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Latin America 2019 Flipbook PDF
Latin America 2019
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LATIN AMERICA
Your Choice in Latin America Welcome to our 2019 Latin America brochure, a collection of our favourite inspiring places, hotels and experiences in South and Central America. Whether you want to live like a local in Buenos Aires, witness the grandeur of the Iguaçu Falls or feel the hair on the back of your neck tingle when you catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu, we are here to build your perfect trip. Our first-hand knowledge of the continent comes from years of travel, so we can create your dream trip. Visit our website for more inspiration or call a Rainbow Tours Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1260 for expert advice.
Our Commitment to You Every trip to Latin America is special. For many people, it genuinely is a once in a lifetime experience and we take this responsibility seriously by doing all we can to make sure that every holiday we create lives up to the highest expectations.
Specialist Knowledge Our London-based team of Travel Specialists travel frequently and extensively so that they can offer specialist advice to help plan your ideal Latin America holiday. It’s this knowledge and experience that allows us to craft personalised itineraries that perfectly suit you and your interests.
Tailor-made Journeys We specialise in tailor-made holidays. Whether you want to stay in simple or luxurious accommodation, travel solo or with a guide, spend a week travelling or a month, we can create a holiday to fit your budget and requests. In this brochure you will find a selection of suggested itineraries. However, these are just for inspiration, and can be adapted to create your perfect trip.
Holidays Protected by ATOL Your financial protection is important to us, which is why we are fully bonded by ATOL. Our ATOL licence (2786) protects any Rainbow Tours package that includes a flight, and ensures that your money would be refunded or that you would be repatriated in the unlikely event of our insolvency. We are also a member of ABTA (ABTA number V2359), which means we are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you. Also, if your holiday does not include flights, ABTA will financially protect your holiday by ensuring you receive a refund or, if your arrangements include return travel to the UK (other than flights), you are returned to the UK if your holiday cannot be provided as a result of our insolvency.
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Contents 04 ARGENTINA
54 The Galapagos Islands
06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13
56 Galapagos Cruises 57 Simply Galapagos
Buenos Aires Iguazú Falls | Mendoza Salta, the North West | Argentina’s Lake District Iberá Wetlands | Valdes Peninsula Argentinian Patagonia | Ushuaia & Tierra del Fuego Uruguay Highlights of Argentina Highlights of Argentina & Uruguay
14 Antarctica & The Falklands 16 CHILE 18 19 20 21 22 23
Santiago | Valparaíso & Chile’s Winelands Atacama Desert | Easter Island The Lake District | Chiloé Island Chilean Patagonia Highlights of Chile Splendours of Patagonia
24 BRAZIL 26 27 28 29 30 31
Rio de Janeiro Búzios | The Emerald Coast The Amazon Rainforest | The Pantanal Lençóis Maranhenses & the North East Iguaçu Falls | Salvador de Bahia Classic Brazil
32 PERU 34 35 36 38 39 40 41
Lima & The Surrounds Cuzco The Sacred Valley Northern Peru | The Peruvian Amazon Arequipa & Colca Canyon | Lake Titicaca Treasures of Peru Andes & Amazon Adventure
42 BOLIVIA 44 45 46 47
La Paz | Sucre & Potosí Lake Titicaca | Madidi National Park Salar de Uyuni Highlights of Bolivia
48 ECUADOR 50 51 52 53
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Quito | Otavalo The Avenue of the Volcanoes | Cuenca Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest & Cloud Forests Ecuador Explorer
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58 COLOMBIA 60 61 62 63
Bogotá & Villa de Leyva The Coffee Region | Medellín & The Surrounds Cartagena & Tayrona Colours of Colombia
64 Costa Rica 66 San José & The Central Valley | Tortuguero & the Caribbean Coast 67 Arenal & the North | Monteverde Cloud Forest 68 Guanacaste, Nicoya & Pacific Coast Beaches | Manuel Antonio & the Central Pacific 69 Osa Peninsula & Corcovado 70 Costa Rica Highlights 71 Central American Journey
72 MEXICO 74 75 76 77 78 79
Mexico City | Copper Canyon Oaxaca | Baja California San Cristóbal & Palenque | Riviera Maya & Holbox Yutacan Peninsula Magical Mexico The Mayan World
80 Guatemala 82 83 84 85
Antigua | Lake Atitlán & Chichicastenango Flores & Tikal | Rio Dulce & Livingston Highlights of Guatemala Classic Guatemala & Belize
86 GuYANA 88 Guyana Nature Tour 89 Birdwatching in Guyana
90 BELIZE 92 93 94 95
Cayo District | Orange Walk Toledo District | Placencia & South Coast Belize’s Cayes Belize Mayan Discovery & Beach
96 Nicaragua 98 PANAMA 100 RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER
Gulf of Mexico
Belize
Mexico
Honduras Caribbean Sea Guatemala
Atlantic Ocean Venezuela Guyana Suriname
Nicaragua
French Guiana
Panama
Costa Rica
Colombia
Galapagos Islands
Ecuador
Pacific Ocean Peru
Brazil
Easter Island Paraguay
Bolivia
Uruguay
Chile
Argentina
South Georgia
Falkland Islands
Antarctic Peninsula
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Bolivia
Paraguay
Salta
Iguazú Falls
Argentina
Brazil
Cordoba
Uruguay
Mendoza Buenos Aires
Chile
The Pampas
Lake District
Peninsula Valdes
Bariloche
Patagonia
El Calafate Tierra del Fuego Ushuaia
ARGENTINA
W
ith its dramatic landscapes, cosmopolitan cities and lively culture, Argentina is a country of immense beauty, a true traveller’s delight. Latin flavour meets influence from European settlers in Buenos Aires, showcased in much of its architecture and elegant boulevards. Near Buenos Aires, The Pampas offer a unique insight into the gaucho way of life on traditional estancias, teeming with cattle and horses. Make sure to try Argentine beef cooked on a quincho barbecue.
With a spectacular backdrop of the Andes, the vineyards around stylish, tree-lined Mendoza produce some of Argentina’s best wines; tipples so good it would almost be rude not to sample them. In the north west, towards Salta, the landscape changes to rocky desert and you’ll find the Hill of Seven Colours and the Humahuaca Gorge. In the north east, the thundering Iguazú Falls straddle the Argentina/Brazil border – a 4
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‘must-see’ on any trip, especially when combined with the wildlife-rich Iberá Wetlands. The beautiful Lake District is home to over 20 deep-blue lakes, pristine forests and the snow-capped Andes. Bariloche, an alpine town and the lakes’ central point, is an ideal base for hiking and kayaking. Meanwhile on the east coast, Peninsula Valdes is a renowned marine mammal mecca, home to penguins, whales, sea lions and elephant seals. The wild region of Patagonia spans the southern reaches of Argentina, boasting estancias home to cattleranching gaucho, and Ushuaia, the stepping-off point for Antarctic explorations. Head to El Calafate to access the iconic El Perito Moreno Glacier, located within Los Glaciares National Park.
