• Spot jungle wildlife with local guides
• Reward yourself with a Pisco Sour

Departures 2014

Jan Usually Daily
Feb Selected Departures
Mar-Dec (Feb 01, 06, 09, 12, 15, 26, 27 & 28)
Usually Daily

Inclusions This adventure offers up an intriguing combination of mountains and jungle, and an
unrivalled range of contrasting scenery, wildlife and cultures. First up, a superb trekking
Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard adventure that’ll rival any in South America - the world-famous Inca Trail. Marvel at the
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age genius of the Incas and gasp at the breathtaking views of the Andes peaks and Machu
Accommodation: Hotels / guesthouses Picchu. After time to catch your breath in Cuzco, move on to the Amazon where you
(6 nts), camping (3 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts) can scan the rainforest canopy for wildlife from the comfort of an eco-friendly lodge,
Transport: Public bus, plane, train, boat, accompanied by expert naturalist guides. Inspiring and rewarding... not bad for 12 days!
canoe, hiking Meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches,
5 dinners Budget: Allow USD $150-240 DAY ITINERARY
for meals not included Group Leader: Local
representatives in Lima & Cuzco, specialist 01 Lima
CEO on the Inca Trail, expert jungle guide in 02 Land into Lima, raring to go on this incredible trip of Peru. Why not start by exploring the various
the Amazon Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour 03 districts of this vibrant capital city? Wander around Miraflores or Barranco for a tasty meal and your
Code: GAPAA first classic Peruvian cocktail – the Pisco Sour. You’ll meet up with your group in the evening.
04-07 Cuzco
My Own Room Available: Fr $299 08 It’s an early morning flight over the Andes to the picturesque colonial city of Cuzco. The day is free
to wander the well-worn cobblestone streets, poking your nose into the churches and marvelling at
PERU Ollantaytambo 09-10 the interesting museums and markets. You’re at an elevation of 3,400m (11,200ft) here in Cuzco, but
Amazon 11-12 a cup or two of coca tea will help you acclimatise to the altitude.
Lima Jungle Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
Today, you’ll travel with a local guide through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. An important source of
Machu food for the Incas, the Sacred Valley is a lush agricultural region that continues to supply the city
Picchu of Cuzco with much of its produce. You’ll visit the impressive Pisac ruins and stop at the colourful
artisan market (market days only) where you can haggle for souvenirs. You will also visit a Planeterra
Cuzco supported women’s weaving cooperative in the local community where you can buy some high quality
textiles directly from the women who made them. The day finishes in the picturesque village of
CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Fr $170 Ollantaytambo, site of another large Inca ruin. Catch your breath and prepare for the hike ahead.
Peruvian Culinary Pack Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Starting at Km 82, you have four days and 44 glorious kilometres (27 miles) of world-famous hiking
Learn the art of ceviche from a professional stretching in front of you. The porters will speed on ahead to set up camp, allowing you to take
it slow, carrying only your daypack and with plenty of time to check out Inca sites along the way.
chef (Cuzco & Lima, 2 x half days). Refresh with delicious meals and coca tea in camp before heading on up over mountain passes to a
maximum elevation of 4,200m through the cloud forest. You’ll arrive at the Sun Gate on your last day
to witness a magical sunrise over the ruins of Machu Picchu. There will be time for an optional climb
up to Huayna Picchu or a visit to the Inca Bridge before returning to Cuzco. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Cuzco
Give yourself a well-deserved round of applause and celebrate the fact you’ve conquered one of the
world’s most famous and challenging hiking trails. Take inspiration from your activities and push your
adrenalin to the max with an optional biking, rafting or horse riding trip.
Amazon Jungle
Flying to Puerto Maldonado in the Amazon Basin, you’ll continue on to a comfortable, eco-friendly
lodge in the Tambopata Rainforest by motorised canoe. During your voyage you will have the chance
to see bird species typical of the river or forest edge. The area is renowned for its diverse plant and
animal populations. Here come the stats… over 1,300 bird species (including 32 types of parrot, 10%
of the world’s total), 200 mammal species, 90 types of frogs, 1,200 types of butterfly and 10,000
species of higher plants. These are all protected within the reserve and although you won’t see them
all, your local guides will definitely be able to help you spot a good number as you explore by boat
and on foot. You can also learn about the extensive practical uses for medicinal plants and other
forest plant resources, which are still used today in traditional techniques for building, fishing and
hunting. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Lima
You’ll fly out of the jungle, back to Lima for a final night out with your group. At the end of this great
trip, ou’ll have so much to discuss and reminisce about the last 12 days together.

54 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

INCA EXPLORER FR$2,899

Lima Lima 15 DAYS

Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Sample fresh seafood in Paracas
• See the Ballestas Islands’ penguins
• Marvel at the mysterious Nazca Lines
• Admire the ‘White City’ of Arequipa
• Explore Incan culture in Cuzco
• Ride a scenic train to Aguas Calientes
• Meet the local people of Lake Titicaca
• Walk the Sacred Valley’s ancient ruins

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Spot amazing wildlife, explore Incan culture and marvel at the mystery of the Nazca Lines
in this cultural and historical tour of Peru; perfect for discovering its hidden treasures.
Jan 05 Jan 19 May 11 May 25 Aug 31 Sep 14 Set sail to the Ballestas Islands, admire the glittering buildings in Arequipa and visit the
Jan 19 Feb 02 May 25 Jun 08 Sep 07 Sep 21 unique floating islands of Uros. Meet the vibrant communities of Lake Titicaca and enjoy
Feb 02 Feb 16 Jun 08 Jun 22 Sep 21 Oct 05 the breathtaking scenery of the Urubamba Valley in comfort as you travel by rail to Aguas
Feb 23 Mar 09 Jun 15 Jun 29 Sep 28 Oct 12 Calientes (for Machu Picchu). Travelling by train will allow you lots of time to explore ruins,
Mar 09 Mar 23 Jun 22 Jul 06 Oct 12 Oct 26 museums and shop for handmade gems in the markets. This is one incredible tour!
Mar 30 Apr 13 Jul 06 Jul 20 Oct 26 Nov 09
Apr 13 Apr 27 Jul 13 Jul 27 Nov 09 Nov 23
Apr 20 May 04 Jul 20 Aug 03 Nov 23 Dec 07
Apr 27 May 11 Aug 03 Aug 17 Dec 07 Dec 21
May 04 May 18 Aug 17 Aug 31 Dec 21 Jan 04

Inclusions DAY ITINERARY

Trip Style: Comfort Service Level: Upgraded 01-02 Lima
Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Arrive any time in Lima, also known as the City of Kings, and take your transfer to your hotel. Spend
Accommodation: Comfortable hotels (14 nts) 03-04 the rest of the day at leisure. Why not visit the city’s many landmarks including the Plaza de Armas
Transport: Private van, plane, train, boat where you’ll discover the Cathedral, Government Palace and Archbishop’s Palace? On Day 2, travel to
Meals: 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner 05-06 the sleepy town of Paracas. Relax, sipping on the Pisco Sour, Peru’s national drink, try local seafood
Budget: Allow USD $350-550 for meals not 07 and take in the unusual and dramatic coastal scenery. (B)
included Group Leader: Chief Experience 08 Ballestas Islands / Nazca
Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides Group 09 Set sail to the Ballestas Islands for sea lion colonies, penguins and birdlife. Continue on to Nazca
Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GAPEI 10-11 stopping at the Huacachina sand dunes along the way. In Nazca, marvel at one world’s greatest
12-13 archaeological mysteries, the Nazca Lines. The patterns and pictures etched in the ground criss-cross
My Own Room Available: Fr $899 14-15 over a wide area of flat desert. The question is, who drew the lines and why? Discover Nazca’s culture
on an included tour to an ancient pre-Inca cemetery where you’ll find 1,500 year-old mummies and
PERU bones strewn on the desert floor, before you’re whisked off to a local pottery studio. (2B, D)
Arequipa
Lima Ollantaytambo Spend a full day driving down the coast to colonial Arequipa. Nicknamed ‘the White City’; its buildings
Cuzco dazzle under the sunlight due to it being built from a coloured volcanic rock called sillar. Head to the
Machu main plaza where you can chill in one of the cafés and admire the nearby cathedral. On Day 6, take a
Picchu city tour and see the historic Convent of Santa Catalina where you’ll find the spectacular mountains
that surround Arequipa, including the famous El Misti Volcano. (2B)
Paracas/ Cuzco
Ballestas Fly off to Cuzco, the hub of the South American travel network and a city steeped in history, tradition
Islands and legend. Explore its Inca-built stone walls and enjoy the many outdoor activities on offer. (B)
Sacred Valley
Nazca Puno On Day 8, enjoy a full day guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit a Planeterra-supported
women’s weaving co-op and discover impressive Pisac ruins before ending the day in the picturesque
Arequipa village of Ollantaytambo, admired for its huge steep terraces guarding the Inca Fortress. (B, L)
Aguas Calientes
CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Travel by train to Aguas Calientes, a town nestled in the hills beneath Machu Picchu where you can
Peru Culinary Pack Fr $170 chill out in the natural mountain hot baths, visit its butterfly house or botanical gardens. (B)
Machu Picchu / Cuzco
Learn the art of ceviche from a professional Enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu. Rise early to see the mist rise
revealing the incredible ‘Lost City of the Incas’. Join your guide for a tour of the site and test them on
chef (Cuzco & Lima, 2 x half days). their Inca history knowledge! Return to Cuzco and spend Day 11 at your own time and leisure. (2B)
Puno / Lake Titicaca
Take in the stark, beautiful altiplano scenery on the way to Puno, the highest night stop on the tour
and famous for its wealth of traditional dances. Set sail on a comfy boat for a guided tour of Lake
Titicaca, the highest lake in the world, before a trip to the unusual floating reed Islands of Uros. (2B)
Lima
Spend the morning hitting the shops for any hidden gems in Puno before flying to Lima on Day 14.
Make sure you treat yourself to Lima’s speciality, a ceviche, perfect for seafood lovers, before your
final night on the town. Say your farewells then depart Lima at any time on Day 15. (2B)

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 55

PERU PANORAMA FR$3,199

Lima Lima 15 DAYS

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights

• Sip a Pisco Sour or two in Lima
• Sail the world’s highest navigable lake
• Enjoy a homestay with a local family
• Wander Cuzco’s cobbled streets
• Challenge yourself on the Inca Trail
• Marvel at sunrise over Machu Picchu
• Stay at a lodge deep in the jungle
• Spot Amazon wildlife with an expert

Departures 2014

Jan, Mar & Dec Selected Mon / Sat
Feb Selected Mon
Apr & Oct Every Mon / Sat
May Every Sat & occasional Mon / Fri
Jun Every Mon / Fri & occasional Sat
Jul-Sep Every Mon / Sat & occasional Fri
Nov Every Sat & occasional Mon

Inclusions This is a nicely-rounded trip that takes in so many different aspects of Peru’s offerings. The
Inca Trail provides the perfect challenge, there’s authentic culture in the form of a homestay
Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard with one of the unique communities on Lake Titicaca and a visit to a Planeterra-supported
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age women’s weaving project. Plus, there is wildlife and nature galore in the Amazon Jungle.
Accommodation: Hotels / guesthouses It’s time to figure out what those complicated settings on your camera actually do and get
(8 nts), camping (3 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts), committing your magical moments to memory. The epic sounds and sights of all this are sure
homestay (1 nt) Transport: Public bus, private to leave you breathless - or is that just the altitude?
van, plane, train, boat, canoe, hiking Meals:
6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Budget: DAY ITINERARY
Allow USD $200-320 for meals not included
Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), 01 Lima
specialist CEO on the Inca Trail, expert jungle 02-04 Arrive at any time. Explore the city before you meet your group in the evening. Why not get your
guide in the Amazon Group Size: Max 16, Avg 05 friendships off to a flying start with your first taste of Peru’s famous cocktail, the Pisco Sour?
12 Tour Code: GAPPP 06 Puno / Lake Titicaca
Take a morning flight to Juliaca and wind your way into Puno, nestled on the shores of Lake Titicaca.
My Own Room Available: Fr $299 07-10 Reputed to be the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca is a prime location for some truly
perfect pictures; beautiful blue as far as the eye can see with impressive glacial spears poking though
PERU Ollantaytambo 11 the distant clouds. Visit Taquile and the floating islands of Uros before reaching a small village where
Amazon you’ll stay with the locals – a fantastic way to get a taste of their traditional culture. (B, L, D)
Lima Jungle 12-14 Cuzco
15 All aboard the bus to Cuzco. It’s one of Peru’s most attractive and cosmopolitan cities. A marriage
Machu between the Incas and Spanish colonial styles makes this city architecturally interesting and very
Picchu pretty. There are markets to explore and churches to admire while you prepare for the hike ahead.
Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
Cuzco Today you’ll travel through the Sacred Valley, discovering hidden gems as you weave along the
Urubamba River, arriving into the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo. Along the way you’ll stop at
Puno interesting Inca sites, whetting your appetite for the Inca Trail. Your guide will talk you through the
Lake steep terrace system and the impressive fortress. You’ll also stop off to visit a Planeterra weaving
project in a local community and have shopping opportunities at a local market.
Titicaca Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Time to make (personal) history as you head up to Km 82 and begin your trek. Over the next four
CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP days you’ll cover around 44kms, with no fewer than three high passes to cross. The mother of all
Peru Culinary Pack Fr $170 steep bits is known as Dead Woman’s Pass, standing at a height of 4,200m (that’s an impressive 4km
up into the sky). But with incredible ruins at every turn and a team of dedicated porters to lighten
Learn the art of ceviche from a professional your load, the heights and distance should not be an issue, assuming a reasonable level of fitness.
When you’ve finished gasping and sighing at the dream-like sight of Machu Picchu at sunrise, there’s
chef (Cuzco & Lima, 2 x half days). plenty of time to roam around the site. Afterwards, you’ll catch the train back to Cuzco. (3B, 3L, 3D)
Cuzco
FACEBOOK.COM/STATRAVEL.AU Wake up feeling refreshed and revitalised before heading off on some of the optional adventures
Cuzco offers. Ride raucous rapids down the Urubamba River, wobble off on a bike or saddle up on a
horse. Sacsayhuaman, pronounced ‘sexy woman’, is also only a hillside stroll away - but you might
just want to sit back, relax and swear you’ll never combine alcohol with altitude ever again. Ouch!
Amazon Jungle / Lima
Fly over to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the lowlands of the Amazon Jungle. A motorised canoe will
greet you to whisk you along the river to your comfortable, eco-friendly lodge in the Tambopata
Rainforest. A local naturalist guide will get you familiar with the abundant flora and fauna. But don’t
expect to come out knowing the name of everything by heart - it holds the world record for the most
bird sightings in one area and just one square kilometre typically holds 75,000 types of tree! You’ll
fly back to Lima on Day 14, for one last night out with your group. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Lima
Time to wave goodbye to your group – you can leave at any time. Head off home or on to another
adventure – what country’s next?