...tipples so good it would almost be rude not to sample them
Top Tips • • • • •
Explore cosmopolitan Buenos Aires Admire dramatic desertscapes around Salta Gaze over the mighty Iguazú Falls Wonder at the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier Visit Argentina’s worldfamous wineries
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO Covering a large distance, Argentina can be visited all year round. However, the southern half of the country is best visited between October and April, with the peak months being December to February. Even in these months, the weather can be unpredictable and windy. The northwest of the country is best visited between April and December when the weather is characterised by sunny days. The Iguazú Falls are an all year round destination and can become very hot and humid between December and April, but cooler at other times of the year. GETTING THERE British Airways operates a direct service from London Heathrow and Norwegian Airlines operates a direct service from London Gatwick to Buenos Aires. GMT -3 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Argentina.
El Perito Moreno Glacier
HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Argentina. CALL US ON 020 7666 1260
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Buenos Aires
La Boca
With its classic European architecture, plazas, fountains and wide boulevards, Argentina’s dynamic capital city is often called the Paris of South America. It’s a fantastic city from which to get a real feel for Argentine culture and lifestyles, with a buzzing café culture, interesting museums and galleries, steakhouses serving mouth-watering prime cuts of beef, and tango shows dancing the evenings away. It’s also the place where most visitors to
Alvear Palace
| Located
in the heart of upmarket Recoleta
Recoleta, this hotel is close to many
rooms and suites. The restaurant
The open-kitchen restaurant serves
offers fine French cuisine prepared by the hotel’s Relais & Châteaux
chef and L’Orangerie serves delicious afternoon tea.
Recoleta Grand
Situated in the heart of the
|
fashionable Recoleta neighbour-
hood, this modern and stylish hotel has 90 modern suites with
spa-quality bathrooms – and a rooftop spa. Dine at the Jenny
restaurant for delicious meals in a sophisticated atmosphere or Club 31 for
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Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta | Also located in
and surrounded by the finest city shops, this elegant hotel has 197
informal meals, cocktails and snacks.
Argentina begin their trip. The city is split into very different and unique neighbourhoods. The areas of most interest to visitors include the colourful old port district of La Boca, the trendsetting shops and restaurants of Palermo, the modern skyline of Puerto Madero, the Parisian architecture of Recoleta and the Art Deco cafés and restaurants of Retiro.
restaurants, cafés and boutiques.
up delicious local and international dishes and the elegant rooms
feature all modern amenities and en-suite bathrooms.
Legado Mitico
| Delve
into Argentine history at Legado
Mitico in the Palermo Soho district. Choose one of the 11 individually decorated rooms, inspired by the
lives of famous Argentineans such
as Che Guevara and Eva Perón. This hotel oozes old-world style yet has
plenty of the city’s most stylish bars and restaurants on the doorstep.
Iguazú Falls Situated in north east Argentina, Iguazú Falls is one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders. It lies on the border between Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay and consists of a network of 275 different waterfalls spanning an area 3km wide. A wildlife haven for birds and butterflies, Iguazú has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986 and is a ‘must-see’
Awasi Iguazú
when visiting Argentina or Brazil. A series of pathways running through the national park allow for exceptional views from a number of vantage points. The infamous Devil’s Throat, where the largest proportion of water plummets down 90m into a U-shaped chasm, is best enjoyed from the boardwalk out over the edge!
Melia Iguazú
| Just 15
| Melia
minutes from the falls, each of Awasi
Iguazú has amenities aplenty, with a
and a private plunge pool, despite
gardens and a range of guest room
Iguazú’s 14 villas offers seclusion
poolside bar and a gym, tended
being just a short walk from the main
categories to choose from, with
lodge, restaurant and bar. Access the National Park after the gates
close and take advantage of the hotel’s on-site experts and your personal guide and driver.
views across lush jungle or the
mighty falls themselves. A variety of
food is offered at the buffet-style restaurant and the spa is always worth a visit.
Mendoza Argentina is South America’s number one wine producer. With altitudes ranging from 450m to 1,100m and a variety of microclimates, it’s no surprise that Mendoza is the wine capital of Argentina. Here you’ll find wide, breezy avenues lined with trees, a mix of modern and art deco buildings, atmospheric plazas, and a cosmopolitan café scene; while the surrounding countryside is home to magnificent wine-producing estates.
Cavas Wine Lodge
Delightfully situated in the
You can practise your wine-tasting skills at any one of the wellknown wineries in the region, or spend a day or two exploring the city of Mendoza with its tree-lined streets and pretty squares. From Mendoza, you can travel overland through the Andes, crossing a high pass via Aconcagua, taking you through spectacular scenery towards Santiago in Chile.
Entre Cielos
|
between peaceful vineyards and the
foothills of the snow-capped
mighty Andes, Entre Cielos is idyllic.
Andes, this lodge with its 14
The hotel offers a range of rooms
Andean-view rooms sits at
with stylish interiors and floor-to-
the heart of 35 acres of lush
vineyards. This secluded hotel
has an outstanding wine cellar and you can taste a selection of its 250 Mendoza-region wines with the sommelier or during a private dinner.
| Nestled
ceiling windows showcasing the
stunning surrounds. Sample local
ingredients at Katharina or stop by the spa to make use of Latin America’s first traditional hammam.
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Salta & the North West Salta and the north west of Argentina have a very different feel to the more cosmopolitan parts of the country. Home to some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the country, this is a land of rich red desert earth, vivid blue skies and awe-inspiring mountainous panoramas. Founded in 1582, Salta is one of Argentina’s most attractive cities, retaining much of its colonial
charm, and offers a great base from which to explore the north west, home to many indigenous villages. Visitors can explore the Calchaquí Valley and the wineries of Cafayate; visit the fort at Quilmes, which once marked the southern boundary of the Inca Empire; or take a 4WD to the Humahuaca Gorge, leading into the Andes towards the Atacama Desert.
La Merced del Alto |
Viñas de Cafayate
|
Located at the top of the valley, this
Viñas de Cafayate is located just
the scenic landscape as well as 14
beautiful vineyards, with 22 rooms,
hotel boasts sweeping views over
outside Cafayate and is set in
large bedrooms, a pool, living room
some of which boast a private
and spa with outdoor jacuzzi and
massage rooms. Guests can dine at
the gourmet Andean á la carte restaurant and enjoy after-dinner drinks at the bar.
balcony, and a lovely swimming pool. On the terrace guests can enjoy a
glass of wine from the extensive cellar, and at the gourmet restaurant eat fresh produce from the organic garden.