56 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

QUEST OF THE GODS FR$3,299

Lima Lima 14 DAYS

Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Canoe up river in the Amazon Jungle
• Spot abundant rainforest wildlife
• Relax in the colonial delights of Cuzco
• Guided tour of the Sacred Valley
• Hike and camp along the Inca Trail
• Witness first light over Machu Picchu
• Discover ancient civilisations
• Stay with the locals on Lake Titicaca

Departures 2014

Jan-Apr Regular Thursdays / Sundays
May-Oct Every Thursday / Sunday
Nov Every Thursday & Regular Sundays
Dec Regular Thursdays & Every Sunday

Inclusions Peru is number one on a lot of peoples’ bucket lists. A quick glimpse at this tour should
satisfy your question ‘why?’. Experience the rich ecology of the Amazon Rainforest and
Trip Style: Comfort Service Level: Upgraded travel from coastal cities to the remote heights of the Andes. Conquer the Inca Trail - one of
Physical Grading: 4 Age Group: Any age the world’s best-known hikes which rewards those willing to break a sweat with a stunning
Accommodation: Comfort hotels (8 nts), combination of Inca ruins, mountains and cloud forests. Finally, you’ll visit vast Lake Titicaca
jungle lodge (2 nts), camping (3 nts) with locals willing to welcome you into their traditional life on their floating islands. It’s a
Transport: Private van, plane, train, boat, hugely rewarding trip, and with comfortable hotels and lodges so you don’t have to rough it.
canoe, hiking Meals: 13 breakfasts, 6 lunches,
5 dinners Budget: Allow USD $200-320 for DAY ITINERARY
meals not included Group Leader: Chief
Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, specialist 01 Lima
CEO on the Inca Trail, expert jungle guide in 02-03 Arrive into Lima where your arrival transfer will be waiting for you. If time permits, head out to
the Amazon Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour 04-05 explore the city. Check out the Changing of the Guards and the cathedral before meeting your group.
Code: GAPQG Amazon Riverboat
06-09 Me Tarzan; you Jane. Get jungle fever as you touch down into Puerto Maldonado at the edge of the
My Own Room Available: Fr $599 Amazon. Jump on a motorised canoe up the Tambopata River to a remote eco-sensitive rainforest
10 lodge and unearth the vast knowledge of your expert naturalist guide as you take in the sights and
PERU Ollantaytambo 11-12 sounds of the jungle. It’s a great chance to see some amazing wildlife - monkeys, giant armadillos,
13-14 capybaras (think giant guinea pigs) and birds galore. You’ll explore on foot and by boat. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Lima Amazon Cuzco / Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
Jungle Head back out of the jungle by canoe before hopping on a plane to Cuzco, high in the Andes at an
elevation of 3,400m (11,200ft). You’ll tour this cultural epicentre with a guide who’ll give you the
Machu lowdown on colonial and ancient history. There will be free time for you to haggle for bargains at
Picchu the local markets, wind your way through the cobblestone streets and take in the museums. On Day
5, enjoy a full-day guided tour of the lush agricultural Sacred Valley, stopping at a women’s weaving
Cuzco co-operative and stunning Inca ruins. (2B, L)
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Puno Head from Ollantaytambo to a point known only as Km 82, where you begin your extraordinary
trek along the world-famous Inca Trail with stunning views of the Andes. For four days, you’ll be
You might like accompanied by a saintly team of porters and guides who’ll be one step ahead of you, preparing
Shorten Your Trip camp. On the final day, you’ll complete the last stage of the Inca Trail before dawn, passing through
Intipunku, the ‘Sun Gate’, and arriving just in time to witness the sunrise breathing life into Machu
In The Shadow of Machu Picchu Picchu. Pretty incredible to say the least. You’ll have the option to climb up to Huayna Picchu or visit
the Inca Bridge before jumping on a train back down to Cuzco. Here you can reflect on the wonders of
(10 days, Lima to Cuzco) your journey and pamper those feet that have carried you so far. For those of you who don’t wish to
tackle the full Inca Trail, no problem, you can enjoy two additional free days in Cuzco before catching
(GAPSM) Fr $2,499 the scenic train to Aguas Calientes which makes a convenient base for visiting Machu Picchu. Either
option returns to Cuzco on Day 9. (4B, 3L, 3D)
CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Cuzco
Peru Culinary Pack Fr $170 This is a well-deserved free day. Relax in Cuzco’s cafés, or grab an alpaca woolly hat or two for your
friends back home. Riding around the nearby hill, Sacsayhuaman, pronounced ‘sexy woman’ is always
Learn the art of ceviche from a professional a bit of fun, if not for the name alone. Adrenalin junkies can opt for other hair-raising activities like
mountain biking or whitewater rafting. But seriously, do you have the energy? (B)
chef (Cuzco & Lima, 2 x half days). Puno / Lake Titicaca
Enjoy spectacular views of the countryside on this full day of travel from Cuzco to Puno, through the
high altiplano. In the morning of Day 12, you’ll head out onto Lake Titicaca for a tour which includes
a visit to the floating Uros Islands. You’ll meet the islanders who’ve maintained their traditions and
way of life. Here it’s the men who know how to knit! If you want to flirt Peruvian-style then make
sure you dress appropriately, as hat and skirt colours are used to clearly indicate marital status. Who
needs Internet dating when you can stand out in all your colourful glory as a spinster? (2B)
Lima
Transfer to Juliaca for the short flight back to Lima, where you can spend your last night lapping up
some seafood ceviche and Pisco Sours. On Day 14, It’s ciao for now, see ya later. Over and out. (2B)

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 57

INCA ANDES & AMAZON FR$2,125
PANORAMA FR$2,249 HIGHLIGHTS
8 DAYS
Lima Cuzco 11 DAYS Cuzco Lima

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights Highlights

• Discover the mind-blowing landscapes and colonial charms of Peru • Watch sunrise over Machu Picchu and spot an alligator in the jungle
• Spend a night in a rustic lodge in the deepest canyon in the world • Enjoy a special stay in a an incredible Amazon Jungle lodge
• Share the moments of your trip with a fun bunch of travel mates • Ride the rails through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes

DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY

01-02 Lima / Arequipa 01-02 Cuzco / Sacred Valley
03-05 Meet your Tour Manager and group this morning before heading out 03 Begin your adventure exploring the ancient city of Cuzco on foot.
06-08 to explore the city sights. On Day 2, catch a flight to the ‘White City’ 04-05 Visit the charming San Blas, La Catedral, San Pedro Market and
09-11 of Arequipa and take in the city’s history on a walking tour. (B, D) 06-08 sample some of the many adrenalin activities. On Day 2, move on to
Arequipa / Colca Canyon / Puno the Sacred Valley for a guided tour of the Pisac ruins before arriving
Journey through the scenic Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve to Peru’s oldest town, Ollantaytambo, for a night. Make sure to try
on your way to the jaw-dropping Colca Canyon. Indulge in a relaxing some local Chicha de Jora (corn beer). (B, D)
hot spring dip in Chivay village and spend a night at a rustic lodge. Sacred Valley
On Day 4, marvel at the almighty Colca Canyon and try to spot the Ready for some action? There is loads on offer in the Sacred Valley;
Andean condor. Later, see the majestic peaks and valleys of the from biking and hiking to rafting, and if you’re still feeling restless,
Andes on the way to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. On Day 6, perhaps opt to go horse riding through the Valley. Alternatively, for a
take a ride on a triciclo before catching a cruise on Lake Titicaca. See modest supplement, you can choose to do the legendary Inca Trail to
the Island of Taquile and the floating Uros Islands. (3B, L, 2D) Machu Picchu. Take a train to Km 104, then trek amongst the cloud
Puno / Cuzco / Sacred Valley forest to the Sun Gate and Guardian House for spectacular views. (B)
Journey towards the magnetic city of Cuzco, at the heart of the Machu Picchu / Cuzco
once-mighty Inca Empire. Stop off at Pukara to see its ancient Inca Rise early this morning to see an incredible sunrise over Machu
ruins and the last remaining two-storey Inca walls in Raqchi before Picchu and a tour of the Temple of Three Windows, ceremonial baths
arriving to Cuzco. On Day 7, explore the city’s cobbled streets and and altar. On Day 5, feed your adrenalin urge with activities like
unique mix of colonial and religious wonders built on the hefty stone mountain biking and rafting. Enjoy Cuzco’s buzzing nightlife, try some
foundations of the Incas. Next day you’ll visit the Sacred Valley and ‘Cerveza Cusquena’ and join the Illary (Sunrise) club! (2B)
take a tour of the Pisac ruins before a night in Ollantaytambo. (3B, D) Cuzco / Puerto Maldonado / Lima
Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu / Cuzco Take a scenic flight over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s
Indulge in adrenalin activities in the Sacred Valley; from biking and southern jungle. Exciting activities await! Opt to hike through the
hiking to rafting, there’s loads to experience. Alternatively, and for jungle for a canopy climb, then take to the shores and look out for
just a modest supplement, you can choose to hike part of the famous an Amazonian alligator! Tonight, relax in paradise at the incredible
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! On Day 10, enter Macchu Picchu bright Jungle Lodge. On Day 7, embark on a guided catamaran boat trip for
and early for rewarding views of the sun rising above the mountain some wildlife viewing. Keep your eyes peeled for the giant otter! Your
tops. Arrive back to Cuzco, where your trip wraps up on Day 11. (3B) adventure concludes on day 8, as you arrive to Lima. (3B, 2L, 2D)

Inclusions BRAZIL Inclusions

Service Level: Superior Age Group: Exclusively PERU Service Level: Superior Age Group: Exclusively Aguas Calientes
for 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (9 nts, for 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (6 nts, (Machu Picchu) BRAZIL
twin-share), rustic lodge (1 nt) Transport: 1 twin-share), Amazon Jungle lodge (1 nt)
local flight & transfer, private air-con coach, Ollantaytambo Transport: 2 local flights & transfers, private PERU Amazon Lodge
mini-coach or van Meals: 10 breakfasts, 1 air-con coach, mini-coach or van Meals: 7
lunch (2 on trekking option), 4 dinners Group Aguas Calientes breakfasts, 2 lunches (3 for trekking option), 3
Leader: Tour Manager, local guides Group Size: (Machu Picchu) dinners Group Leader: Tour Manager, English-
Max 30 Tour Code: COLICU/COLICUT speaking local guides Group Size: Max 30 Tour
Lima Sacred Code: COCULI/COCULIT
Departures 2014 Valley
Chivay Departures 2014 Lima
Cuzco

Colca Cuzco
Canyon
START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH

Jan 04 Jan 14 Apr 19 Apr 29 Jul 12 Jul 22 START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Sacred Valley
Jan 18 Jan 28 May 10 May 20 Jul 21 Jul 31 Ollantaytambo
Feb 04 Feb 14 May 17 May 27 Aug 02 Aug 12 Arequipa Jan 10 Jan 17 Apr 18 Apr 25 Jun 29 Jul 06
Mar 15 Mar 25 May 26 Jun 05 Sep 27 Oct 07 Jan 24 Jan 31 Apr 25 May 02 Jul 11 Jul 18 Puerto Maldonado
Mar 16 Mar 26 Jun 07 Jun 17 Dec 27 Jan 06 Puno/Lake Feb 10 Feb 17 May 16 May 23 Jul 18 Jul 25
Mar 22 Apr 01 Jun 23 Jul 03 Titicaca Mar 21 Mar 28 May 23 May 30 Jul 27 Aug 03
Apr 12 Apr 22 Jul 05 Jul 15 Mar 22 Mar 29 Jun 01 Jun 08 Aug 08 Aug 15
Mar 28 Apr 04 Jun 13 Jun 20 Oct 03 Oct 10

Additional dates are available, please ask for details. Additional dates are available, please ask for details.

58 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

PERU UNCOVERED FR$3,125

Lima Lima 14 DAYS

Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Bathe in a hot spring in Chivay
• Spend a night at a Colca Canyon lodge
• Spot soaring Andean condors
• Meet local villagers on Lake Titicaca
• Explore the sights of colonial Cuzco
• View Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate
• Look out for incredible jungle wildlife
• Stay at an Amazon Rainforest Lodge

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH

Jan 04 Jan 17 May 10 May 23 Jul 12 Jul 25
Jan 18 Jan 31 May 17 May 30 Jul 21 Aug 03
Feb 04 Feb 17 May 26 Jun 08 Aug 02 Aug 15
Mar 15 Mar 28 Jun 07 Jun 20 Sep 27 Oct 10
Mar 16 Mar 29 Jun 14 Jun 27 Dec 27 Jun 09
Apr 12 Apr 25 Jun 23 Jul 06
Apr 19 May 02 Jul 05 Jul 18

Additional dates are available, please ask for details. From ancient Inca culture, the mighty Andes and dense Amazon Jungle to awesome locals
and delightful llamas, Peru has it all. Take this opportunity to see the floating islands of
Inclusions Lake Titicaca, get involved in some adrenalin-pumping action in Cuzco, admire the incredible
Colca Canyon and spot amazing Amazonian wildlife. The highlight is of course Machu Picchu,
Service Level: Superior Age Group: Exclusively which you have the option to trek to or to take a more relaxed option and go by train. When
for 18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (11 nts, you’re done, you’ll have a great group of mates with you on this trip, to sit back with and
re-live the memories over a Pisco Sour cocktail.
twin-share), Colca Canyon rustic lodge (1
nt), Amazon Jungle Lodge (1 nt) Transport: DAY ITINERARY

3 local flights and transfers, private air- 01-02 Lima / Arequipa
conditioned coach, mini-coach or van Meals: 03 Meet your group this morning before checking out the bustle of Lima’s 43 diverse districts. On Day 2,
04 fly to the ‘White City’ of Arequipa. Delve into the city’s history on a walking tour, covering sites such
13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, (4 lunches for 05 as the Santa Catalina Convent and Plaza de Armas, before sampling the city’s tasty cuisine. (B, D)
trekking option), 6 dinners Group Leader: Tour 06-07 Arequipa / Colca Canyon
Manager, English-speaking local guides Group 08-09 Visit Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to wild vicuña, a relative of the llama. Later,
Size: Max 30 Tour Code: COLILI/COLILIT 09 soak in the hot springs before heading to your rustic lodge in the centre of the Colca Canyon. (B, L, D)
10-11 Colca Canyon / Puno
PERU BRAZIL Spend the morning trying to spot the Andean condor soaring in the Canyon. Later, experience the
12-13 majestic mountains and lakes of the Andes as you travel to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. (B)
Puerto Puno
Maldonado 14 Cruise Lake Titicaca to the island of Taquile and the floating Uros Islands. You’ll visit the locals with
their handmade crafts and famous textiles, to experience their unique culture and way of life. (B, D)
Lima Aguas Calientes Amazon Puno / Cuzco
(Machu Picchu) Lodge First up is Pukara and its ancient Inca ruins. Want a souvenir? Here’s your chance to get an artistic
Ollantaytambo Sacred ceramic bull. At Raqchi, see the last remaining two-storey Inca walls before heading to Cuzco. Next
Valley morning explore this ancient city on a walking tour. Then the afternoon is yours to experience more
Cuzco of the Inca buildings, intricate colonial architecture, artisan shops or adrenalin activities. (2B, D)
Cuzco / Sacred Valley / Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu
Colca Chivay Puno/Lake On Day 8, you’ll take a guided tour of the Pisac ruins in the Sacred Valley before a stop in
Canyon Titicaca Ollantaytambo. Day 9 is adrenalin time! From biking and hiking to rafting there’s loads to experience
before you take the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo in the afternoon. (2B)
Arequipa Option: Inca Trail Trek
For a modest supplement, why not walk in the footsteps of the Incas to complete part of the famous
You might like Fr $6,865 Inca Trail to magnificent Machu Picchu? Take a train to Km 104 and trek among the cloud forest to
the Sun Gate and Guardian House where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views over the site. (B, L)
Extend your trip Machu Picchu / Aguas Calientes / Cuzco
The Adventurer Wake early and be among the first to enter Machu Picchu to see the sun rising above the mountain
(25 days, Lima - Rio de Janeiro) tops. Tour with your guide and on your own before returning to base. Next day, feed your adrenalin
(COLIRJ) see page 32 urges with activities like mountain biking and rafting. Get into Cuzco’s amazing nightlife, try a
‘Cerveza Cusquena’ and dance the night away to join the Illary (Sunrise) Club! (2B)
Try something different Cuzco / Puerto Maldonado
Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper Fly over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the jungle. Tour the city and visit the native Infierno
(11 days, Quito - Guayaquil) community. Hike through the jungle to the canopy tower and along the shores, try to spot caiman, a
(COQOGY) see page 79 Fr $2,965 native Amazonian alligator! You’ll overnight in a jungle lodge. In the morning, a local guide will take
you on a simple catamaran to see wildlife including the giant otter, or maybe try a spot of piranha
fishing before relaxing that afternoon. Another optional activity available is whitewater rafting on the
Tambopata River. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Puerto Maldonado / Lima
Your tour ends on arrival in Lima, where it’s time to say ‘adios!’ to your travel mates. (B)

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 59

LIMA

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA SHOESTRING ROCK SOLID

CONDOR’S FR$15 DORM PUCLLANA $44FR SINGLE
HOUSE $24FR TWIN/DOUBLE LODGE $29FR TWIN/DOUBLE

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST

• Choose from simple, comfy and clean dorms or private rooms • Tuck into the free, hearty brekkie in the outside dining area
• Whip up a feast in the large kitchen • Walking distance from trendy Miraflores’ bars and restaurants
• Created by travellers for travellers • Relaxed, warm surroundings with a personalised twist

Set in the Miraflores area, this fun hostel has a well-stocked and With two living rooms full of comfy sofas, a kitchenette and seven
friendly bar which makes some of the best Pisco Sours in town. uniquely furnished guestrooms, this cosy guesthouse is a real
Hang out in the ‘jungle’ garden, enjoy regular BBQs, chill out in the home from home. Choose from single, double or triple rooms with
lounge, work your way through the extensive movie library or get or without en suites, all with free Internet access. Tidy, secure and
competitive on the ping pong table! brimming with independent style and design, its a real gem.