Argentina’s Lake District The Lake District of northern Patagonia is renowned for its beautiful scenic lakes set against the backdrop of the Andes, bordering Chile. There are some 20 lakes in the region, the largest being Lake Nahuel Huapi on the shores of which sits the pretty town of Bariloche. It has an alpine feel with Swiss-chaletstyle wooden architecture. Both the town and the surrounding
Llao Llao
| Llao Llao is
El Casco Art Hotel is set in the
Lake District with the feel of a grand
District with breathtaking views
mountain lodge. The 205 rooms are spread over two wings and a vast number of outdoor activities are
offered including an 18-hole golf course, kayaking, mountain biking and
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El Casco Art Hotel
located within the Nahuel Huapi
National Park in the centre of the
abseiling.
lakeshore region make an ideal base for hiking, rafting, kayaking, climbing, fishing and cycling, with skiing available in the winter months near Cerro Catedral. A few hours drive north of Bariloche along the Seven Lakes road lies the picturesque town of San Martín de los Andes – the gateway to the stunning Lanin National Park and a haven for lovers of the great outdoors. |
heart of the Argentine Lake
over the Nahuel Huapi Lake. The restaurant serves food made with local produce, which the
sommelier can match to perfection with wine, and the hotel is filled with art you could spend all day browsing.
IBERÁ Wetlands To the south of Iguazú, the Iberá Wetlands are the second largest marshlands in South America and are double the size of the Everglades in Florida (the largest wetlands being Brazil’s Pantanal). Still a relatively remote region, the area is home to an
Puerto Valle
beautifully restored traditional
Estancia Rincón de Socorro | This refined,
stunning views of the Paraná River
12,000-hectare former cattle ranch,
| This
estancia features 13 rooms, all with and private balconies or verandas. In the evening enjoy great food made ed by a specially selected wine menu.
abundance of wildlife, including anacondas, capybaras, caiman, marsh deer, howler monkeys and giant storks. We recommend a stay on an estancia where you can explore on horseback as well as by boat.
from local ingredients complement-
eco-tourist estancia is a
now a dedicated nature reserve, in the heart of the Iberá Wetlands. Choose from the three small
bungalows or the six rooms in the main house, and take advantage of superb wines and free-range meats in the dining room.
Valdes Peninsula For wildlife enthusiasts we recommend a visit to Patagonia’s Valdes Peninsula, which juts out into the South Atlantic Ocean to the east of Patagonia and is a haven for marine wildlife. The peninsula is an important breeding ground for the Southern Right whales that occupy these waters between July and November to mate and give birth. It is also an opportunity to
Bahia Bustamente
This beautiful lodge sits on
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the seaside and is surrounded on all sides by nature. Eleven
cabins and the Main Lodge offer beautiful views and comfortable accommodation with a classic
Patagonian atmosphere. The restaurant serves local food, with the fruit and vegetables all from the hotel’s own organic garden.
visit the Punta Tombo penguin rookery, south of the peninsula. This important site is the largest breeding ground for Magellanic penguins in South America with up to half a million arriving every year to breed. The best months to see penguins are from September to March, but the babies are hatched from November onwards.
Estancia Rincon Chico
This remote lodge was constructed
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in the style of old English houses
imported in the 19th century and is
full of character. The eight rooms are rustic and comfortable, and during the day are powered exclusively by
renewable energy. Enjoy activities such as whale-watching and even sheep-shearing, if you arrive in the right season!
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ARGENTINIAN Patagonia Patagonia encompasses a huge area of southern Argentina and Chile and its very name conjures up images of remote, uncharted territory. Inland, Argentina’s lowlands give way to the Southern Andes mountain range characterised by majestic peaks and sparkling lakes with pebble beaches. Further south, glaciers fill the valleys in the Andean foothills and flow into glacial lakes, with Perito Moreno in Los Glaciares National Park the
Eolo
most famous. El Calafate is the perfect base from which to visit the mighty Perito Moreno, Upsala and Onelli glaciers or from which to cross into Chile, while El Chaltén offers spectacular trekking through Fitzroy National Park. Patagonia stretches to the very southern tip of the continent to Tierra del Fuego and Cape Horn.
Esplendor El Calafate
| Occupying an idyllic
location on a 3,000-hectare
This boutique hotel is situated a
views towards the valley and Lago
Calafate. Choose from the 57
property, Eolo offers uninterrupted
15-minute walk from the centre of El
Argentino. The lodge has 17 suites,
rooms and suites with beautiful
a restaurant, bar, library, indoor
swimming pool and sauna. Eolo is a
member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux group, so you can be assured of excellent service.
views. There is a restaurant with views of the town and lake, an
in-house bakery, cocktails served at the bar and a wine cellar, along with a very relaxing spa and swimming pool.
Ushuaia & Tierra del Fuego Right at the southernmost point of the continent, sitting between Cape Horn and the Magellan Strait, the windswept Tierra del Fuego archipelago is shared between Chile and Argentina, and is home to glaciers, snowy mountains and trees bent into an array of spectacular shapes by the wind. Here visitors will visit the world’s most southerly town of Ushuaia,
Los Cauquenes
which is the hub for exploring the region and the jumping-off point for expedition boats setting sail for Antarctica. Nature lovers set their sights on Ushuaia for the fantastic sea lion, Magellan penguin and pilot whale sighting opportunities, and the town is also home to fascinating frontier history, spanning the first primitive inhabitants to the early Antarctic explorers. Arakur Resort & Spa |
| This
hotel offers 54 spacious bedrooms,
Inside the Cerro Alarken Natural
direct beach access. At the
commands a spectacular view over
including five suites, great views and
Reserve, Arakur Resort & Spa
Reinamora restaurant, enjoy
the water. On a natural balcony 800
traditional Patagonian food such as king crab and fantastic Argentine
wines. Relax at the swimming pool or indulge in a soothing massage in the End of the World Spa. 10
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feet above sea level, the hotel
features 114 stylish rooms and three
spacious suites. Enjoy superb city views from La Cravia restaurant or head to the Lobby Bar for a relaxed evening.
Uruguay
Colonia del Sacramento
Often overshadowed by Argentina and Brazil, its vastly larger neighbours, little Uruguay is incredibly lovely but relatively unknown outside South America. Vistors can cross the River Plate by hydrofoil in a few hours from Buenos Aires or fly into Montevideo or Punta del Este. A capital city with a seriously laidback vibe, Montevideo has a crumbling ‘ciudad vieja’ at its heart, surrounded by fine neo-classical and Art Deco buildings that fight for space with worn out 70s-style skyscrapers. Ancient Colonia, with its cobblestone streets and many Portuguese
Estancia Vik
| Set on
and Spanish colonial buildings, was once a rival to the Spanish dominated Montevideo. Today, Uruguay’s oldest town has retained its immense charm and its compact city centre is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Uruguay’s coastline offers laid-back seaside retreats and upmarket beach resorts. Its interior is full of quiet pastures, rolling hills and sleepy villages. Incredible food and wine is to be found here, and Rainbow recommends taking the time to sample plenty of local dishes and vintages.