STAY 4 PAY 3, 01MAR14 - 30JUL14 & 01SEP14 - 31DEC14 LIMCON LIMPUC

rock solid rock solid

EL TAMBO $79FR SINGLE LOS $81FR SINGLE
PERU $45FR TWIN/DOUBLE GIRASOLES $46FR TWIN/DOUBLE

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST

• Enjoy snacks and cocktails at the lounge bar and cafe • Enjoy Peruvian and international dishes in the cafe/restaurant
• Fun, friendly and great value for money • Great location in Miraflores
• Clean and comfy with simple but stylish decor • Catch up with friends or do some planning with free Wi-Fi

This hotel offers top-notch service at an unbeatable price. Ideally This smart and modern hotel is located in Miraflores, a safe and
located in the heart of the tourist district, the en suite rooms lively area near the Central Park and the city’s main attractions.
have simple yet stylish decor complete with a large TV. After the Rooms are tastefully decorated and come with LCD TVs, a safety
delicious complimentary breakfast, use the laundry facilities and deposit box and en suite facilities. Sample tasty cuisine in the
free Wi-Fi. restaurant or if you’re feeling lazy, grab some room service!

LIMTAM LIMLOS

60 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

 JORGE CHÁVEZ INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: 18km ë COOL STUFF TO DO
IN & AROUND LIMA

Aviacion LIMA DISCOVERY TOUR FR$34

Discover the real Lima on a guided

MARIA Primavera Primavera Valasco Astele half-day walking tour of the city’s famous
REINA
sights. Enjoy an informal Spanish lesson,
Republica De Panama
2 wander Jiron de la Union and head off the

Aviacion beaten track to the central market. There,
Tomas Marsano
1 4 you’ll learn about local dishes and typical PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

LA PAMPILLA HUACA PUCLLANA drinks as well as sampling specialities

MIRAFLORES 3 such as churros. Continue on through the

cuito de Pla yas CHAMA historical Plaza Bolivar and finally stop to
Cir
Valasco Astele rest and try a traditional Pisco Sour in the

place it was invented.

BARRANCO LIMDIS
Jorge Chavez
PLAYA LAS LIMA AIRPORT TRANSFER FR$23
CASCADES

Take the stress out of your arrival in Lima

MUSEO with a private airport transfer to whizz
AERONAUTICO
you to your hotel.
DEL PERU

300km TO NAZCA ê LIMTRA

ICA DESERT & FR$413 FLY OVER THE FR$454
SAND BUGGIES 2 DAYS NAZCA LINES
3 DAYS

Discover the beauty of Ica and witness the extreme thrill of sand The Nazca Lines have been shrouded in mystery for centuries.
buggies. You’ll be blown away by the stunning Huacachina Lagoon Who made them? What’s their purpose? Share your theories as
and get to stop at one of the famous wine cellars. Day 2, take you travel from Lima to Nazca, arriving in time to grab dinner. Next
a boat ride out to the Ballestas Islands where you’ll find lots of day, take a tour of the Chauchilla graveyard’s many tombs and
sea birds and sea lions in their natural environment. Returning to ancient pottery followed by a flight over the lines with an aerial
Ica, take a bracing sand buggy ride over the amazing white dunes view of these ancient wonders. It’s by far the best way to view this
before returning to Lima by bus. phenomenon! After a second night in Nazca return to Lima.

Departs: Daily, Lima to Lima Accommodation: Hotel (1 nt) Meals: 1 breakfast Departs: Daily, Lima to Lima Accommodation: Hotel (2 nts) Meals: No meals
Note: 1-day tour available, departing early from Lima with late return Tour included Transport: Return bus from Lima to Nazca Includes: Flight over Nazca
Code: LIMICA Lines Tour Code: LIMNAZ

NAZCA LINES FR$221 LEARN SPANISH IN FR$530
DAY TOUR WITH FLIGHT FULL DAY LIMA
1-48 WEEKS

Set out from the town of Nazca to the arid Peruvian plains and Make the most of your time in Peru by learning the language! Being
discover the wonder of the Nazca Lines. A UNESCO World Heritage able to speak Spanish will help you interact with locals, get around
Site, these well preserved images of stylised birds, spiders, fish easier and mean you can order what you want to on the menu! The
and lizards have been attracting fascinated travellers for years. language school is located in the popular district of Miraflores, a
Jump on a flight to get an unbeatable view of these mysterious safe and lively area near the beaches of Lima making it perfect for
markings. You will also visit the Chauchilla Cemetery to witness a post-class sunbathe! The school has nine classrooms, a relaxing
many tombs and ancient pottery. courtyard, a lounge and free Wi-Fi.

Departs: Daily, Nazca to Nazca Transport: Hotel pick-up & drop-off in Nazca, Start Date: Mondays (arrival day Sunday) Accommodation: Shared apartment
30-minute flight over Nazca Lines Tour Code: NAZNLF (single room) Meals: Self catering Tour Code: GLOBO

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 61

CUZCO & MACHU PICCHU

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA SHOESTRING rock solid rock solid

MILHOUSE $13FR SINGLE PRISMA $58FR SINGLE CASA ANDINA FR$133 SINGLE
CUZCO $25FR TWIN/DOUBLE HOTEL $34FR TWIN/DOUBLE KORICANCHA $67FR TWIN/DOUBLE

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST

Housed in a beautifully restored monastery Located in the historical district of Cuzco With impressive colonial-style design, an
and boasting a boutique feel with a hostel close to the main square is this quaint open air patio and warm interior decor
price tag, Milhouse Cuzco is the best hostel and cosy, colonial-style hotel. Friendly featuring earth tones, this darling hotel
in town. Relax on cosy beanbags with a staff ensure you feel right at home and embraces you. Don’t miss the superb food
refreshing cocktail, chill with a book in the the simple rooms are bright and clean with at the traditional Peruvian restaurant.
courtyard or lounge on one of the comfy private bathrooms and cable TV. Eat in the Rooms are cosy with en suites and free
sofas. There’s also a huge bar to boot - restaurant or head out into the town and Internet access, plus the Koricancha temple
perfect for sharing travelling tales. enjoy the plentiful nightlife. is practically next door!

STAY 4 PAY 3 (DORMS), CUZMIL CUZPRI CUZCAS
STAY 6 PAY 5 (PRIVATE ROOMS) -
03JAN14-30 APR14,01OCT14-30NOV14 FR$221

PERU MIN 7 DAYS
HOP

Lima Cuzco

Highlights

• Meet and have fun with like-minded travellers on this hop-on-hop-off bus
• Travel your way, with a flexible, open-dated ticket
• See the best of Peru and make the most of the free tours along the way

Inclusions Discover the magic of Peru in a fun, flexible and super-safe way by jumping onboard
this new hop-on hop-off bus, operating both ways between Lima and Cuzco. Started
Departs: Lima or Cuzco: Mon, Wed & Fri Includes: by three Irish backpackers who wanted to bring the “hop” idea to Peru, they have
7-stop bus pass, hostel transfers, Spanish lessons, tours employed and trained local Peruvian guides who are fluent in English and Spanish to
mentioned Group Leader: Peruvian English-speaking tour show you tasty restaurants, great hostels, and who’ll teach you a little Español. Make
guide Note: Meals & accommodation not included. An the most of the following free tours enroute: the old Inca City in Pachacamac, see
accommodated option is available Tour Code: PERHOH the Natural Reserve in Paracas, home to an abundance of wildlife, get active and go
sandboarding in Ica (optional extra), climb up the Nazca Lines viewing tower in Nazca,
take a city tour of Arequipa and stroll around a vineyard in Pisco. You’ll make loads of
new mates along the way and there’s no better way of seeing Peru! Uno, dos, tres, go!

62 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

MACHU PICCHU FR$465 MACHU PICCHU FR$553 PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA
BY TRAIN FULL DAY BY TRAIN OVERNIGHT
2 DAYS

Hop on the Peru Railway for a scenic journey from Cuzco all the Enjoy a breathtaking train journey from Cuzco, stopping by the
way to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy this beautiful town of Ollantaytambo for a sneaky peek, to Aguas
quaint mountain town and stretch your legs by walking to Mandor Calientes, to explore the nooks and crannies of this attractive
Waterfall or Putucusi Mountain, followed by a relaxing dip in the little mountain town. Day 2 is an very early start with a morning
thermal hot springs. The famous Inca citadel Machu Picchu awaits transfer to Machu Picchu, allowing plenty of time to visit this
you up the hill from Aguas Calientes where a day of exploration incredible archaeological site with your guide. Explore the hidden
with your guide will certainly be an unforgettable experience. corners of this ancient Inca city before returning to Cuzco.

Departs: Daily, Cuzco to Cuzco Transport: Cuzco hotel pick up and drop off, bus Departs: Daily, Cuzco to Cuzco Accommodation: Hostel (1 nt) Transport: Bus
and train Tour Guide: Professional English / Spanish / Quechua speaking guide & train Meals: 2 lunches, 1 dinner Tour Guide: English speaking guide Tour
Tour Code: CUZMPT Code: CUZMAC

THE SACRED VALLEY & FR$431
MACHU PICCHU
2 DAYS
Cuzco Cuzco

Highlights

• Wander around the Sacred Valley of the Incas taking in the beautiful archeological ruins
• Take a relaxing soak in the beautiful thermal hot springs in Aguas Calientes
• Watch the Inca constructions appear beneath the clouds as the sun rises

Inclusions Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas on this two-day trip; perfect for those short on
time. Departing from Cuzco, spend a day exploring the Sacred Valley where you’ll have
Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hostel with private the opportunity to wander the colourful artisan markets, see beautiful ceramics and
bathroom & hot showers (1 nt) Includes: Cuzco transfers, discover the diverse array of archaeological Incan ruins. Late in the afternoon take the
transport, entrance fee to Machu Picchu Meals: 1 train to picturesque Aguas Calientes where there is the chance to relax in the natural
breakfast, 1 buffet lunch Tour Guide: English speaking tour thermal pools. The following day, an early bus will take you to Machu Picchu, arriving at
guide Tour Code: CUSPIC the summit just in time for sunrise. Watching the awesome Inca constructions appear
beneath the clouds is an incredible sight. Enjoy a guided tour and then explore on your
own - opt to climb to the peak of Huayna Picchu for amazing views over the entire
valley and complex. Machu Picchu-ed out? Then, head back to Cuzco town.

INCA JUNGLE TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU FR$719
WITH ZIPLINING & HUAYNA PICCHU
4 DAYS
Cuzco Cuzco

Highlights

• Mountain bike past changing landscapes and snow-capped mountains
• Walk the real Inca Trail which winds around precipitous slopes and sheer drops
• See the magnificent sunrise over Machu Picchu city

Inclusions The perfect trip for adventure, this exclusive trail follows recently discovered Inca
paths by bike, on foot and by zipline over multiple terrains. Start in Cuzco and take a
Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hostels (2 nts), lodge (1 adrenalin-pumping 60-kilometre downhill bike ride to Santa Maria. Start the following
nt) Transport: Bus, train Meals: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, day with an indigenous coffee and trek to Santa Rosa before continuing on to the real
3 dinners Includes: Mountain bike & equipment, transfers, Inca Trail which winds around precipitous slopes and hair-raising sheer drops. Feeling
hotel pick-up, bilingual guide, entrance to Machu Picchu & daring? Fly from one mountain to the next on a zipline then soak in hot springs. Day 3,
Huayna Picchu, first aid kit, zipline, entrance to hot springs trek an exclusive part of the Inca Trail and admire the incredible view of Machu Picchu
Tour Code: CUZJMP from the top of Llactapata, before arriving in Aguas Calientes. Rise early on Day 4 to
see the Inca constructions at sunrise in Machu Picchu, then hike to Huayna Picchu for
awesome views, before heading back to Cuzco.

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 63

MACHU PICCHU FR$492
JUNGLE TREK - BIKE & TREK
4 DAYS
Cuzco Cuzco

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Inclusions Highlights

Departs: Mon, Wed & Sat Accommodation: Hostel with • Ride your bike through the lush jungle, cruising through fruit plantations along the way
shared bathroom (3 nts) Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, • Trek through the jungle mountains and admire the incredible scenery
3 dinners, 3 snacks Includes: Pre-departure briefing, • Watch the sunrise over the magnificent Machu Picchu city
professional guide, Cuzco hotel pick-up, transfers,
mountain biking equipment, first aid kit Tour Code: Leave Cuzco to begin your adventure. Start with a bike ride into the lush and humid
CUZBAN jungles. See Huamanmarka Archeaological site along the way as you cruise through fruit
plantations and over rivers before arriving at your hostel in Santa Maria. Whilst you’re
LARES TREK TO here, try the optional rafting activity and bounce off rapids along the Urubamba River.
MACHU PICCHU Rise early the following morning and trek through the jungle mountains for views of
pristine landscapes, beautiful flora and fauna and get the chance to meet the locals.
Cuzco Cuzco Spend Day 3 flying through the treetops on South America’s highest zipline (optional),
before taking an easy trek to the hydroelectric station and towards Aguas Calientes
where you can chill out in the gorgeous hot springs. Watch the glorious sunrise, then
take a walking tour of Machu Picchu before returning to Cuzco on Day 4.

FR$758

4 DAYS

Highlights

• Relax in the beautiful hot springs in Lares town
• Enjoy authentic views of life in the Peruvian countryside
• See a spectacular sunrise over the magnificent city of Machu Picchu

Inclusions Escape to a part of Peru that has changed little in the past 500 years! Start in Cuzco,
catch your transfer to Lares town and relax in beautiful hot springs before starting your
Departs: Mon, Wed & Sat Accommodation: Camping (2 six hour trek to Wakawasi for stunning views of glaciers and wildlife. Spend the evening
nts), Hostel (1 nt) Transport: All transportation Meals: 3 meeting local families living alongside nature and get some rest camping under the
breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Includes: Machu Picchu stars. Continue your trek through the Peruvian highlands and tuck into lunch near a lake
entrance fee, professional guide, all transport, pre- before heading for camp in Patacancha town. Peek into a local school on Day 3, and
departure briefing, horses to carry camping/cooking kit, then hike to Ollantaytambo before hopping on a train to Aguas Calientes for a night.
basic sleeping matresses, first aid kit Tour Code: BAMCUZ Your final stop is Machu Picchu. Catch the spectacular sunrise and then take a walking
tour to discover this majestic archaeological site’s history. If you’re still feeling active,
climb to the top of Huayna Picchu for stunning views. Head back to Cuzco on Day 4.

SALKANTAY TREK TO FR$609
MACHU PICCHU
5 DAYS
Cuzco Cuzco

Highlights

• Trek less-beaten tracks in breathtaking mountain-framed jungle
• Treat yourself to a soak in the hot springs amongst the upper jungle
• Admire the breathtaking sunrise over Machu Picchu

Inclusions Leave Cuzco for the great Andes mountain range. Start with a three-hour walk
to Sayllapata enjoying panoramic views of beautiful mountains as you ascend
Departs: Mon, Wed & Sat Accommodation: Camping towards Soraypampa. The next day, rise early to go to Salkantay for views of snow-
(3 nts), hostel (1 nt) Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 capped precipices, before a downhill walk through a dramatic cloud forest towards
dinners, snacks Includes: Machu Picchu entrance fee, Huayracpunku. Walk the upper jungle on Day 3 with its wonderful waterfalls, tropical
professional guide, transfers, pre-departure briefing, fruits and exotic plants. Set up camp and treat yourself to a trip to the hot springs to
mules to carry camping/cooking kit, first aid kit Tour Code: soothe your worn-out feet! Head to the hydroelectric station; then to Aguas Calientes
CUZSAL for another dip in springs before seeing the magnificent Machu Picchu by sunrise on
your last day. Take a guided walking tour and with any energy left, climb Huayna Picchu
(optional). Reminisce on your return to Cuzco with your new travel buddies.

64 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

LAKE TITICACA & COLCA CANYON

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

COLCA FR$287 LAKE TITICACA & FR$88
CANYON TREK 3 DAYS ITS ISLANDS
2 DAYS

On this unmissable trek through the deepest canyon in the world Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, straddles the
you’ll spot plenty of llamas and alpacas in the National Reserve Peru/Bolivia border, giving you a chance to see the pre-Inca ruins
before trekking into the canyon followed by dinner and a night and colourful textiles worn by the locals whose culture has hardly
staying with a local family. Next day, hike into the beautiful changed. Visit unique floating islands whose inhabitants have
Sangalle Valley and take a dip in natural pools. Overnight under the built their own ‘islands’ from layers of reed and explore Inca and
stars in a ‘cabin’ made out of natural materials such as bamboo. Tiahuanco archaeological remains. Dine with a local family and be
Day 3, visit Cruz del Condor and return via Chivay’s hot springs. welcomed into their home for the night, before returning to Puno.