Charco Hotel
| Each of
beautiful land with panoramic views
the seven guestrooms at Charco
offers only 12 suites, each uniquely
World Heritage Site of Colonia de
all around, this exclusive estancia
decorated with beautiful artwork. Spend time in the elegant dining
room and explore the vaulted cellar
with around 5,000 wines or enjoy a barbecue under the starry skies.
Hotel, situated within the UNESCO Sacramento, is spacious, individually decorated and boasts a private
balcony. Spend an evening in the
hotel’s restaurant, dining al fresco as the sun sets, enjoying the dishes made from carefully selected fresh ingredients.
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Highlights of Argentina
Iguazú Falls
Suggested Itinerary
Begin this tour in the intoxicating buzz of Buenos Aires. Visit legendary neighbourhoods, take in a tango show and soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Next, delve into nature and wonder at the mighty Iguazú Falls, then fly into the wild terrain and mesmerising mountains of Patagonia with its picture-perfect vistas and incredible walking trails. End your tour with three blissful days in and around Mendoza, tasting delicious Argentine wines, before heading back to Buenos Aires for your flight home. Day 1 Fly to Buenos Aires | Depart the UK
Day 7 Iguazú to El Calafate | Fly via Buenos
Day 2 Buenos Aires | Upon arrival, you will be
This is a land of colossal mountain ranges
on your overnight flight to Buenos Aires.
met and transferred to your hotel. The rest
of the day is at leisure. Discover the classical architecture, plazas, fountains and wide
boulevards in the ‘Paris of South America’.
Day 3 Buenos Aires | Take a private, guided tour of Buenos Aires. Visit the colourful district of La
Boca with its quirky caminitos, upmarket Recoleta and trendy Palermo, among other famous neighbourhoods.
Day 4 Buenos Aires | Today is at leisure, so why not book an optional excursion?
Visit an estancia out in the Pampas to enjoy a gaucho show and sample a delicious
Argentine quincho barbecue, or perhaps a tango show and steak dinner in the city.
Day 5 Buenos Aires to Iguazú | Fly to Iguazú and enjoy a tour of the Argentine side of the
falls before transferring to your hotel. The rich sub-tropical forest surrounding the falls is
home to a vast array of wildlife including tropical birds, butterflies, monkeys and coatamundis. Day 6 Iguazú | Cross the border to visit the
Brazilian side of the falls. Walk the 3km paved trail to a point where you can see the earth appear to
open as thundering falls crash over a horseshoeshaped precipice nearly 5km wide and 90m high.
Aires to El Calafate in the heart of Patagonia. crowned in snow and pristine glaciers descending into turquoise lakes.
Day 8 El Calafate | Visit the Los Glaciares National Park and, most importantly, the El
Perito Moreno Glacier. Admire its splendour from different viewpoints as you walk the trails, and take a boat trip to enjoy views from lake level.
Day 9 El Calafate to Mendoza | Fly to Mendoza, the gateway to Argentina’s spectacular
wine lands. Spend the next three nights on a
winery. The area around Mendoza contributes to 70% of Argentina’s wine production, and boasts Malbec as its speciality.
Day 10 Mendoza | Enjoy a full day tour of three nearby wineries and eat a delicious gourmet lunch with paired wines.
Day 11 Mendoza | Spend today at leisure. The area around Mendoza is wonderful for visiting
many different wineries and bodegas, as well as bike and horse riding, and of course relaxing. Day 12 Mendoza to Buenos Aires | Fly to Buenos Aires for your final night.
Days 13-14 Fly to the UK | Transfer to the
airport for the overnight flight back to the UK. NB: An alternate ending can take you to the Argentine Lake District instead of Mendoza if you’re still seeking a nature fix. Speak to a Rainbow specialist to find out more.
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HIGHLIGHTS OF ARGENTINA & URUGUAY
National Congress Building, Buenos Aires
Suggested Itinerary
With this itinerary, discover the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires, the grandeur of the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier and the spectacular Iguazú Falls in Argentina. Then head into Uruguay, crossing the River Plate to the charming town of Colonia del Sacramento. Meander the streets of its capital city, Montevideo, where the old lives alongside the modern. End with a relaxing few days at the chic beach resort of José Ignacio. Days 1-2 Fly to Buenos Aires | Depart
Day 8 Iguazú to Buenos Aires | In the
Aires. Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, you
and take one last opportunity to marvel
the UK on your overnight flight to Buenos will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 3 Buenos Aires | Explore cosmopolitan
Buenos Aires with your knowledgeable private guide. Visit the colourful neighbourhood of La
Boca, upmarket Recoleta and trendy Palermo.
Head to the Plaza de Mayo, flanked by the pink presidential palace, then in the evening enjoy tango with dinner.
Day 4 Buenos Aires to El Calafate | Fly
south to El Calafate in the heart of Patagonia.
Immerse yourself in the endless beauty of the steppes. If you’re a meat-eater, indulge in the
excellent Patagonian lamb – you won’t regret it. Day 5 Perito Moreno Glacier | Take
a day trip from El Calafate to this awe-
inspiring natural wonder, driving through a long expanse of lenga forest before
finding yourself at the 4km long glacier.
Day 6 El Calafate to Iguazú | Fly to Iguazú via
Buenos Aires. Experience the heat of the jungle as you arrive ready to view the largest waterfall system in the world over the next two days. Day 7 Iguazú | With your private guide,
cross the border to see the falls from the
Brazilian side. Witness the true magnitude
of the Iguazú Falls, thundering over the edge
morning, visit the Argentine side of the falls at this natural wonder. In the afternoon, fly back to Buenos Aires for one night. Day 9 Buenos Aires to Colonia del
Sacramento | Take the ferry across the
River Plate to Colonia del Sacramento, one of Uruguay’s most charming towns and a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of the historic centre. Day 10 Colonia to Montevideo | In the
morning, head to Montevideo, Uruguay’s
capital. This afternoon enjoy a tour that will take you round the city, including Ciudad Veja, the old city, whose faded colonial
grandeur often reminds visitors of Havana.
Day 11 Montevideo to José Ignacio | Enjoy
being driven to José Ignacio, a tiny coastal resort town perfect for rest and relaxation. Spend the next three nights kicking back and enjoying the
laid-back beachy atmosphere and excellent food. Days 12-13 José Ignacio | Pass your days
relaxing on the beach, taking full advantage of José Ignacio’s many art galleries, restaurants
and boutiques; or head out to explore more of Uruguay’s picturesque coastline and interior. Days 14-15 Fly to the UK | Transfer to the
airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
of the Paraná Plateau, forming dozens of
smaller waterfalls over its 2.7km length. Get an up-close view of the Devil’s Throat.