Departs: Daily, Arequipa to Arequipa Accommodation: Homestay (1 nt), Departs: Daily, Puno to Puno Accommodation: Homestay (1 nt) Meals: 1
camping (1 nt) Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Tour Code: AQPCCT/ breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner Tour Code: FJZTIT
AQPCCF

LAKE TITICACA BY FR$542 LAKE TITICACA & FR$235
KAYAK & BIKING DEATH ROAD 5 DAYS SUN ISLAND
3 DAYS

This awesome trip takes you from the tranquil waters of Peruvian Experience Inca culture out on the islands of Lake Titicaca. Set off
Lake Titicaca to the thrilling ride of the Death Road in Bolivia! from Puno to Copacabana which boasts the best beach in Bolivia.
From Puno, kayak across the lake, visit Esteves Island and Llachon The following morning it’s off to the Island of the Sun for some
Peninsula before arriving at Taquile Island. Here, friendly locals will trekking where you’ll visit the Charkana Inca ruins. Next stop is
give you a tour before moving on to La Paz for your mad mountain Yumani for two nights with stunning views over the lake. Enjoy a
bike adventure. Supported by professional vehicles and guides, boat trip to the Island of the Moon and the Virgin Temple. Return
you’ll speed past cocoa plantations, waterfalls and tiny villages. to La Paz with a camera full of amazing photos!

Departs: Daily, Puno to Puno Accommodation: Hotel (4 nts) Meals: 2 lunches Departs: Daily, Puno to La Paz Accommodation: Hostel (2 nts) Meals: 2
& snacks Includes: Mountain bike, helmet and all equipment Tour Code: PUNLTI breakfasts Tour Code: FJZPTL

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 65

AMAZON JUNGLE

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

JUNGLE ADVENTURE IN THE FR$365 POSADA FR$691
TAMBOPATA RESERVE 3 DAYS AMAZONAS LODGE
4 DAYS

Experience abundant wildlife as soon as you begin travelling to On this tour you’ll learn about the forest’s everyday uses – for
your beautiful jungle lodge. Further exploration and jungle walks food, medicine and construction - whilst staying in a rustic
with local guides will have you searching for caimans, capuchin eco-lodge. Climb a canopy tower for knock-out views of expanses
monkeys and even possibly a jaguar! You’ll get a demonstration of standing forest cut by the winding Tambopata River. Paddle an
of traditional fishing methods with the chance to see piranha oxbow lake searching for the resident family of giant river otters
fish. Witness a whole different variety of animals on a night walk and watch as dozens of parrots and parakeets descend most clear
through the buzzing jungle. mornings to ingest the clay on the river bank.

Departs: Daily, Puerto Maldonado to Puerto Maldonado Accommodation: Departs: Daily, Puerto Maldonado to Puerto Maldonado Accommodation:
Jungle lodge bungalow (2 nts) Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Tour Jungle lodge (3 nts) Meals: 3 breakfast, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Note: 2 and 4
Code: PEMJAR night options are also available Tour Code: PEMPOS

BAMBA FR$387
AMAZON JUNGLE
3 DAYS
Puerto Maldonado Puerto Maldonado

Inclusions Highlights

Departs: Daily Accommodation: Bungalow with • Get your camera ready for all kinds of wildlife
private bathroom (2 nts) Includes: Transport • Stay in comfortable jungle bungalows
by air con vehicle and speedboat, guide Meals: • Enjoy river and lake life in the heart of the Amazon
All meals at the lodge Note: Also available from
Cuzco Tour Code: PEMAJP Travel to the heart of the Amazon jungle on the Madre de Dios River to experience
its lushess in person. Day 1, you’ll be met in Puerto Maldonado where you’ll visit the
market and take a boat journey down the Madre de Dios River to your Amazon jungle
lodge where you’ll be welcomed with a cold drink. Visit Monkey Island where you can
spot all kinds of bird and animal life as well as many types of monkey, of course! Day
2 involves a walk to Sandoval Lake. See birds, otters and alligators in their natural
habitat. Spend your time canoeing, fishing or relaxing by this stunning lake. On Day
3, see the sunrise over the river before heading back to Puerto Maldonado. This great
little package is also available as a five-day trip from Cuzco which involves an overnight
bus there and back to get you deep into the jungle.

66 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

AMAZON RIVERBOAT ADVENTURE FR$2,499

Lima Lima 9 DAYS

Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Cruise in style along Amazonian rivers
• Spot sloths, toucans and monkeys
• Keep a look out for the elusive jaguar
• Dine on food fresh from the jungle
• Explore the Pacaya Samiria Reserve
• Interact with the local communities
• See the jungle’s creatures of the night
• Swim in the river with pink dolphins

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Fly up from Lima and hop aboard the Queen Violeta, a comfortable, modern and purpose-
built riverboat to discover the secrets of the Amazon Rainforest. Led by a naturalist guide,
Jan 11 Jan 19 May 24 Jun 01 Sep 27 Oct 05 your cruise will include daily excursions by motorised skiff, revealing exotic wildlife - with
Feb 22 Mar 02 Jun 14 Jun 22 Oct 11 Oct 19 any luck you’ll spot sloths, toucans or pink dolphins. You’ll have two full days of exploration
Mar 01 Mar 09 Jun 21 Jun 29 Oct 25 Nov 02 in Pacaya Samiria Reserve, a chance to interact with the locals, learn about traditional life
Mar 15 Mar 23 Jun 28 Jul 06 Nov 01 Nov 09 in the jungle and meet a local shaman - it’s a rare glimpse of how life ‘on the river’ is lived.
Mar 22 Mar 30 Jul 12 Jul 20 Nov 08 Nov 16 Savour delicious cuisine on board and open a window into a beautiful, hidden corner of Peru.
Mar 29 Apr 06 Jul 19 Jul 27 Nov 22 Nov 30
Apr 05 Apr 13 Jul 26 Aug 03 Nov 29 Dec 07
Apr 12 Apr 20 Aug 09 Aug 17 Dec 13 Dec 21
Apr 26 May 04 Aug 16 Aug 24 Dec 20 Dec 28
May 03 May 11 Aug 30 Sep 07 Dec 27 Jan 04
May 10 May 18 Sep 13 Sep 21
May 17 May 25 Sep 20 Sep 28

Inclusions DAY ITINERARY

Trip Style: Marine Service Level: Upgraded 01 Lima
Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age 02 Arrive in Lima at any time, and catch your included transfer to your hotel to start your explorations.
Accommodation: Amazon riverboat (6 nts) 03
Iquitos / Amazon Riverboat
(all cabins have twin or queen beds, en suite 04 Arise for an early flight to Iquitos where your Amazon riverboat awaits. Before boarding, enjoy the
hustle and bustle of this port town on a city tour and stop off at a manatee rescue centre where
facilities, air conditioning and river views), 05 you will learn about, and have the opportunity to feed, these lovable animals. As the Queen Violeta
comfort hotels (2 nts) Transport: Riverboat, sets sail, relax and let the wild rainforest surround you. Step out onto the roomy observation deck to
plane, private bus Meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 06 watch the world go by, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife such as grey and pink dolphins. (B, L, D)
lunches, 6 dinners Budget: Allow USD $50-80 07 Marañon River / Amazon River / Ucayali River
08-09 After a hearty jungle breakfast, you’ll take an excursion on the Amazon and some of its tributaries to
for meals not included, plus enough to cover see the wonders of the rainforest. The Amazon is home to an abundance of wildlife so you may see
drinks and tips on board the riverboat Group monkeys, sloths, and a variety of birdlife. Enjoy lunch on board, followed by a presentation about the
Leader: Certified Amazon Reserve naturalist Amazon River from your expert guide. Later, you’ll walk along the shores of the Ucayali River, where
guide, support staff on riverboat Group Size: you’ll have an opportunity to see the Victoria Regia water lily - a gigantic aquatic plant. (B, L, D)
Max 32, Avg 28 Tour Code: GAPVIIA Marañon River / Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
Spend a full day in the Pacaya Samiria Reserve - Peru’s largest national park. Keep your binoculars
Iquitos at the ready to catch sight of herons, macaws, monkeys, sloths and many more primate, bird and
Canopy Walkway mammal species. Enjoy another expert presentation on the life, history and culture of the Amazon’s
main tribes. Sail in a catamaran across the Enchanted Lake and relax on the tranquil waters. Before
SamiPriaacRayeaserve dinner, you’ll touch upon the spirit realm by paying a visit to a local shaman. Shamanism is a practice
that involves a practitioner reaching altered states of consciousness in order to interact with the
PERU spirit world. Meeting the shaman will help you understand the traditions of the rainforest. (B, L, D)
Marañon River / Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
Lima Enjoy an early start and witness the Amazon world coming to life. Spy iguanas, river turtles and other
fauna which you may not even have heard of! Embrace the warm hospitality of a local Indian family
and be welcomed into their home for lunch and an introduction to their culture, costumes and way of
life. This evening take a night excursion to discover who comes out after dark in the jungle! Be on the
lookout for mammals, bats, and reptiles such as black caiman and poison frogs. (B, L, D)
Marañon River / Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
Enjoy a picnic breakfast before a ride up the Nahuapa River for a fishing expedition. What’s biting?
Piranhas, of course! Reputedly the most ferocious fish in the world but don’t worry you’ll be quite
safe in your boat. You’ll also visit the picturesque Choroyacu Creek where you have the opportunity
to climb in a dugout canoe and explore this scenic area with the locals. After lunch, plunge into the
cool river for a swim, if you’re lucky you might even share the water with some pink river dolphins.
Get a taste of the jungle at a cooking lesson and sample the results for dinner. (B, L, D)
Nauta / Sapisapi River
Return to civilisation today with a stop in the town of Nauta, where the Ucayali and Marañon Rivers
(the major headstreams of the Amazon), merge. Browse the markets before visiting the Sapisapi River
to look for turtles. Last night on board includes a farewell dinner and live music. (B, L, D)
Iquitos/ Lima
Disembark at the port in Iquitos and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lima. Transfer to
your hotel before spending a final night in the City of Kings. Your tour ends any time on Day 9. (2B)

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 67

BOLIVIA

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

TOP 5 MUST-DO’s

1. WALK ON WATER AT THE SALT FLATS
2. FEEL THE DIZZY HEIGHTS OF LA PAZ
3. HEAD INTO A WORKING SILVER MINE
4. CYCLE DOWN THE ‘DEATH ROAD’
5. FISH FOR PIRANHA IN THE AMAZON

S•ORATA LA•PAZ

• • SANTA CRUZ
•
ORURO
SUCRE

UY•UNI
• SALT LAKES

BOLIVIA DISCOVERY FR$1,449

La Paz La Paz 11 DAYS

Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Conquer the high altitude Andes
• Strike a pose on the Salar de Uyuni
• Ride a 4WD over the salt flats
• Marvel at multi-coloured lagoons
• Explore the mining town of Potosí
• Discover Sucre’s political history
• Step in ancient dinosaur tracks
• Pick up souvenirs at La Paz’s markets

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH

Jan 05 Jan 15 May 31 Jun 10 Sep 12 Sep 22
Jan 17 Jan 27 Jun 13 Jun 23 Sep 21 Oct 01
Feb 03 Feb 13 Jun 29 Jul 09 Oct 04 Oct 14
Mar 14 Mar 24 Jul 11 Jul 21 Oct 12 Oct 22
Mar 28 Apr 07 Jul 19 Jul 29 Nov 08 Nov 18
Apr 04 Apr 14 Jul 26 Aug 05 Nov 14 Nov 24
Apr 18 Apr 28 Aug 01 Aug 11 Nov 20 Nov 30
Apr 28 May 08 Aug 11 Aug 21 Dec 06 Dec 16
May 05 May 15 Aug 24 Sep 03 Dec 19 Dec 29
May 14 May 24 Sep 04 Sep 14

Inclusions Still relatively untouched by tourism, Bolivia offers some of the most dramatic scenery the
continent has to offer, an interesting local lifestyle and cities rich in cultural and colonial
Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard history. The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly the salt flats (a.k.a. the middle of nowhere!),
Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age where perspective is completely distorted. It’s a photographer’s paradise, so get your cameras
Accommodation: Hotels (8 nts), basic hostels poised. Combined with the magical markets and bustling streets of La Paz, the silver mining
(2 nts, multishare) Transport: Public bus, history of Potosí and the colonial glories of Sucre, it’s a trip that’s a little bit off the beaten
train, 4WD truck, plane Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 track but shows off this marvellous country to its best.
lunches, 2 dinners Budget: Allow USD $145-
190 for meals not included Group Leader: DAY ITINERARY
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) from Days 1-9,
return flight to La Paz is not guided Group 01 La Paz
Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GABBDR 02 Arrive into the rather fabulously named La Ciudad de Nuestra Señora de La Paz (the City of Our Lady
03-05 of Peace) at any time today and adjust to the high altitude. At almost 4,000m (13,120ft), this is the
My Own Room Available: Fr $299 highest city in the world. Soak up its spirit as you take an easy stroll around its bustling streets.
06 Uyuni
BOLIVIA 07-09 Transfer by bus or train to Uyuni, an isolated town built seemingly in defiance of its desert-like
10 surroundings in the southwestern corner of Bolivia. Check-in to your hotel, go for a quick wander
La Paz 11 around and stock up on a few snacks and essentials as you prepare for the salt flats excursion.
Uyuni / Salt Lakes Excursion
Sucre You’ll spend the next three days exploring the stunning landscapes between the Salar de Uyuni and
Chile’s Atacama Desert on an exciting 4WD adventure. Take your sunglasses - the already strong
Potosí sun bouncing off the whiter-than-white salt flats is pretty intense and frazzled eyes isn’t such a
Uyuni good look this coming season. The sights are quite simply astounding, particularly once you hit Fish
Salt Flats Island, so make sure you’ve charged your camera well - it’s a photographer’s dream come true. Carry
on along the rugged terrain stopping at the incredible coloured lagoons, home to beautiful flamingos
You might like standing elegant and proud. Pass geysers, boiling mud pools, thermal baths and the whopping
Add on Peru (before or after your trip) Licancabúr Volcano (5,960m) that looms in the distance. Cacti lovers will also be in for their share of
spiky surprises, few other plants can grow in such a harsh environment. (2B, 3L, 2D)
Andean Discovery Potosí
Travel by bus to Potosí, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a tumultuous history and reputation as a
(21 days, Lima to La Paz, or v.v.) silver mining centre during colonial times. Many thousands of indigenous people and slaves brought
here from Africa lost their lives in the silver mines, due to the appalling working conditions. Though
(GAJML) see page 42 Fr $2,449 things have improved today, you still need a sense of adventure if you want to enjoy an optional trip
deep underground into working mine for a close-up look at the methods of extracting the precious
Start the adventure metal deposits. There’s also time to explore the city and to visit the Casa de la Moneda Museum.
Sucre
Continue by bus over to the fascinating, historic town of Sucre which serves as Bolivia’s official and
political capital. The city’s fine museums, colonial buildings and ties to the independence movement
make it a city of strong historical interest. There’s the option to visit an old tin baron’s mansion, a
textile co-operative or head off mountain biking and hiking. If none of those float your boat, then
you can follow in the footsteps of some older visitors too, with a visit to see dinosaur footprints!
La Paz
Fly from Sucre to La Paz this morning, where you have the chance to enjoy an optional city tour
including a visit to the dramatic Valley of the Moon, just outside La Paz. Alternatively, just relax
with a free afternoon to explore the city’s markets and winding streets. Today is a last chance for
souvenir shopping and if that’s the order of the day be sure to check out the Witches’ Market where
you can cure your real and imagined ailments with a whole host of herbal remedies and mysterious
lotions. We can’t vouch for their medicinal qualities, but it certainly makes for a weird and wonderful
way to spend the afternoon!
La Paz
It’s not even a case of swapping numbers or e-mail addresses these days, is it? Get onto your social
networking sites to share all those photos, as you say goodbye to your travelling buddies.

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 69

LA PAZ & BEYOND

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA SHOESTRING ROCK SOLID

HI HOSTEL FR$22 DORM LAS $36FR SINGLE
ONKEL INN $30FR TWIN/DOUBLE BRISAS $30FR TWIN/DOUBLE

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST

• Swap stories with other globetrotters in the sociable bar • Admire the Amazonian landscape from the fifth floor solarium
• Within walking distance of top nightlife, Bolivian-style! • Choose from comfy singles, doubles or triples, all en suite
• Catch some zzzs in squeaky-clean and comfy dorms or privates • Brimming with traditional charm

Well placed in the centre of La Paz and close to hip nightlife - this This hotel is located in the most popular area of La Paz, so you’ll
is a cool spot for cool people. The bright, colourful and uplifting be right in the middle of all the action. The staff are friendly
vibe makes this a top place to bunk down. There’s a TV room, and helpful, there is free Internet and the fifth floor terrace is
kitchen, Internet access, bike rental and a roof terrace with Jacuzzi the perfect place to relax and take in the stunning views. The
boasting spectacular views. comfortable en suite rooms are elegantly decorated.