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Antarctica Even in our current age of rapid mass travel, instantaneous communication and of having all the information we could ever want at our fingertips, Antarctica lurks as an icy behemoth at the edges of our imaginations. No longer is this mysterious white continent out of reach to all but the most intrepid explorer, however. On board a group expedition ship, you can plough through the pack ice during a brief period in the southern hemisphere’s summer months and see the continent at the bottom of the world with your own eyes.
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Zodiac excursion in Antarctica
Either brave the two-day crossing of the challenging Drake Passage by ship from Ushuaia in Argentina, or fly from Punta Arenas in Chile to the Antarctic Peninsula. Once on your purpose-built expedition ship, you can take daily excursions on smaller boats to set foot on Antarctica itself, finding yourself surrounded by incredible wildlife, from emperor penguins to leopard seals and whales.
...Wild, freezing and wonderful, Antarctica is the ultimate destination for intrepid travellers and perhaps the last true wilderness on Earth.
The Falkland Islands Said to be the only place in the world where man and penguin live in harmony, the Falklands are an archipelago made up of hospitable locals, wonderful nature and stunning landscapes. With over 70 species of animal coming here to breed, you are all but guaranteed splendid wildlife-spotting activities. Head out to sea to search out Minke whales and orca, or traverse the islands in search of Rockhopper, Gentoo, King and Magellanic penguins. Don’t forget to cast an eye upwards in search of Antarctic Skuas and Southern Great Petrels. A major highlight are the migratory black-browed Albatross, who come to breed in September every year. You can visit their colony until they leave in April.
Magellanic Penguin
Getting around the islands is part of the fun, especially hopping aboard one of the light aircraft that fly from island to island and offer incomparable views from the air. Take advantage of amazing walking trails on the small outer islands and above all relish the sense of space and freedom, where you might end up with an entire island to yourself.
...With their wide-open spaces, almost complete lack of pollution or crime, and welcoming islanders – not to mention amazing wildlife – the Falklands won’t be islands you forget in a hurry. CALL US ON 020 7666 1260
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Peru
Bolivia
Paraguay
San Pedro de Atacama Atacama Desert
Brazil Argentina Easter Island
Uruguay
Valparaiso
Santiago
Chile
Puerto Varas Chiloé
Lake District
Torres del Paine Puerto Natales Punta Arenas
CHILE
L
ong and slender, Chile stretches almost 2,600 miles down the south-western Pacific coast of South America. What it lacks in width – the average width of the mainland, from the sea to the Andes, is just 220 miles – it more than makes up for in natural beauty. Whether you’re cruising through the fjords, hiking mountain trails, discovering the history of offshore islands or exploring vast salt flats, Chile holidays do not disappoint.
In stark contrast to the arid north, in the south visitors are drawn to the iconic Torres del Paine, often considered Chile’s most spectacular national Park. Here, impressive granite pillars reach for the heavens while immense glaciers calve into vivid blue and turquoise lakes. It’s the perfect outdoor adventure experience for keen hikers and horse riders.
Santiago, most visitors’ first stop in Chile, is a modern and lively capital located close to Chile’s world-renowned wine regions, and within easy reach of the bohemian port city of Valparaíso. In the north of the country lies the Atacama Desert. This is the driest place on earth and home to some truly unique travel experiences. From the town of San Pedro de Atacama, visitors can explore vivid red desert landscapes and Altiplano lagoons, roam vast expanses of salt flats, watch explosive geysers erupt and discover the Valley of the Moon.
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...visitors can explore vivid red desert landscapes and Altiplano lagoons, roam vast expanses of salt flats, watch explosive geysers erupt and discover the Valley of the Moon
Top Tips • • • • •
See bright pink flamingos in the Atacama Desert Be awestruck by Torres del Paine National Park See the iconic Moai statues on Easter Island Enjoy delicious wine tasting in the Chilean Winelands Take an Australis Expedition cruise through the fjords
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO Chile can be visited all year round. Patagonia in the south is best visited between October and April, with the peak months being December to February. In the Atacama, days are generally sunny but can cool down considerably in the winter evenings of May to August. Santiago and the Central Valley enjoy a Mediterranean-style climate year-round. Easter Island has a subtropical climate. GETTING THERE British Airways operates a direct service from London Heathrow to Santiago. Other popular routes are with LATAM via São Paulo, Air France via Paris or Iberia via Madrid. GMT -4 hours. Easter Island GMT -6 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to visit Chile. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Chile.
Valley of the Moon, Atacama Desert
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Santiago Chile’s capital is a modern, dynamic city that reflects the impressive economic growth of the country in recent decades. It’s a busy metropolis with a calm historic centre boasting several cultural highlights including San Cristóbal Park, The National Museum of Fine Arts and the Plaza de Armas. The fashionable suburbs of Lastarria, Las Condes or Providencia
are home to relaxed European-style bars and restaurants, and the city boasts excellent places to stay including many of the top chains and some fantastic boutique hotels. Enjoying a Mediterranean climate, Santiago is within an hour or so of some of the most productive vineyards in the world, the historic city port of Valparaíso and the resort of Viña del Mar.
Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel | Casa Bueras is a stylish
renovated and restored, this
Luciano K
Lastarria district. Built in 1927, the
charming, with plenty of original
boutique hotel in Santiago’s
Art-Deco-style boutique hotel is
hotel has 14 rooms and suites,
features. Accommodation is spread
some with balconies.
Relax on the terrace, enjoy the
outdoor pool and gym or taste locally produced food in the bar-lounge as well as fine Chilean wines.
| Carefully
over six floors, with facilities
including a sauna, heated plunge
pool and a spacious roof terrace offering views over the scenic Parque Forestal, where signature cocktails and tapas are served.
VALPARAÍSO & Chile’s Winelands Perched on a steep hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the city port of Valparaíso is just a few hours’ drive west of Santiago. Valparaíso is an enchanting bohemian city with steep funicular railways climbing and descending hills dotted with colourful houses and narrow streets. The city was founded in the 19th century and has always been one of the most intriguing and distinctive in the country. And then there’s the winelands.
Viña Vik
Bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Andes to the east, desert to the north and chilly Antarctic influences to the south, it’s not surprising that Chile has an exciting diversity of climates – and a correspondingly wide number of wine types. Many of the vineyards are located within two hours to the south of Santiago, but don’t miss the Casablanca Valley, on the route west to Valparaíso.
La Casona Matetic
| Ideally located in
the Millahue Valley, contemporary
This ten-bedroom property is
the surrounding mountains and
around 100km from Santiago. The
Viña Vik offers spectacular views of
situated in the Casablanca Valley,
vineyards. Each of the 22 suites is
restaurant specialises in traditional
uniquely designed by artists and
features floor-to-ceiling windows
with jaw-dropping views. Facilities include an infinity pool, Wine Spa, vineyard and games room. 18
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RAINBOW TOURS
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Chilean cuisine and there is a
reading/living room where guests
can enjoy the delicious wines from the cellar. The guesthouse is ideally situated for trips to the local wineries.
Atacama Desert Rising from sea level to over 4,000 metres into the Andes towards Bolivia, the Atacama Desert is the driest place on Earth. This lunar landscape is home to some of nature’s greatest spectacles from wind-sculpted canyons, salt lakes and active volcanoes to sandy deserts and spurting geysers. Most visitors to the region make the welcoming town of San Pedro de Atacama their base; a picturesque, small oasis town with tree-
Tierra Atacama
lined plazas, a 17th-century church and a fabulous backdrop of volcanoes, from where it is possible to visit the local villages. Don’t miss the El Tatio geysers erupting at sunrise, visit the vast Atacama salt flats where you can see flamingos and other birdlife, spend time stargazing in the Valley of the Moon and explore the high altiplano and its colourful lagoons.
Alto Atacama
| This
| Located
boutique lodge, set in San Pedro de
at the base of the breathtaking Salt
and 30 rooms constructed from
this hotel is built in the style of a
Atacama, boasts two family suites
Mountains, just 3km from San Pedro,
locally-sourced materials. Two
traditional adobe settlement. Its
inviting pools and crescent-moon-
shaped wicker chairs are perfect to
relax in plus there is an indoor pool connected to the multi-treatment Uma spa and a fantastic restaurant.
architecture, gardens and interior
design recreate an ancient Altiplanic
village. Guests can enjoy everything the Atacama Desert has to offer with knowledgeable bilingual guides.
Easter Island Easter Island is but a tiny dot in the middle of the Pacific, five hours by air from the South American mainland. Rapa Nui, as the island is called locally, is most famous for its monolithic stone statues. There are a thousand or so of these Moai statues scattered about the island, which range in height from 10 to 40ft and weigh more than 50 tons. Discovered by a Dutchman,
Explora Rapa Nui
Admiral Roggeveen, on Easter Day in 1722, this is one of the most isolated places on Earth. The people and their culture are more closely linked to Polynesia than Chile. Beyond the Moai, the landscape of the island is undulating with very few trees. The Tapati Festival takes place in February where there are traditional sporting contests, dancing and processions.
Altiplanico
|
| Set within
Situated in the south eastern part of
lush gardens, this hotel is designed
beautiful rooms that enjoy ocean
close to the town of Hanga Roa.
Rapa Nui, this property has 30
in a traditional style and located
views and are furnished with
Each of the 16 rooms has its own
pinewood floors, a living area, a
hydro-massage bath and comforta-
ble beds. Relax in the pool and spa area in the Casa de Baños Hare Vai or choose to embark on 15 inclusive excursions.
private terrace offering stunning
views of the Pacific Ocean. Other
features include a small swimming pool and an open-air restaurant serving South American inspired dishes.
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The Lake District The Lake District is one of the most beautiful areas in Chile, filled with volcanoes, pristine lakes, waterfalls and virgin forests. It is generally divided into two areas: the northern and the southern Lake District. The heart of the south is the small German-influenced town of Puerto Varas on the shore of Lake
AWA
Llanquihue. The north’s main base is Pucón, on the shores of Lake Villarrica, and is home to the indigenous Mapuche people. It is known for the active Villarrica volcano, hot springs, and its araucaria and lenga forests. From Chile’s Lake District it is possible to make a full day lake crossing into Argentina.
Hotel Vira Vira
| On the shores of
|
Lake Llanquihue lies the AWA design
Accompanied by a working farm, this
architecture combined with local
spacious rooms each with a
hotel, where contemporary
hacienda-style hotel offers 22
materials offers a unique focus on
fireplace and indoor and outdoor
sustainability and energy efficiency. Floor-to-ceiling windows
throughout bring the outside in, with spectacular views of the lake and Osorno Volcano.
tub. Ingredients are sourced from
the farm, making dining one of the
real highlights of this property. A range of activities is available, including hiking, riding, rafting and mountain biking.
CHILOÉ Island Chiloé is Chile’s second largest island but has remained relatively unknown except to Chileans. Located just off Chile’s southern coast, Chiloé is separated from the mainland by a narrow stretch of water, yet crossing to the island is like stepping back in time. The wild, western side of the island is mostly uninhabited and is home to one of the world’s few temperate rainforests. Here Parque Nacional Chiloé is famed for its dense forest, beaches and spectacular coast. The region is home to heaps of marine life, including blue whales, sei whales, several species of dolphin, sea lions and marine otters, as well as Magellanic and Humboldt penguins. The northern and eastern sides are warmer, sheltered by inland mountains, and home to the island’s towns – known for their charming UNESCO-listed wooden churches and ‘palafitos’ stilt houses. 20
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RAINBOW TOURS
Tierra Chiloé
| Situated
on Chiloé Island, this hotel has 12
rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows which offer scenic views of the Reloncaví Sound. The décor
includes simple wooden furniture,
basketry and sheepskin coverings
on chairs and the restaurant specialises in locally caught seafood and offers fantastic Chilean wines. Guests can also use the spa.
The hotel has its own boat and sea kayaks for inland water exploration. A variety of shared excursions is on offer to highlight the island’s beautiful landscapes, reveal its history, and unravel the myths and legends of this remote community.
Chilean Patagonia Chilean Patagonia is true, untouched wilderness and best known for the iconic granite pillars and icy blue lakes of Chile’s spectacular Torres del Paine National Park. One of the high points of any South American holiday, Patagonia’s Torres del Paine is around five hours by road north of Punta Arenas airport and is home to some of the world’s great treks. Settled by
Explora Patagonia
Torres del Paine National Park
sheep farmers in the late 1890s, the area can be explored on horseback as well as on foot, and there are scenic boat trips on Lago Grey. Punta Arenas is Chile’s most southerly city and the main arrival gateway by air for a tour of Torres del Paine. It is also home to the port from where you can take an expedition cruise through the fjords to Cape Horn and on to Ushuaia in Argentina.
Tierra Patagonia
| This
|
is the only lodge at the centre of
Located on the eastern edge of the
Forty-nine comfortable rooms all
Patagonia overlooks Lake Sarmien-
Torres del Paine National Park.
Torres del Paine National Park, Tierra
have spectacular panoramic views
to. The hotel offers 40 rooms, a
of the park and each day guests
choose from 35 different excursions
to explore the park on foot, by vehicle or on horseback. The bar serves a range of Chilean wine and delicious food.