LPBONK LPBHLB

TOUR TO FR$141 THE DEATH ROAD: FR$160
LAKE TITICACA 3 DAYS DOWNHILL BIKING
FULL DAY

Escape the bustle of La Paz to visit one of the highest lakes in the Bolivia’s North Yungas Road, more popularly known as ‘Death
world! Check out the beaches of quaint Copacabana and marvel at Road’, is said to be the most dangerous in the world. Dropping
Inca Ruins on the sacred ‘Isla del Sol’. Day 1, it’s off to Copacabana 4,000 metres in five hair-raising hours, this is not a trip for the
to visit the Basilica and a local crafts market. Day 2 takes you faint-hearted! You’ll be fully equipped with helmet, gloves, and
to Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun) where walking and trekking will suspension mountain bike for the guided downhill ride of your
reveal a whole host of Inca ruins and sights. Day 3, catch an life. Whizz through sensational scenery and finish up in the lovely
incredible sunrise before heading back to La Paz. village of Coroico, before transferring back to La Paz.

Departs: Daily, La Paz to La Paz Accommodation: Hostel (2 nts) Meals: 2 Departs: Daily Transfers: Departs from HI Hostel Onkel Inn (La Paz) Includes:
breakfasts Transport: Return transfers from La Paz included Tour Code: LPBLAK Mountain bike, helmet and all equipment Tour Code: LPBBIK

70 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

CROSSING THE FR$296 PAMPAS FR$717 PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA
SALT FLATS AMAZONICAS
3 DAYS 6 DAYS
Uyuni San Pedro De Atacama La Paz La Paz

Highlights Highlights

• Cross the largest salt flats in the world • Fly over the snow-capped peaks of the Andes
• Admire brightly coloured lakes and flocks of flamingos • Spend three days on a canoe trip down the Yacuma River
• Check out fossilised coral and 1000-year-old cacti • Swim with dolphins and fish for piranha in the Bolivian Amazonia

This is a spectacular tour of the largest salt flats in the world, the Get up close and personal with Bolivian nature. Start with a night
Salar de Uyuni. Travelling by 4WD with a guide and cook, you’ll in buzzing La Paz and then fly over the beautiful snow-capped
head first to Fish Island - an island of fossilised coral, covered in peaks of the Andean mountain chain La Cordillera Real. You’ll pass
1,000 year-old cacti in the middle of the Salar. Day 2, continue over the green valley of the Yungas to the last hills at the edge,
south past colourful lakes towards Lagoona Colorda, coloured red entering the plains of the Amazonia. Leaving the village later by
by the resident algae. Along the way, view flamingo flocks and wild 4WD, you’ll embark on a three-day canoe round trip up the Yacuma
vicuña. Pass through rugged Andean terrain, arriving at the Arbol River to a campsite. You’ll trek through the Pampas, observing
de Piedra - a stone tree carved from the winds of the area. Your wildlife such as monkeys, crocs and tapirs and take day and night
final day, take a dip in natural hot water pools, then view vibrant excursions. Highlights will include swimming with dolphins and
green Laguna Verde before finishing up at San Perdro de Atacama. night fishing for piranahs, before flying back to La Paz.

Departs: Daily, Accommodation: Simple lodges (2 nts) Transport: 4WD Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hostels (3 nts), camping (2 nts) Meals:
Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Note: Also available in reverse, see 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Transport: Flights between La Paz &
page 116 Tour Code: LPBFLA Rurrenabaque, 4WD, boat Tour Code: LPBPAM

HUAYNA FR$442 MADIDI FR$737
POTOSI NATIONAL PARK
5 DAYS 5 DAYS
La Paz La Paz La Paz La Paz

Highlights Highlights

• Test your fitness at high altitudes • Search for the rainforest’s wildlife
• Watch the sunrise from the mountain summit • Trek past incredible flora and fauna
• Enjoy views of Cordillera Real, La Paz and beyond • Visit an indigenous village in the jungle

The Huayna Potosí mountain, with its glaciated peak, stands Madidi National Park is recognised as one of the world’s most
at 6,088 metres-tall. Climbing to the top will reward you with vast and biologically diverse rainforests with steep jungle terrain,
unforgettable views over the Cordillera Real, La Paz and down into white water rivers, snow-capped mountains and stunning scenery.
the green valleys of the Yungas. Day 1, drive up to a mountain You’ll fly from La Paz to your jungle hub, Rurrenabaque village.
hut, at 4,950m and set out on a training and acclimatisation From here you will head out into the jungle and pampas in search
climb up an old glacier. Your guide will teach you the techniques of anaconda, spectacled bears, otters, jaguars, monkeys and
of mountain climbing, ice walking and use of all equipment. The piranhas. Travel by boat to the special base campsite where you’ll
second refuge, at 5,200m, is reached on Day 2. After a few hours stay for two nights. Spend your days trekking in the jungle and by
sleep, head out up Huayna Potosi, reaching the summit in time for night go in search of wildlife. You’ll also visit a local community to
sunrise. It’s a good idea to acclimatise in La Paz for a few days learn about their way of life. On Day 5, return to La Paz by plane.
before your climb.
Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hostel (2 nts), camping (2 nts) Transport:
Departs: Daily Accommodation: hostel (2 nts), mountain hut (2 nts) Meals: Flights between La Paz & Rurrenabaque, boat Meals: 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4
All meals while climbing, breakfast at hostel Tour Guide: 1 guide per 2-3 dinners Tour Guide: Local guide, driver Tour Code: LPBMNP
passengers & all equipment provided Tour Code: LBPHUY

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 71

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA EGCAULAAPDAOGRO&S

TOP 5 MUST-DO’s

1. SOAK IN THE HOT SPRINGS AT BAÑOS
2. ADMIRE QUITO’S GOLDEN CATHEDRAL
3. RIDE THE DEVIL’S NOSE RAILWAY
4. GET CLOSE TO GALAPAGOS WILDLIFE
5. BE BRAVE: SNORKEL WITH SHARKS!

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

• • TENA

OTAVALO

QUITO •

MACHALILLA ECUADOR

• ALAUSÍ

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

unique and extraordinary PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

They sit 972kms (600 miles) off the
coast of Ecuador, but the Galapagos
Islands may as well be a foreign
planet. Teeming with unique wildlife,
the archipelago is one of the world’s
most captivating destinations.

fly there for free

All our Galapagos tours and sailing
trips include return flights from
mainland Ecuador. If you book any
G Adventures tour in Peru, we’ll also
throw in a one-way flight from Peru
to Quito. See p.39 for more details.

island stays or cruising - how best to visit Central islands - santiago, rABida, bartolomé, baltra, east island - san cristóbal

For many people, the Galapagos will be a santa cruz, south plaza & Santa fé One of the oldest islands, San Cristóbal’s
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but you eroded volcanic peaks are tailor-made for
don’t need to rush round all the islands - Flying into the main airport on Baltra, the hiking and mountain biking. Divers and
the wildlife is so extensive that you can Central Islands may well be your first taste snorkellers will find more than enough to
gain a full appreciation simply by visiting of the Galapagos. Though relatively close keep them entertained below the surface.
two or three. Choose a sailing trip to travel to each other, these small islands have Highlights Include:
in comfort, to enjoy meals on board and to developed in isolation and are among the • Sail through the gap at Kicker Rock and
avoid the need for packing and unpacking. best spots to witness the full scope of the
A land-based tour, where you stay on the archipelago’s incredible natural diversity. snorkel with hammerhead sharks
main islands, is a better choice if you want Highlights Include: • Chill with the sea lions on the white sand
to meet the locals, explore the towns and • See tortoises in the wild in the lush,
rural hinterlands, and to dine in local cafés. beaches of Cerro Brujo
green highlands on bustling Santa Cruz
• Visit the fascinating Charles Darwin northern island - genovesa

Research Station Little more than a rock, tiny Genovesa has
• Explore Puerto Ayora, the main town, an amazing concentration of birds and a
rich variety of aquatic life under the waves.
with its bustling fish market Highlights Include:
• Views of Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé • Look for sea turtles and reef sharks while
• Hidden snorkelling spots and white sand
snorkelling a sunken volcanic crater
beaches on Santiago • Seabird colonies and top-notch views on
• Swim with playful sea lions in the waters
the hiking trail to El Barranco
off North Seymour • Red-footed boobies and frigate birds
• Multi-coloured Rábida offers red cliffs,

pink flamingos and blue-footed boobies

THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS NORTHERN southern islands - floréana & española
ISLAND
Home to first-class snorkelling, the bays
Genovesa and unusual land formations that once
gave shelter to pirates are now home to
Santiago Quito a dazzling array of birds and marine life.
Highlights Include:
Bartolomé EAST • See the waved albatross of Española
ISLAND • Mail a letter and take one home from
Fernandina CENTRAL ISLANDS San Cristóbal
WESTERN ‘Post Office Bay’ on Floréana
ISLANDS Rabida Baltra • Discover the exotic aquatic life while
Isabela
Santa Cruz South snorkeling at Isolte Champion
PACIFIC OCEAN Plaza
western islands - isabela & fernandina
Santa Fé
The largest and youngest of the islands,
Floréana Española Isabela and Fernandina should be ports of
SOUTHERN call for anyone looking for the best wildlife.
ISLANDS Highlights Include:
• Hike to the caldera of Sierra Negra

(1,124m), a classic shield volcano
• Visit massive colonies of marine iguanas
• Relax in laid-back Puerto Villamil

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 73

GALAPAGOS ISLAND SAILING 6-10 DAYS

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA DIVE INTO NATURE’S WORKSHOP SMALL GROUP SAILING to book two back-to-back 10-day trips to
see the entire archipelago, but most guests
Snorkel with sea lions, soak up the sun We work closely with our trusted partner, G are content to do just one 10-day trip or
with iguanas, or sit on deck and marvel Adventures, to bring you an amazing range alternatively one of the shorter 6 or 7-day
at the natural beauty – just a typical day of sailing holidays, suitable for all budgets: itineraries. Bear in mind that your first and
sailing in the Galapagos. Every island last nights are in Quito, so you’ll actually
offers its own unique landscapes and The standard level vessel, the ‘Daphne’ spend 3, 4 or 7 nights on board your
wildlife-spotting opportunities; and with (G3) is the most affordable option; whilst chosen cruise. Return flights between Quito
no known predators, the wildlife exhibits for an upgraded level of comfort and style, and the Galapagos, which take around 2
almost no fear of humans. This isolated you can work your way up the fleet. hours 30 minutes, are also included.
haven of biodiversity remains nature’s
greatest science laboratory, more than two The ‘San Jose’ (G5) offers lots of outdoor LIFE ON BOARD
centuries after Charles Darwin published and cabin space, while the ‘Monserrat’ (G7)
his earth-shattering theory of evolution. offers the best passenger-to-guide ratio. An expert naturalist guide (two guides on
the ‘Monserrat’ and ‘Evolution’) is employed
For the most comfortable options, choose on each boat and hosts nightly seminars to
the ‘Queen of Galapagos’ (G8) or the discuss the next day’s itinerary, show how
handsomely-appointed ‘Evolution’ (G10), to identify the local flora and fauna, and
which is the newest addition to the fleet. explain how to behave around the native
wildlife. You can get close, but it’s still
The maximum group size is 16, apart from important to note that the Galapagos is
on the ‘Monserrat’ and ‘Evolution’, which not a petting zoo! Much of the inter-island
carry 20 and 32 passengers respectively. sailing takes place at night to allow two
The small group philosophy ensures you get on-shore excursions each day, typically
the most out of the expertise of the fully- spending up to four hours at each landing
trained naturalist guide(s) on board. stop. Delicious meals on board comprise
seafood, beef, salads, soups and desserts,
MEET THE FLEET served with tea/coffee and purified water.

While other companies buy space on ANY OTHER COSTS
many different yachts of varying standards,
G Adventures charters and maintains its The Galapagos National Park Service
own vessels to ensure you receive a quality levies a fee of USD $100 per person,
experience from start to finish and so that payable in cash only, on arrival at
you sail with like-minded travellers. the airport in the Galapagos. This fee
is used to protect and preserve the
ITINERARIES islands for the enjoyment of future
generations. On board the boat,
In order to minimise the impact of tour you’ll find soft drinks, beer, wine and
boats on each island, and more importantly a basic selection of spirits can be
on the native wildlife, the Galapagos purchased from the bar, and your tab
National Park Service sets strict controls is settled on disembarkation. If you
over where each boat can sail, and how wish to tip your crew and guide, we’d
often. All boats operate on a two-week suggest something like USD $8-10 per
cycle so you can select which island passenger, per day.
grouping interests you most. You’d need

74 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

VOYAGE GALAPAGOS FR$2,199

Aboard the Daphne (G3)

the daphne (G3) - AT A GLANCE PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

Service Level: Standard SOUTHERN FR$2,199 NORTHERN & FR$2,449
ISLANDS CENTRAL ISLANDS
Capacity: 16 passengers 6 DAYS 7 DAYS

Cabins: 8 double cabins with private Highlights INCLUDE Highlights INCLUDE
bathrooms and air conditioning. All cabins
feature upper and lower berths and are • 3 nights cruising aboard the Daphne (G3) • 4 nights cruising aboard the Daphne (G3)
location on the upper or lower deck. • Snorkel with playful and inquisitive sea lions • Snorkel in the caldera of a collapsed volcano

Crew: 7 crew plus bilingual local naturalist and search for sea turtles whilst searching for marine life
guide certified by the Galapagos National • Come face-to-face with 100-year-old giant • Explore extraordinary frigatebird and booby
Park Authority.
tortoises colonies on Genovesa
Boat Layout: Two-level boat with a • Visit the impressive El Solpador blow hole on • Choose to relax on the white sand beaches of
wraparound deck, outdoor sundeck, bar
and seating area. Interior dining room Española Santiago
and lounge with TV/DVD player for daily • Learn the Islands’ biological history from your
briefings. GAEV06HB
qualified naturalist guide
Amenities: Snorkelling equipment included.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included GAEV07HB
each day with freshly-prepared Ecuadorian
and international cuisine.

Inclusions WESTERN FR$3,749 NORTHERN & FR$3,749
ISLANDS SOUTHERN ISLANDS
Accommodation: Hotels in Quito (2 nts), twin 10 DAYS 10 DAYS
share cabin (3, 4 or 7 nts) Transport: Plane,
yacht, van, Zodiac, public bus Meals: All meals
on board Budget: Allow USD $10 for a Tourist

Transit Card at Quito Airport, USD $100 (in

cash) for the Galapagos National Park entry

fee, USD $75-100 for meals not included, plus
an amount for drinks and tips Group Leader:

On board crew and naturalist guide, local rep
in Quito Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour
Code: As shown

Highlights INCLUDE Highlights INCLUDE

• 7 nights cruising aboard the Daphne (G3) • 7 nights cruising aboard the Daphne (G3)
• Hike the Sierra Negra volcano • Send a postcard home (or a letter in a bottle!)
• Explore coastal lagoons and black lava flows
from quirky Post Office Bay
while searching for unique bird life • Discover massive colonies of blue-footed
• Land on seldom-visited Fernandina, home to
boobies on Genovesa
some of the Galapagos’ most diverse wildlife • Explore the aquatic wonderland that lies
and vegetation
• Snorkel with sea lions and turtles beneath the gap in Kicker Rock - perhaps
snorkel with hammerhead sharks

GAEV10HA GAEV10HB

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 75

EXPLORE GALAPAGOS FR$2,499

Aboard the Monserrat (G7)

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA the monserrat (G7) - AT A GLANCE

Service Level: Upgraded CENTRAL & EAST FR$2,499 WESTERN & CENTRAL FR$2,949
ISLANDS ISLANDS
Capacity: 20 passengers 6 DAYS 7 DAYS

Cabins: 10 double cabins with private Highlights INCLUDE Highlights INCLUDE
bathrooms and air conditioning. Upper and
lower deck cabins are outside facing with • 3 nights cruising aboard the Monserrat (G7) • 4 nights cruising aboard the Monserrat (G7)
twin and double beds. • Discover spectacular marine life in secluded • Hike the Sierra Negra volcano, the largest

Crew: 7 crew plus cruise director and 2 bays and snorkel with sea lions basalt caldera in the Galapagos
bilingual local naturalist guides certified by • Find land iguanas feeding in the cactus forests • Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters
the Galapagos National Park Authority.
on South Plaza Island of the Pacific Ocean
Boat Layout: Spacious main deck, with bar • See if you can outstare a 100-year-old giant • Grab your binoculars to spot blue-footed
and dining room. Large forward sundeck
with lounge chairs. Observation deck with tortoise! boobies, frigatebirds and penguins
great sightlines. Large lounge area with
TV/ DVD player for daily briefings.

Amenities: Snorkelling equipment included.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included
each day with freshly-prepared Ecuadorian
and international cuisine.

GASEV06NA GASEV07NA

Inclusions CENTRAL, SOUTHERN & FR$4,099 WESTERN, CENTRAL FR$4,099
EAST ISLANDS 10 DAYS & EAST ISLANDS
Accommodation: Hotels in Quito (2 nts), twin 10 DAYS
share cabin (3, 4 or 7 nts) Transport: Plane,
yacht, van, Zodiac, public bus Meals: All meals
on board Budget: Allow USD $10 for a Tourist

Transit Card at Quito Airport, USD $100 (in

cash) for the Galapagos National Park entry

fee, USD $75-100 for meals not included, plus
an amount for drinks and tips Group Leader:

On board crew and cruise director, 2 naturalist
guides, local rep in Quito Group Size: Max 16,
Avg 12 Tour Code: As shown

Highlights INCLUDE Highlights INCLUDE

• 7 nights cruising aboard the Monserrat (G7) • 7 nights cruising aboard the Monserrat (G7)
• Hike over the volcanic flows for a dramatic • Look out for land iguanas sunning themselves

viewpoint on Bartolomé in perfect disguise on volcanic rocks
• Snorkel with sea turtles, sea lions and other • Hike the Sierra Negra volcano for fantastic

aquatic wildlife views over the island of Isabela
• Relax on the gorgeous beaches of Española • Swim and snorkel with a variety of marine life
• Learn the Galapagos’ fascinating human and
in secluded bays
geological stories from your expert guides • Enjoy outstanding local and international

GASEV10NB cuisine served on board

GASEV10NA

76 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

DISCOVER GALAPAGOS FR$2,949

Aboard the Queen of Galapagos (G8)

Queen of galapagos (g8) - AT A PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA
GLANCE
CENTRAL FR$2,949 SOUTHERN & EAST FR$3,349
Service Level: Upgraded ISLANDS ISLANDS
6 DAYS 7 DAYS
Capacity: 16 passengers
Highlights INCLUDE Highlights INCLUDE
Cabins: 7 luxury cabins with queen or twin
side-by-side beds (no bunks) all with • 3 nights cruising aboard the Queen of • 4 nights cruising aboard the Queen of
private bathrooms, air conditioning, TV/ Galapagos (G8) Galapagos (G8)
DVD players and large windows. 1 suite.
• Spend your days exploring the incredible • Explore the marine wonderland of Kicker Rock
Crew: 10 crew plus bilingual local wildlife with an expert naturalist guide off San Cristobal, one of the most famous
naturalist guide certified by the Galapagos sites in the Galapagos
National Park Authority. • Swim and snorkel with curious sea lions
• Search for land iguanas on South Plaza Island • Come face-to-face with 100-year-old giant
Boat Layout: Large aft porch with couches • Make use of the onboard wetsuits, snorkel tortoises
and lounge chairs. An elegant dining
room, lounge and bar for meals and daily equipment and beach towels • Learn the difference between a marine and
briefings and presentations. land iguana from your expert guide
GAEV06GA
Amenities: Snorkelling equipment, GAEV07GA
beach towels and wetsuits included.
Comprehensive breakfast, lunch and dinner
are included each day.

Inclusions CENTRAL, SOUTHERN FR$4,749 NORTHERN & CENTRAL FR$4,749
& EAST ISLANDS ISLANDS
Accommodation: Hotels in Quito (2 nts), twin 10 DAYS 10 DAYS
share luxury cabin (3, 4 or 7 nts) Transport:
Plane, yacht, van, Zodiac, public bus Meals: All
meals on board Budget: Allow USD $10 for a
Tourist Transit Card at Quito Airport, USD $100

(in cash) for the Galapagos National Park entry

fee, USD $75-100 for meals not included, plus
an amount for drinks and tips Group Leader:
On board crew and naturalist guide, local rep in
Quito Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code:
As shown

Highlights INCLUDE Highlights INCLUDE

• 7 nights cruising aboard the Queen of • 7 nights cruising aboard the Queen of
Galapagos (G8) Galapagos (G8)

• Multiple opportunities to swim and snorkel • Spot colonies of frigatebirds and boobies on
with sea turtles, sea lions and a myriad of the cliffs of Genovesa
tropical fish
• Enjoy three delicious meals served daily with
• Keep your binoculars handy to spot blue- Ecuadorian and international cuisine
footed boobies, penguin and frigatebirds
• Gain a deeper insight from your Galapagos
• Listen to onboard naturalist presentations to National Park onboard guide into the
really bring the islands to life archipelago’s ecology

GAEV10GA GAEV10GB

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 77

LAND GALÁPAGOS GALÁPAGOS ON A FR$2,349
MULTI-ACTIVITES FR$2,999 SHOESTRING
9 DAYS
Quito Quito 10 DAYS Quito Quito

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights Highlights

• Cruise between the islands of the Galápagos, staying on shore • See wildlife like the remarkable Giant Galápagos Land Tortoise
• Snorkel and swim with marine life such as turtles and manta rays • Get out on the water with optional kayaking, snorkeling or surfing
• See endangered species at the Charles Darwin Research Station • Camp out at a sustainable farm in the highlands of Santa Cruz

DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY

01-03 Quito / San Cristóbal Island 01 Quito
04-05 Arrive and head out to enjoy the capital’s vibrant nightlife. On Day 02-03 Arrive into Quito at any time, meet your group and discover the city’s
06-07 2, fly to San Cristóbal Island where you’ll head off on a downhill bike 04 rich history in the colonial district.
08-10 excursion and visit Mann Beach to see the sea lions and frigate birds. San Cristóbal
On Day 3, it’s time for a snorkelling trip at Kicker Rock to seek out 05-07 Fly to San Cristóbal Island where you’ll get a first feel for what
sea turtles, manta rays and sharks. Later, visit the Interpretation life is like for the lucky inhabitants of the Galápagos. Visit the
Centre to learn about the natural history of the area. (2B, 2L) 08-09 Interpretation Centre and hike to ‘Las Tijeretas’ for some fantastic
Floreana Island / Isabela Island birdwatching. Spend your free time on the beaches and swimming.
You’ll travel by boat to Floreana Island with opportunities for Santa Cruz
swimming and snorkelling and a free afternoon in Puerto Velasco Take a speedboat ride to Santa Cruz and the largest town on
Ibarra. On Day 5, you’ll take a morning excursion to the highlands of the Galápagos Islands, Puerto Ayora. Get a glimpse of the giant
Floreana before continuing by boat to Isabela Island for a visit to the Galápagos land tortoise in the wild and spend the night camping in
Wall of Tears and a nearby lookout point. (2B, 2L, D) the highlands at a sustainable living farm area. (L, D)
Isabela Island / Santa Cruz Isabela Island / Santa Cruz
Enjoy a full-day tour to Sierra Negra Volcano to see the world’s Head out by speedboat to the most volcanically active island, Isabela.
second-largest crater, stopping to visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding You’ll visit the impressive and moving Wall of Tears, costructed by
Centre on the way back to town. On Day 7 an excursion will take convicts. On a free day, there are optional tours to Sierra Negra
you to ‘Las Tintoreras’, otherwise known as ‘Shark Alley’ to observe Volcano or, if you want to get active, there are surf lessons to be had
whitetip reef sharks and a variety of bird life. You’ll travel by boat on nearby beaches or snorkelling and kayak trips. Return to Santa
in the afternoon to Santa Cruz Island and have a free evening to Cruz to visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre and for free time to
explore the town of Puerto Ayora or go shopping. (2B, 2L) walk to idyllic Tortuga Bay in the afternoon. As you stroll along the
Santa Cruz / Quito beach, don’t be surprised if the ‘rocks’ turn out to be land iguanas!
You’ll visit the highlands of Santa Cruz to see the Galápagos Giant Santa Cruz / Quito
Tortoise’s natural habitat and the lava tunnels. Afterwards, walk to On Day 8 you’ll transfer across the island to Baltra. From here you’ll
Tortuga Bay for a kayak excursion into the mangroves. On Day 9, at bid the Galápagos Islands farewell and fly back to Quito. After a night
the Charles Darwin Research station, you’ll observe various species out with your group it’s time to say ‘adios amigos’ and start planning
close to extinction before transferring across the island to Baltra for your next adventure. How are you going to top this one, though?
a flight back to Quito. Depart at any time on Day 10. (3B, L)

Departures 2014 Quito Departures 2014 Quito

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Baltra San Cristóbal Is START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Baltra San Cristóbal Is
ECUADOR Isabela Santa Cruz E C U A D O R
Jan 11 Jan 20 May 03 May 12 Sep 06 Sep 15 Jan 10 Jan 18 May 02 May 10 Sep 12 Sep 20
Jan 25 Feb 03 May 17 May 26 Sep 20 Sep 29 Santa Cruz Jan 31 Feb 08 May 25 Jun 02 Oct 06 Oct 14
Feb 08 Feb 17 May 31 Jun 09 Oct 04 Oct 13 Isabela Floreana Feb 21 Mar 01 Jun 20 Jun 28 Oct 24 Nov 01
Feb 22 Mar 03 Jun 14 Jun 23 Oct 18 Oct 27 Mar 14 Mar 22 Jul 11 Jul 19 Nov 14 Nov 22
Mar 08 Mar 17 Jun 28 Jul 07 Nov 01 Nov 10 Apr 04 Apr 12 Aug 01 Aug 09 Dec 05 Dec 13
Mar 13 Mar 22 Jul 05 Jul 14 Nov 15 Nov 24 Apr 18 Apr 26 Aug 15 Aug 23 Dec 26 Jan 03
Mar 15 Mar 24 Jul 12 Jul 21 Nov 29 Dec 08
Mar 22 Mar 31 Jul 26 Aug 04 Dec 13 Dec 22
Apr 05 Apr 14 Aug 09 Aug 18 Dec 27 Jan 05
Apr 19 Apr 28 Aug 23 Sep 01

Inclusions GALAPAGOS Inclusions GALAPAGOS
ISLANDS
ISLANDS
Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age
Accommodation: Hotels (9 nts) Transport: Plane, speedboat, van, pick-up truck, Trip Style: YOLO Service Level: Basic Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Recommended
for 18-39s Accommodation: Simple hotels (7 nts, some multishare), camping (1 nt)
public buses, Zodiacs Meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 1 dinner Budget: Allow USD Transport: Plane, speedboat, van, pick-up truck, public buses, Zodiacs Meals: 1 lunch,
$100-150 for meals not included, USD $10 for a Tourist Transit Card at Quito 1 dinner Budget: Allow USD $255-340 for meals not included, USD $10 for a Tourist
Airport, USD $100 (cash only) for a Galápagos National Park entry fee, plus USD Transit Card at Quito Airport, USD $100 (cash only) for a Galápagos National Park entry
$5 for the Isabela Municipal Tax Group Leader: Certified naturalist guide in the fee, plus USD $5 for the Isabela Municipal Tax Group Leader: Certified naturalist guide
Galápagos, local rep in Quito Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10 Tour Code: GASEGL in the Galápagos, local rep in Quito Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GASEGS

78 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

ECUADOR & GALÁPAGOS ISLAND HOPPER FR$2,965

Quito Guayaquil 11 DAYS

Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Cross the Equator Line near Quito
• Take a dip in a relaxing thermal spring
• Go local at a salsa lesson in Baños
• Enjoy an Ecuadorian barbecue feast
• See tortoises in their natural habitat
• Snorkel in underground lava tubes
• Chill out on Puerto Grande’s beach
• Get up close to Galápagos’ wildlife

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH

Jan 23 Feb 02 Apr 28 May 08 Jul 21 Jul 31
Mar 03 Mar 13 May 26 Jun 05 Aug 18 Aug 28
Mar 31 Apr 10 Jun 23 Jul 03 Sep 15 Sep 25

Additional dates are available, please ask for details.

Inclusions The barely-touched archipelago of the Galápagos Islands, nestled off the Ecuadorian coast
has fascinated visitors since their most famous guest, Charles Darwin, landed there in 1835.
Service Level: Superior Age Group: Exclusively An island-hopping holiday, where you stay on land rather than on a cruise boat, gets you
18-35s Accommodation: Hotels (10 nts, twin closer to the locals and in tune with the rhythm of daily life. The rugged volcanic landscapes
share) Transport: Private air-con coach, mini- of the Galápagos, when combined with the best of mainland Ecuador, gives you the chance
coach or van, plane Meals: 10 breakfasts, 2 not only to see out-of-this-world wildlife but to tick off two World Heritage Sites, salsa the
lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $100 night away with locals and hike the world’s largest active crater - the list is endless!

(cash only) for a Galápagos National Park DAY ITINERARY

entry fee, USD $10 INGALA fee and USD $5
for the Isabela Island Tax Group Leader:

Tour Manager & English-speaking local guide
Group Size: Max 30 Tour Code: COQOGY

GALAPAGOS COLOMBIA 01 Quito
ISLANDS 02-03 Welcome to Quito, the beautiful capital of Ecuador. Meet your group and meander Quito’s sites with
Quito 04-05 your expert guide who will teach you all about this city and the history of the Inca and the Spanish
PSuaenrttaoCAryuozr/a 06-07 invasion, then enjoy the best views from Panecillo. Later, visit the Equator line and wander between
Baltra Tena 08-09 two hemispheres! Tonight, get to know your travel companions over a sociable dinner. (D)
10-11 Quito / Tena / Baños
VPiullearmtoil Guayaquil Baños Head out of the city and into the lush jungle with spectacular views en route to Tena, an attractive
city in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. Enjoy a dip into thermal springs and visit a hummingbird
ECUADOR sanctuary. With two broad rivers intersecting at the city’s heart, there are loads of rafting and
kayaking options here. Alternatively, you can visit an indigenous community before it’s back on the
PuertoSaBnaqCuriesrtiozboaMl/oreno PERU road. You’ll see Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest mountain, on your way to Baños, a small town nestled
snugly under the still-active Tungurahua Volcano. (2B, D)
You might like Fr $6,845 Baños / Guayaquil
You have a totally free day to explore as you see fit! This small town is situated in a valley of
Extend Your Trip waterfalls and hot springs, blessed with great weather and outdoor activities galore. Get out there
Galápagos & Andes and visit the hot springs, go horseback riding, abseiling, rafting, ziplining or mountain biking. Tonight,
(26 days, Quito to Lima) go native and learn to dance salsa at the included lesson. On Day 5, it’s on to the economic hub and
(COQOLI/COQOLIT) largest city of Ecuador, Guayaquil. Discover this cosmopolitan city, which is starting to challenge
Quito as Ecuador’s new cultural hotspot. A walk down the promenade with the city’s colourful Cerro
Santa Ana district as your backdrop is a must! Tonight, enjoy drinks on an evening river cruise. (2B)
Guayaquil / Isabela Island
Catch a flight to Baltra in the Galápagos Islands. Cross over the waterway onto the main island of
Santa Cruz, to check out the old lava tunnels and see the incredible giant tortoises in their natural
habitat. Not something you’d come across on a normal day! Later on you’ll take a boat ride to Isabela
Island, a nature haven that’s home to land and sea life that will astound and amaze you. Start Day 7
off with a walk to the Wall of Tears to learn about the island’s fascinating human history. On return
watch out for colourful fish on your snorkelling experience in the underground lava tubes. In the
afternoon, enjoy an included kayak adventure excursion to visit some marine iguanas and maybe even
spot some of the elusive Galápagos penguins. (2B, L, D)
Isabela Island / Santa Cruz Island / San Cristobal Island
Start the day with a visit to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre before heading over to Santa Cruz
Island. It’s all about relaxation here as you visit the supremely beautiful Tortuga Bay for an indulgent
stroll along the beach and a swim. On Day 9, you’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where
you can uncover some of the Galápagos’ interesting history and learn about different species of
tortoises and land iguanas. Later, you’ll head to San Cristobal Island, where you’re bound to spot a
bathing sea lion or two! Tonight, you can head out with the group to a lovely local spot where you
can enjoy some drinks whilst watching the sun go down. (2B)
San Cristobal Island / Guayaquil
Embark on a coastal cruise for some native bird spotting and then hit the water in search of puffer
fish and cute sea lion pups. You’ll snorkel around Kicker Rock looking out for manta rays, starfish and
maybe the Galápagos shark before relaxing on the stunning Puerto Grande beach. Later on, head back
into town and indulge into the Galápagos barbecue feast. Next morning, take in the beauty of the
island on a bike tour before flying back to Guayaquil on the mainland where your amazing adventure
wraps up on arrival. (2B, L, D)