Australis Cruises
|
living room, bar, presentation and dining room. After a day of
excursions, guests can relax in the outdoor Jacuzzi, indoor swimming pool, sauna and Uma Spa.
Patagonia Camp
| This
Australis Cruises navigate through
unique camp is located just outside
islands that separate the very south
shores of Lake Toro. Designed to
the network of waterways and
of Argentina and Chile. Choose from the Stella Australis and the new
Ventus Australis. Both ships offer
spacious relaxing and dining areas, a panoramic open-air roof deck and comfortable cabins all with large windows.
Torres del Paine National Park on the have minimum impact on the
environment, the complex is built on wooden stilts, including 18
Mongolian-style yurts, so that the plants are protected. Enjoy fully inclusive meals, drinks and a selection of excursions.
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21
HIGHLIGHTS OF CHILE
Atacama Desert
Suggested Itinerary
Chile boasts perhaps the greatest variety of any Latin American country when it comes to environments, ranging from the world’s driest desert to sparkling lakes, groaning glaciers and lush green forests. On this tour, experience the wonder of all of them, from exciting Santiago to the Atacama, the Lake District, and of course the stunning Torres del Paine National Park and ‘Los Cuernos’, the three granite pillars that thrust 2,000m into the air. They will take your breath away. Day 1 Fly to Santiago | Depart the UK
One of the most beautiful regions in the country,
Day 2 Santiago | Upon arrival you will be met
pristine lakes, waterfalls and virgin forests.
on an overnight flight to Santiago.
and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in this city, overlooked by the towering peaks of the Andes.
Day 3 Santiago | In the morning, take a
tour of the main highlights in this buzzing,
cosmopolitan city. Visit the important buildings such as the Government Palace, travel through the bohemian neighbourhood of Barrio
Bellavista and relish the stunning viewpoint over the valley from San Cristóbal Hill.
Day 4 Santiago to Atacama | After an early breakfast, fly to Calama, the gateway to
the Atacama, and on to the small adobe town of San Pedro de Atacama. As the
sun sets, visit the Valley of the Moon and
Death Valley, famous for their other-worldly rock formations and lunar landscapes.
Day 5 Atacama | Head for Atacama’s famous Salt Lake and the picturesque village of
Toconao with its classic Atacamenian bell tower. Drink in the Atacama’s incredible landscapes of towering volcanoes, colourful lagoons,
wind-sculpted canyons and inky black skies dotted with spectacular constellations.
Day 6 Atacama | Brave a chilly early morning
to drive high into the altiplano where you’ll find
the world’s highest geyser field, El Tatio. Enjoy a short walk and then soak in the thermal waters. Day 7 Atacama to the Chilean Lake District |
Fly to Puerto Montt in the Chilean Lake District.
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the Lake District boasts snow-capped volcanoes, Day 8 Chilean Lake District | Ascend the majestic Osorno Volcano for spectacular
panoramic views. Later head to the Petrohué Falls, where you can traverse boardwalks to
enjoy beautiful views of the river’s turquoise blue waters and the large masses of crystallised lava. Day 9 Chilean Lake District to Torres
del Paine | Depart the Lake District for
what could be considered the highlight of Patagonia: the Torres del Paine National
Park. Choose from a variety of excursions to explore this world-renowned national park. Days 10-11 Torres del Paine | With a
dramatic landscape of mountain peaks, roaring rivers, sparkling blue lakes and rich emerald
forests, visitors never fail to be impressed by Torres del Paine. These days are at leisure
to explore the area on foot, on horseback, by vehicle or to take scenic boat trips.
Day 12 Torres del Paine to Santiago |
You will be driven today to either Puerto
Natales or Punta Arenas (flight schedule dependent) for your flight to Santiago. Spend your final evening in the capital.
Days 13-14 Fly to the UK | Spend the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
Splendours of Patagonia
Bariloche, Lake District
Suggested Itinerary
Almost at the bottom of the world lies Patagonia, a region of breathtaking vistas, massive glaciers and snow-capped peaks. Patagonia straddles both Argentina and Chile, and this itinerary gives you the best of both countries. Fly into Buenos Aires and spend two nights in this exciting city, then move on to Patagonia, crossing the border into Chile for several nights’ stay before returning to Buenos Aires to round off your holiday. Day 1 Fly to Buenos Aires | Depart the UK
most beautiful region in Chile. Ascend majestic
arrange a tango show and traditional steak
Day 2 Buenos Aires | Upon arrival, you
Day 8 Chilean Lake District to Torres del
one of our travel specialists to find out more.
on your overnight flight to Buenos Aires.
will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 3 Buenos Aires | Explore Buenos Aires on a private guided tour. Visit some of the many
charming neighbourhoods including the colourful district of La Boca with its quirky caminitos, upmarket Recoleta and trendy Palermo.
Day 4 Buenos Aires to Bariloche | Fly to
the Argentine Lake District. Settle down in pretty Bariloche, with its gorgeous ‘alpine’
atmosphere, on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi. This is the largest of the 20 lakes on the Argentine side of the Andes.
Day 5 Bariloche | Today explore the
spectacular Lake District. Drink in panoramic
views of Lakes Moreno and Nahuel Huapi and marvel at Lopez and Capilla Mountains. Head further on to Mount Campanario and take a chairlift up to enjoy the stunning vistas.
Day 6 Bariloche to Puerto Varas, Chile |
Take one of the most spectacular journeys
in the world as you travel across the border into the Chilean Lake District by road and
boat. Stop en route at the magical Petrohué
waterfalls before arriving at the small town of Puerto Varas, overlooking Lake Llanquihue.
Day 7 Chilean Lake District | The Lake District boasts snow-capped volcanoes, pristine lakes, waterfalls and virgin forests, and might be the
Osorno Volcano for spectacular panoramic views. Paine | Fly to Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales (flight schedule dependent) and transfer by
road to the area often considered the highlight
dinner if you are interested. Please speak to Days 14-15 Fly to the UK | Transfer to the
airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
of Patagonia: Torres del Paine National Park.
Choose from a variety of daily excursions as you explore this superb park over the next two days. Days 9-10 Torres del Paine | With a
dramatic landscape of mountain peaks,
roaring rivers, sparkling blue lakes and rich
emerald forests, Torres del Paine never fails
to impress. Your first glimpse of ‘Los Cuernos’ (‘The Horns’) – three granite pillars soaring more than 2,000m above the Patagonian Steppe – will take your breath away.
Day 11 Torres del Paine to El Calafate ,
Argentina | Cross back into Argentina by
road. In the afternoon arrive in El Calafate, in the heart of Patagonia, which is the perfect base from which to explore the UNESCOlisted Los Glaciares National Park.