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 79

THE ECUADOR EXPERIENCE FR$1,399

Quito Quito 18 DAYS

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights

• Experience a homestay in the Amazon
• Consult with a local shaman
• Soak in the hot springs of Baños
• Ride by train to the Devil’s Nose
• Chill out on Ecuador’s Pacific beaches
• Hike to a volcano or go river rafting
• Spend time with indigenous people
• Roam the amazing market of Otavalo

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH

Jan 09 Jan 26 Jun 12 Jun 29 Nov 06 Nov 23
Feb 13 Mar 02 Jul 17 Aug 03 Dec 04 Dec 21
Mar 13 Mar 30 Aug 07 Aug 24 Dec 18 Jan 04
Apr 17 May 04 Sep 11 Sep 28
May 15 Jun 01 Oct 09 Oct 26

Inclusions Ecuador is perhaps best known for the Galápagos Islands, but the mainland has a whole
range of other environments and experiences on offer and this tour is the perfect way to
Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Basic see them. You’ll dive straight into the Amazon jungle where you’ll get to meet a local shaman
Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age and come out ready for a dip in the hot springs of Baños. A railway engineering feat will
Accommodation: Simple hotels (12 nts), take you to the Devil’s Nose, and you’ll travel from the Avenue of the Volcanoes to relaxing
Amazon community stay (2 nts), overnight Pacific coast beaches before visiting an indigenous community and stocking up on souvenirs
bus (1 nt), indigenous community homestay at the markets in Otavalo. Now, what were those islands called again?
(2 nts, possibly multishare) Transport: Public
bus, truck, motorised canoe, train Meals: DAY ITINERARY
4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget:
Allow USD $305-400 for meals not included 01-02 Quito / Tena
Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Arrive in Quito any time and head out to explore before meeting your group in the evening. On Day
throughout, local guides Group Size: Max 16, 03-04 2, travel by bus along winding roads to Tena, in the tropical rainforest of the Amazon Basin. Here,
Avg 10 Tour Code: GAREE optional activities include visiting an animal rescue centre, caving and whitewater rafting.
05-06 Amazon Jungle
My Own Room Available: Fr $249 07 Spend two nights at a jungle homestay with an indigenous community where you can experience
08 local traditions. Take guided hikes through the rainforest to search for wildlife and hear all about
San Clemente the natural environment. The biodiversity of this region beggars belief; mammals include armadillos,
Otavalo 09-12 honey bears, sloth, bats, jaguar and monkeys, while overhead fly up to 1,000 species of chirpy
13 tropical birds. Visit a local shaman and learn about Quichua history and culture. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Quito Tena 14-15 Baños
16-17 Journey by bus to the popular resort of Baños, nestled in the hills of the Andes and renowned for
Machalilla NP Baños 18 its thermal springs and hot pools. Arise early to watch the dawn creep over the mountains as you lie
Riobamba back in the relaxing waters. Activity options around Baños include hiking, horse riding and biking.
Alausí
Guayaquil Alausí Travel by bus to Alausí where you will have free time to explore the town, which offers glimpses of
three of the highest peaks in the Andes - Chimborazo, Carihuairazo and Tunguragua.
ECUADOR Devil’s Nose / Guayaquil
This morning, board the train for an included excursion to the Devil’s Nose. The construction of this
You might like railway was an engineering feat as part of the line descends 1,000m down a steep, rocky slope on a
series of switchbacks. Travel by bus to Ecuador’s largest city, Guayaquil. Explore the city checking out
Add on the Galápagos Islands Bolivar Park and the Old South Market before an optional nighttime cruise on the Guayas River.
Check out pages 73-77 for our sailing trips Puerto Lopez & Machalilla National Park
and pages 78, 79 and 82 for our exciting Continue along the coast by bus to the beach town of Puerto Lopez. Relax in a beachfront hammock
range of land-based tours of the Galápagos or explore the area. Visit a local community reforestation project, head to Isla de la Plata to see
the nesting blue-footed boobies, hike in Machalilla National Park or go diving, snorkelling or whale
TWITTER.COM/STATRAVELUS watching (seasonal). On Day 12, you’ll return to Quito by overnight bus.
Quito
Today is a free day in Quito. Take an optional city tour, ride in the cable car up the nearby volcano or
simply relax in one of the city’s many cafés and restaurants.
San Clemente
Travel by bus to the indigenous community of San Clemente. Take hikes to learn about the medicinal
plants or trek up the Imbabura Mountain. It’s a great chance to interact with the locals and learn
about their traditional ways of life. There’s an optional cultural evening and dinner show. (B, 2L, 2D)
Otavalo / Quito
Hop on a public bus to the market town of Otavalo. Here you can visit Peguche waterfall, Cotacachi
leather market or hike around Cuicocha Lake. Explore the enormous Otavalo handicraft market which
is filled with items made by local artisans. Return to Quito by bus for one last overnight stay. (B)
Quito
This mainland adventure in Ecuador comes to an end at any time today, but you may wish to head
over to the Galápagos Islands to add on one of our sailing adventures?

80 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

ECUADOR INLAND FR$1,649
QUEST FR$999 & AMAZON
16 DAYS
Quito Quito 8 DAYS Quito Quito

Highlights Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Soak up the rich culture within the old and new cities of Quito • Live like a local with a Quichua family in a traditional homestay
• Bathe in the thermal springs at Baños surrounded by mountains • Bathe in one of the thermal springs that flow from a volcano
• Feel like a local at an authentic jungle homestay in the Amazon • Browse the handicraft markets for exquisite leather gifts in Otavalo

DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY

01 Quito 01-02 Quito / Papallacta Hot Springs
Arrive into Quito, the Ecuadorian capital. Explore historial buildings 03-04 Arrive in the Ecuadorian capital of Quito at any time. The next day
02-03 and churches in the old town and travel by trolley (streetcar) to the 05-06 head to Papallacta Hot Springs, to bathe in one of the best mineral
New Town. Visit Quito’s famous landmark, a rounded hill offering springs in Ecuador and to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. (B)
04-05 panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanos. 07-10 Amazon Homestay
06-07 Baños 11-13 Leave the mountains behind and enter the lush tropical Amazon
08 Travel to unspoilt Baños, directly translated as ‘baths’, and what 14-16 rainforest. Stay with a Quichua family near the community of Cando
the town is famous for. Known for its gorgeous thermal springs and learn their traditional beliefs and customs as well as their many
that come from the base of Tungurahua Volcano; this is the perfect practical uses for the jungle’s wealth of natural products. (2B, 2L, 2D)
place to indulge in a soak in the hot springs whilst admiring the Jungle Lodge
stunning mountain backdrop. Locals swear these baths are good Travel to a jungle lodge on the Napo River; one of the Amazon’s two
for your health! If you’re eager to get active and explore, choose major tributaries. Take a wander and paddle along on a canoe to
optional horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking and climbing in the learn about the area’s natural history. Opt to brave thundering rapids
mountains, or hop on a raft for a trip down the River Patate. (B) of an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip on the Napo. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Amazon Homestay Baños / Cuenca
Hop on a bus to the Amazon Jungle region. Keep your eyes peeled as Return to the mountains to Baños or ‘baths’ and the thermal springs
the beautiful landscapes and climate alter significantly as you leave that flow from the base of Tungurahua Volcano. As a perfect setting
the mountains for the exotic tropical rainforest. Spend two nights for outdoor activities, try horseback riding or hiking whilst you’re
experiencing local life with a Quichua family. (2B, 2L, 2D) here. On Day 9 head to Cuenca, considered the most beautiful city in
Otavalo / Quito Ecuador with its cobbled streets and shady plazas. (B)
Otavalo, famous for its friendly people and market, is the perfect Cuenca / Quito / Cayambe
place to browse and search for exquisite handmade goods, from Fly back to Quito before heading to the village of Cayambe the next
colourful woollen goods to fine leatherware. If you’re looking to soak day. Stay in a 400-year-old hacienda nestled at the base of Cayambe
up some culture, head to the pre-dawn local animal market. Back to Volcano and opt to hike to the volcano’s glacier.
Quito on Day 7 and hit the town in a Salsoteca for your last night! Otavalo / Quito
Quito hVaisnidtitchraefbtseamuatrifkuelttfoowrnhiodfdOentagveamlost. oYoburor wtosueritesndwsoroClndOLDfOaaMmyBoI1Au6s.
With a camera full of photos, bid farewell and depart at any time. (B)

COLOMBIA

Departures 2014 Otavalo Departures 2014 Otavalo

Cayambe

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Quito START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Quito Papallacta

Jan 12 Jan 19 Jun 01 Jun 08 Oct 19 Oct 26 Baños Tena/Amazon Jan 07 Jan 22 Apr 15 Apr 30 Sep 16 Oct 01 Tena/Amazon
Feb 09 Feb 16 Jun 29 Jul 06 Nov 16 Nov 23 Jan 21 Feb 05 May 13 May 28 Oct 28 Nov 12 Baños
Mar 09 Mar 16 Jul 27 Aug 03 Dec 14 Dec 21 Feb 08 Feb 23 Jun 10 Jun 25 Nov 11 Nov 26
Apr 06 Apr 13 Aug 24 Aug 31 Feb 18 Mar 05 Jul 08 Jul 23 Nov 25 Dec 10
May 04 May 11 Sep 21 Sep 28 Mar 04 Mar 19 Jul 22 Aug 06 Dec 06 Dec 21
Mar 18 Apr 02 Aug 05 Aug 20 Dec 20 Jan 04
Apr 05 Apr 20 Sep 02 Sep 17

ECUADOR Cuenca

Inclusions My Own Room Available: Fr P$E2RU99 Inclusions My Own RoomECUAAvDaORilable: Fr $P8ER9U9

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age
Accommodation: Hotels (5 nts), cabañas (2 nts, multi-share) Transport: Private van, Accommodation: Hotel (9 nts), lodge (2 nts), cabañas (2 nts, multishare), hacienda
public bus Meals: 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Budget: Allow USD $200-250 (2 nts) Transport: Bus, plane, taxi, motorised canoe, 4x4, truck Meals: 6 breakfasts,
for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow USD $240-315 for meals not included Group
Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour Code: GASEEQ Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour
Code: GAEIA

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 81

HIGHLIGHTS OF ECUADOR FR$3,849

Quito Quito 20 DAYS

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Highlights

• Explore the jungle by canoe
• Soak in the hot springs in Papallacta
• Stay with a local Quichua family
• Browse for handmade gifts in Otavalo
• Stay in a 400-year-old hacienda
• Sail around the Galápagos Islands
• Encounter unique and curious wildlife
• Snorkel in crystal-clear Pacific waters

Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH

Jan 07 Jan 26 May 13 Jun 01 Sep 02 Sep 21
Feb 18 Mar 09 Jun 10 Jun 29 Sep 16 Oct 05
Mar 04 Mar 23 Jul 08 Jul 27 Oct 28 Nov 16
Mar 18 Apr 06 Jul 22 Aug 10 Nov 11 Nov 30
Apr 15 May 04 Aug 05 Aug 24

Inclusions Get to know Ecuador inside out in this ultimate adventure! Explore the Amazon jungle by
canoe, hike through tropical rainforest and stay with a local Quichua family to experience
Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard their lifestyle first-hand. Browse quaint colonial towns, scour indigenous handicraft markets
Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age and hike up volcanoes then fly over to the Galápagos Islands to spend three nights exploring
Accommodation: Hotels (10 nts), jungle lodge these exquisite islands by yacht; swimming, snorkelling and admiring the famous Galápagos
(2 nts), cabañas (2 nts, multishare), hacienda land tortoises along the way! With stunning mountains, lush cloud forest, crystal-clear
(2 nts), motorised yacht (3 nts) Transport: waters and striking volcanoes, this is the perfect way to explore Ecuador.
Public bus, plane, motorised canoe, yacht,
Zodiac, pickup truck Meals: 9 breakfasts, 7 DAY ITINERARY
lunches, 7 dinners Budget: Allow USD $285-
375 for meals not included; USD $10 for a 01-02 Quito / Papallacta Hot Springs
Tourist Transit Card at Quito Airport; USD 03-04 Arrive into Quito at any time and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Explore the old and new cities
$100 (cash only) for a Galápagos National 05-06 of this Ecuadorian capital, and take in the panoramic views from El Panecillo. On Day 2, head to the
Park entry fee Group Leader: Chief Experience 07-08 Papallacta hot springs where you can chill out with a glass of wine in the mineral hot springs. (B)
Officer (CEO) on Days 1-15, local naturalist 09-11 Amazon Homestay
guides in the Galápagos, local representative 12-13 It’s off to the Amazon jungle, passing mountains and tropical rainforest along the way. Spend two
in Quito Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12 Tour 14-15 nights with a local Quichua family in order to experience the jungle lifestyle first-hand. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Code: GAEF06HB Jungle Lodge
16-18 Head to your jungle lodge along the Napo River today. Take a stroll, then paddle along in a canoe
My Own Room Available: Fr $899 and learn about the natural history of this area. If you’re after an adrenalin rush, why not take to the
19-20 tumbling rapids in an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip. (2B, 2L, 2D)
Galapagos Tena/Amazon Baños
Islands Papallacta Return to the unspoiled town of Baños where you can relax in the thermal springs at the base of the
Cayambe Tungurahua Volcano. A perfect setting to explore the outdoors, why not get active and spend your
day exploring this green mountain town either by horseback, hiking or mountain biking?
Otavalo Cuenca / Quito
ECUADOR Head to the colonial town of Cuenca taking in the spectacular views along the way. Wander around
its cobbled streets and take a trip to one of its art galleries or museums in order to learn about its
Quito eventful past. If you fancy hiking, head to the Cajas National Park for crystal clear lakes and beautiful
scenery or take a trip to discover the nearby Inca ruins. Fly to Quito in the evening of Day 11.
Banõs Cayambe
Your next stop is the village of Cayambe where you’ll stay in a 400-year-old hacienda nestled at the
Cuenca base of the Cayambe Volcano. Explore the beautiful area surrounding the hacienda, swim in its indoor
pool or if you’re feeling energetic, travel to the base of the volcano’s glacier and hike back down.
Otavalo / Quito
Travel to the beautiful area of Otavalo where you’ll have the chance to browse for souvenirs and
handmade gems in its world-famous handicrafts market. Return to Quito in the evening of Day 15.
Galápagos Islands
Fly to Baltra in the Galápagos Islands and transfer to meet your boat for a three-night cruise around
this stunning, unspoilt and utterly unique archipelago. You’ll visit several islands to enjoy the volcanic
scenery and to view the abundant wildlife, which is not at all afraid of humans (due to the lack of
natural predators). You will have daily opportunities for swimming and snorkelling to see marine life
such as sea lions, sea turtles and possibly even sharks, plus every day there will be shore excursions
with a qualified naturalist guide to learn about the Islands’ natural history and wildlife. You will also
have the chance to visit the remarkable Charles Darwin Research Centre to see the famous giant
Galápagos land tortoises which can live for up to 200 years! (3B, 3L, 3D)
Quito
Disembark the boat in the morning and transfer across the island of Santa Cruz to the island of
Baltra in time for your flight back to Quito. Stop by a peña for some tasty local cuisine and dance the
night away on your last night with the group. Your tour ends at any time on Day 20. (B)

82 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

ECUADOR ECUADOR AMAZON, FR$1,999
MULTI-SPORT FR$899 HOT SPRINGS & VOLCANOES
9 DAYS
Quito Quito 9 DAYS Quito Quito

Highlights Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Navigate the wild rapids as you head out whitewater rafting • Explore the Amazon jungle with an expert naturalist guide
• Trek through lush cloud forest to the active Tunguragua Volcano • Pamper yourself in the beautiful Papallacta hot springs
• Whizz down the Cotopaxi volcano on a mountain bike • Browse the handicraft markets in Otavalo for souvenirs

DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY

01 Quito 01 Quito
02-03 Roll into Quito at any time and make the most of this vibrant town. 02-03 Arrive in Quito and take the included transfer to your comfortable
04 Explore its old and new cities and head to the major Quito landmark and centrally-located hotel. Get out and about to see the landmarks.
of El Panecillo or ‘the little bread loaf’, for panoramic city views. 04 Amazon Lodge
05-06 Tena 05 Fly to Coca then travel into the tropical rainforest by motorized
07 Jump on board a bus to the jungle town of Tena and admire the 06-07 canoe to the luxurious La Selva Lodge. Meet your local guide then
08-09 towering green mountains and waterfalls along the way. On Day 3, 08-09 head out into the Amazon jungle. Why not rent a canoe, climb the
navigate the wild rapids and tumbling waters of the Jatunyaku River canopy tower or go wildlife spotting? This evening, sip on a cocktail
on an included full day whitewater rafting expedition. (B, L) and chill in the hammock of your own stylish cabaña. (2B, L, 2D)
Baños Papallacta Hot Springs
Today you’re off to the unspoiled mountain town of Baños or ‘Baths’. Board your plane to Quito, before being whisked off to the Papallacta
Spend the afternoon chilling in the warm thermal springs at the base Hot Springs resort. Bathe in the mineral hot springs, treat yourself
of the Tungurahua Volcano or opt to get active and explore. to an optional spa treatment or grab your walking boots for a hike
Llangantes National Park / Baños around the lush cloud forest for breathtaking mountain views. (B)
Get up and ready for your trek through the Llangantes National Park. Otavalo
Hike through lush cloud forest taking in the spectacular views along Plunge into the hot springs one last time before jumping on board
the way before arriving at your campsite where you’ll spend a night your transfer to San Clemente. Enjoy lunch with the local people of
under the stars. Keep your camera ready for more lush views on Day this traditional Andean community before travelling on to Otavalo
6 before you’re whisked off back to Baños. (B, L, D) where you’ll spend the night in a historic hacienda. (B, L)
Baños / Lasso Baños
Treat yourself and any sore muscles to a soak in the gorgeous local Browse the world-famous handicrafts market for souvenirs this
hot springs of Baños on your free morning before you head to Lasso. morning before continuing on to Baños. Relax in the beautiful hot
Cotopaxi / Quito springs or head out horseback riding, hiking or mountain biking. (2B)
Get ready for an adrenalin rush as you cycle down the Cotopaxi Quito
Volcano, starting your descent at 4,000 metres above sea level. Today, browse a small leather-making town for unique handmade
Catch your breath at the bottom as you tuck into a picnic lunch then crafts and clothes. This evening, stop by a vibrant peña for local
head to Quito for a final night out. Your trip ends on Day 9. (B, L) cuisine then head for a boogie in a salsoteca. Depart on Day 9. (2B)

Departures 2014 COLOMBIA Departures 2014

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH ECUADOR START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH COLOMBIA

Jan 25 Feb 02 Jun 07 Jun 15 Oct 04 Oct 12 Quito Jan 31 Feb 08 May 23 May 31 Sep 12 Sep 20 Otavalo
Feb 22 Mar 02 Jun 21 Jun 29 Nov 01 Nov 09 Feb 28 Mar 08 Jun 20 Jun 28 Oct 10 Oct 18
Mar 22 Mar 30 Jul 12 Jul 20 Nov 26 Dec 04 Tena Mar 23 Apr 05 Jul 18 Jul 26 Nov 07 Nov 15 Quito
Apr 19 Apr 27 Aug 09 Aug 17 Dec 27 Jan 04 Cotopaxi Apr 25 May 03 Aug 15 Aug 23 Dec 05 Dec 13
May 17 May 25 Sep 06 Sep 14
Baños Sangay N.P. Coca/Amazon
Inclusions Jungle

Trip Style: Comfort Service Level: Upgraded Papallacta
Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age
Inclusions My Own Room Available: Fr $P3ER6U9 Accommodation: Comfort hotels (4 nts), Baños PERU
hacienda (1 nt), jungle lodge (2 nts), resort (1 ECUADOR
nt) Transport: Private van, boat, plane Meals:
Trip Style: Active Service Level: Standard Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Budget:
Accommodation: Hotel (7 nts), Camping (1 nt) Transport: Public bus, private van, Allow USD $200-275 for meals not included
hiking, biking, rafting Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner Budget: Allow USD Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO)
$245-275 for meals not included Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour
guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GASEEM Code: GASEAV

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 83

QUITO

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA Shoestring rock solid rock solid

JHOMANA FR$19 DORM HOTEL $89FR SINGLE HOTEL FR$138 SINGLE
GUESTHOUSE $26FR TWIN/DOUBLE EUGENIA $48FR TWIN/DOUBLE QUITO $79FR TWIN/DOUBLE

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT INCLUDING BREAKFAST

Located in an old colonial house in Quito’s In the heart of the main cultural area, this This hotel’s gorgeous Art Deco building
popular Mariscal area, Jhomana boasts a boutique, family-run hotel captures Quito’s is perched on a hill, giving unbeatable
large sun terrace and patio as well as an spirit. Enjoy the unique charms of the bar 360-degree city and mountain views. Stroll
onsite restaurant serving tasty treats. Cosy and try the traditional café. The spacious through the sprawling gardens decked with
up with a DVD in the TV lounge, complete en suite rooms have a graceful tone and native flora, hit the pool or gym, rejuvenate
with fireplace. Its spacious, clean rooms offer cable TV and minibar. There’s also in the sauna or place your bets at the
come with en suites and Wi-Fi, plus there’s free Internet, a safety box and laundry casino. The charming en suite rooms have
a complimentary daily brekkie included. services. plush furnishings, Wi-Fi and cable TV.

UIOSHO UIOEUG UIOQUI

CUYABENO FR$885
LODGE
4 DAYS
Quito Quito

Inclusions Highlights

Departs: Daily Accommodation: Rustic lodge (3 nts) • Spot nocturnal wildlife on a guided night walk
Meals: 3 breakfast, 4 lunches, 3 dinners Transport: • Learn about medicinal plants and try piranha fishing
Includes return flights between Quito & Lago Agrio plus • Swim in a lagoon and canoe down river at sunset
transfers Tour Guide: English-speaking naturalist guide,
native guide Tour Code: UIOCUY No trip to Ecuador is complete without a taste of jungle life and this trip puts you right
in the heart and soul of the Amazon! Flying from Quito, you’ll transfer by bus and canoe
to the Cuyabeno Lodge. This rustic eco-lodge powered by solar panels has a dining area
and hammocks on the decking. After settling in, enjoy a night walk with an expert guide
to observe the nocturnal wildlife. Learn about medicinal plants the following day before
getting your teeth into piranha fishing! You’ll spend a day in Cuyabeno reserve where
you can walk in the rainforest at the shore of the lagoon, swim in the Aguas Negras,
and by night, canoe down the river to try your luck at spotting some more rainforest
wildlife such as caimens, monkeys and crocs. After an early breakfast on Day 4, journey
upstream on the Cuyabeno River before it’s time to fly back to Quito.

84 VISIT WWW.STATRAVEL.COM.AU

CASA DEL FR$284 COTOPAXI FR$446 PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA
SUIZO LODGE TREK
3 DAYS 3 DAYS
Quito Quito Quito Quito

Highlights Highlights

• Learn about the culture and traditions of a Quichua Village • View the picture perfect cone of Cotopaxi Volcano
• Discover how to use a blowgun and build a canoe • Hike in Cotopaxi National Park to crater lakes and Inca ruins
• Refresh in the pool and enjoy views from your terrace • Enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped volcanoes

The beautiful La Casa del Suizo is an Amazonian Lodge at the Cotopaxi Volcano rises majestically above the Andean Cordilleras
shores of the great Rio Napo. Every room has electricity, hot water, and is one of the most active volcanoes in Ecuador. With an
a ceiling fan and terrace. Experience excursions into the rainforest almost perfect cone shape, it’s known as a postcard-perfect
accompanied by a native guide with indepth knowledge of the flora volcano. On arrival in Quito, transfer to your hotel. In the morning,
and fauna. Visiting a family in the small Quichua Village of Ahuano pass through the ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’ enroute to Cotopaxi
is a real highlight. You’ll learn about their traditions and culture as National Park, stopping at Limpiopungo lagoon and the Inca ruins
well as how to make the traditional drink, Chicha. Take part in a of ‘El Salitre’. Afterwards, drive up the slopes of Cotopaxi and
blowgun target-shooting contest and build a canoe which can be walk to a refuge at 4,800 metres-tall for a spectacular view of
used to navigate down river to the lodge. Back at the lodge take a Cotopaxi. Spend your final day in the western Andean range where
dip in the pool and enjoy tasty meals in the outdoor dining area. you’ll view snow-capped volcanoes before returning to Quito.

Departs: Daily Accommodation: Lodge (2 nts) Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, Departs: Daily Accommodation: Hotels (2 nts) Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches,
2 dinners Tour Guide: Native guide Note: 3 or 4 nights options also available 1 dinner Transport: Private transport with English speaking guide from airport
Tour Code: UIOSUI & on day tours Tour Code: UIOCOT

LOCAL LIVING ECUADOR FR$649 GALÁPAGOS ISLAND FR$1,119
AMAZON JUNGLE CONSERVATION
7 DAYS 10 DAYS +
Quito Quito Quito & San Cristóbal Island, Ecuador

Highlights Highlights

• Spend four nights immersed in the jungle with a Quichua family • Help the locals with conservation projects
• Witness jungle marriage and shamanic healing ceremonies • Explore the idyllic beaches of San Cristobal
• Challenge local schoolkids to a game of soccer on a community visit • Get face-to-face with the island’s wildlife

Arrive into Quito and explore the city before meeting your group At this volunteering project, you’ll be surrounded by the natural
and tour leader. On Day 2, travel by bus and truck deep into the beauty of the Galápagos Islands, a pristine habitat for endemic
Amazon to spend the next four nights in rustic wooden huts wildlife which needs your help conserving for future generations. The
with a Quichua family in their small village. Over the next three biological research station aims to sustain native highland forests
days, enjoy guided walks to viewpoints and waterfalls, natural by removing invasive plant species and replacing them with native
mud face mask treatments, cooking classes to learn how to make vegetation, as well as working alongside local landowners to develop
chocolate and cassava beer and a canoe ride to an animal rescue agricultural alternatives for food production. Your daily tasks will
centre. You’ll also have time for optional whitewater rafting before range from contributing to soil preparation and trail maintenance to
returning to Quito. The tour ends any time on Day 7. organic farming. It can be hard work but is hugely rewarding.

Trip Style: Local Living Service Level: Basic Departs: Selected Saturdays (Apr- Project Start Date: Saturdays Getting there: Flights included to/from San
Oct) Accommodation: Jungle lodge (4 nts), hotel (2 nts) Transport: Local bus, Cristobal Accommodation: Simple hotel (2 nts), shared basic & rustic cabin
canoe, pickup truck Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow (7 nts) Meals: Most meals included Stay Longer: Fr $369 per week Notes:
USD $40-60 for meals not included Tour Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), USD$100 Galápagos Islands Park entry & USD $10 Tourist Transit visa not
local guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: GASEJL included (pay in cash) Tour Code: GATSEVGT

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 85

COLOMBIA

PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

TOP 5 MUST-DO’s

1. WALLOW IN A VOLCANIC MUD CRATER
2. EXPLORE COLONIAL CARTAGENA
3. SIP FRESH COFFEE AT A PLANTATION
4. LAZE ON WHITE CARIBBEAN BEACHES
5. SAMPLE A ZINGY SEAFOOD CEVICHE

CARTAGENA • SANTA MARTA
(TAYRONA N.P.)

• TOLU

MEDELLIN
MANIZALES

BOGOTÁ

ARMENIA

COLOMBIA COLOMBIA FR$2,999
HIGHLIGHTS FR$1,999 EXPERIENCE
12 DAYS
Bogotá Bogotá 12 DAYS Bogotá Bogotá

Highlights Highlights PERU, BOLIVIA, ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

• Soak up the colonial charm in the historic trading port of Cartagena • Visit coffee plantations in Armenia and enjoy its smooth flavour
• Lay back on beautiful Caribbean beaches on the Rosario Islands • Soak in soothing hot springs in beautiful Santa Rosa del Cabal
• Spend a cosy night sleeping in a hammock in Tayrona National Park • Explore vibrant Medellín, known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’

DAY ITINERARY DAY ITINERARY

01 Bogotá 01 Bogotá
02-04 Arrive into Bogotá any time, and spend the rest of the day at leisure 02-03 Arrive into Bogotá at any time, catch the included transfer to your
05-06 exploring Colombia’s capital city. Meet up with your group tonight. 04-05 comfortable hotel and explore before meeting the rest of your group.
Cartagena 06-07 Armenia
07-10 Free time in Bogotá this morning before flying to Cartagena. This 08-10 Travel to Armenia, where it’s time to wake up and smell the coffee!
11-12 beautiful colonial city is split into a modern beach area and historic 11-12 Enjoy an included jeep tour to small villages, a coffee plantation and
downtown, which you’ll see on an included city tour. You can also the botanic gardens, plus free time for optional activities such as
take an optional ‘chiva’ bus tour by night and visit the white sand kayaking, rafting and the canopy zipline. (2B, 2L, 2D)
beaches of Islas del Rosario National Park. Here, the equivalent to a Salento / Santa Rosa
spa treatment is a soak in the crater of the Totumo mud volcano. (B) Journey to the cute and colourful coffee village of Salento, with its
Tolu incredible landscapes of mountains and river valleys. Take a tour to
Yet to be fully discovered by foreigners, this charming, laid-back a coffee farm and taste the finest local blends. Next up, Santa Rosa,
beach town is popular with holidaying Colombians. Tuck into seafood for a relaxing visit to its thermal hot springs. (2B, 2L, 2D)
specialities, party in the unique local discos and enjoy an included Medellín
boat and snorkelling tour of the pristine San Bernardo Islands. Continue north to Medellín for two days in this vibrant, cultural
Santa Marta / Taganga / Tayrona National Park city with plenty of free time to explore the many attractions. Ride
Travel along the coast to Colombia’s oldest city, Santa Marta, popular the cable car, take in the views from Nutibara Hill or sign up for an
for its colonial architecture, beaches and nature reserves. Continue optional paragliding excursion or Pablo Escobar tour. (2B)
to Taganga, the launch pad for Tayrona N.P. Head off on an overnight Cartagena
excursion to sleep in hammocks within the park, which boasts wildlife Fly to the Caribbean coast and World Heritage Site of Cartagena, an
including black howler monkeys, iguanas, eagles and condors. Visit historic, walled city with great beaches and vibrant nightlife. Day 10
the pre-Hispanic village of Pueblito while hiking to waterfalls and is free for an optional boat trip over to the Islas del Rosario N.P. with
lookouts with great views of the Sierra Nevada. (B, L, D) its stunning beaches, or for soaking in Totumo mud volcano. (3B)
Bogotá Bogotá
Return to Santa Marta and fly back to Bogotá where you’ll have a Fly back to Bogotá for an afternoon and evening to discover its
free afternoon and evening for an optional city tour or to explore on world-class museums, colonial churches, lively street art and pulsating
your own. Your adventure ends after breakfast on Day 12. (B) nightlife. The tour comes to an end at any time on Day 12. (2B)

Inclusions Inclusions Cartagena

Trip Style: Classic Service Level: Standard Cartagena Santa Marta Trip Style: Comfort Service Level: Upgraded
Physical Grading: 3 Age Group: Any age Tolu (Tayrona NP) Physical Grading: 2 Age Group: Any age
Accommodation: Hotels (10 nts), hammock Accommodation: Comfort hotels (11 nts)
(1 nt) Transport: Plane, public bus, boat Meals: Transport: Bus, van, jeep, plane Meals: 11 COLOMBIA
3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Budget: Allow breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget:
USD $230-300 for meals not included Group Allow USD $375-425 for meals not included
Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local Group Leader: Chief Experience Officer (CEO),
guides Group Size: Max 16, Avg 10 Tour Code: local guides Group Size: Max 15, Avg 6 Tour
GASMCH Code: GASMCE

My Own Room Available: Fr $699 My Own Room Available: Fr $999

Departures 2014 Departures 2014 Medellin

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Bogotá START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH Santa Rosa Bogotá
del Cabal
Jan 04 Jan 15 Jul 12 Jul 23 Oct 11 Oct 22 COLOMBIA Feb 19 Mar 02 Jun 18 Jun 29 Oct 25 Nov 05
Mar 08 Mar 19 Aug 09 Aug 20 Nov 08 Nov 19 Mar 19 Mar 30 Jul 26 Aug 06 Nov 19 Nov 30 Salento
May 10 May 21 Sep 06 Sep 17 Dec 13 Dec 24 Apr 26 May 07 Aug 20 Aug 31 Dec 17 Dec 28
Jun 07 Jun 18 May 24 Jun 04 Sep 17 Sep 28 Armenia

CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK 87