Day 12 El Perito Moreno Glacier | Venture deeper into the park to El Perito Moreno
Glacier. A mammoth river of ice 30km long
and 5km wide, this glacier cracks and roars as
it flows down the valley; a thunderous marvel. Take advantage of both walking trails and a boat ride to truly drink in its splendour.
Day 13 El Calafate to Buenos Aires | Fly to
Buenos Aires today for your final night. We can
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23
Jericoacoara Manaus
São Luís
Fortaleza Natal
The Amazon
Olinda Recife
Brazil
Peru
Salvador
Bolivia
Brasilia
Cuiabá The Pantanal
Belo Horizonte
Paraguay
São Paulo
Búzios Rio de Janeiro
Iguaçu Falls
Argentina
Florianópolis
Chile Uruguay
BRAZIL
B
razil is a vast country, bursting at the seams with enticements for every kind of traveller – from world-famous beaches, dense rainforests and diverse wildlife to dynamic cities and fun-loving locals who throw some of the greatest celebrations in the world.
This country boasts landscapes which range from the Amazon jungle and the world’s largest wetland area of the Pantanal to 4,000 miles of golden coastline. Equally beguiling is the country’s diverse cuisine, music and religions – the product of Brazil’s mixed Amerindian, European and African heritage. For many, Rio de Janeiro is the number one attraction. A vibrant capital fuelled by endless energy and caipirinhas, it’s home to the unbeatable setting of sweeping beaches backed by forested, granite peaks. The city itself is fringed by Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, overlooked by the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain, and protected by the hump of Sugarloaf Mountain.
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Although you can visit the Amazon from several South American countries, Brazil’s Amazon is not only a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, but also provides exceptional opportunity to experience and learn about the traditional cultures of the people who have resided in the forest for generations. Another key highlight for visitors is the world-famous Iguaçu Falls, which thunder and crash over the border with Argentina.
...dense rainforests and diverse wildlife to dynamic cities
Top Tips • • • • •
Let yourself fall in love with Rio’s lively Cariocas Enjoy turquoise tropical waters on Brazil’s Emerald Coast Take in Iguaçu Falls by helicopter or a speed boat ride Explore the Amazon rainforest by dugout canoe Experience the vibrant AfroBrazilian culture in Salvador
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO Brazil can be visited all year round. Rio is hotter and wetter between November and March but is pleasant in other months. The Amazon is hot and humid all year round. GETTING THERE British Airways and LATAM operate direct services to São Paulo. British Airways also has a direct service to Rio de Janeiro. VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Brazil. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Brazil. However, if you have visited Peru, Bolivia or Venezuela in a recent period prior to entering Brazil, then you must have a yellow fever certificate. Precautions against malaria and yellow fever, if travelling to the Amazon, are suggested, but check with your GP.
Iguaçu Falls
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Rio de Janeiro
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro
It’s not until you have taken the cog train ride up Corcovado Mountain to the great statue of Christ the Redeemer that you can fully appreciate the beauty of Rio’s setting, with undulating mountains and rainforest broken up by stark expanses of bare rock forming one of the most beautiful backdrops in the world. The panorama of beaches, mountains, islands, sea and bays is unforgettable. Ride the cable car to the summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain, stroll along the legendary beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema or Leblon, listen to the soothing tones of some bossa
nova music and enjoy a typical feijoada (bean stew) dish washed down with a caipirinha. Both by night and by day, Rio is a thrumming and exciting city, and it won’t take you long to understand why it is often called ciudad maravilhosa, the ‘marvellous city’. Abutting Tijuca Rainforest, the largest urban forest in the world, Rio is truly a city of wonders from where it’s easy to venture out into wild Atlantic jungle.
Belmond Copacabana Palace | This glamorous
Miramar Hotel by Windsor | Each of the Miramar’s
the rich and famous since its Art
of modern amenities, while the
Belmond landmark has welcomed
200 rooms and suites features a host
Deco doors opened in 1923. The
hotel’s exceptional beach service
239 rooms and suites are luxurious, with many offering spectacular
views of Copacabana beach. The hotel’s bar and restaurants offer incredible food and drink.
rooms and ocean-facing suites. The
all individually designed and very
with bar, has stunning views of
Corcovado and Christ the Redeem-
er. The delicious restaurant, La Finestra, has great sea views, and Bar Limone serves local cocktails and ice-cold beers.
RAINBOW TOURS
the spectacular views.
from Copacabana beach, this hotel
beautiful rooftop pool, complete
|
towels and fresh fruit. Take
advantage of sumptuous Sá restaurant, or head to the rooftop bar to enjoy
Porto Bay Rio Internacional | This hotel has
117 modern and sophisticated
26
provides complimentary deckchairs,
Emiliano
| Just a few steps
boasts 90 rooms and suites that are spacious. Enjoy the rooftop infinity
pool and sample delicious meals and cocktails prepared from fresh, local
ingredients at the hotel’s two restaurants and bar.
BÚZIOS Búzios was once a simple fishing village, but since the 1960s it has become one of Brazil’s most elegant resorts, sometimes called ‘Brazil’s St Tropez’. It is comprised of three settlements on the same peninsula, which boasts more than 20 beautiful beaches for you to relax on. All three of the settlements that make up Búzios are vibrant, animated, and peppered with boutiques, upmarket restaurants, villas, bars and posh pousadas. Ossos, the oldest, is the most
Casas Brancas
| Elegant
attractive with a quaint harbour and a yacht club. Manguinhos is the most commercial of the three, and Armação, which lies between the two, is the heart of town and has the most to offer tourists. Búzios is the ideal destination for great food, time to soak up the sun, and to enjoy a relaxed few days before or after venturing into the wilder parts of Brazil.
Pousada Vila d’Este
|
Casas Brancas is nestled in the cooler
This romantic boutique hotel boasts
32 rooms, some with sea-view private
suites with garden or sea views. With
hills overlooking the bay. The hotel has terraces. The hotel’s refined, laid-back atmosphere make this an attractive base, not to mention its spa,
restaurants, beach loungers and spotless open spaces.
15 individually designed rooms and
easy access to the beach, an infinity pool and steam sauna, this is the
perfect spot to relax and later strike
out into Búzios to explore its lively bars and restaurants.
The Emerald Coast Brazil’s southern coast is characterised by pretty crescentshaped beaches, verdant rainforest backdrops, charming Portuguese colonial towns and quaint fishing villages. Just a few hours’ drive from Rio, the Emerald Coast offers many delights for travellers. The laid-back island of Ilha Grande is one of the country’s most famous beach retreats, and is also an ideal spot for hiking. Further along the coast, Paraty’s charming
Casa Turquesa
| Nestled
cobbled streets have not changed for centuries, and here the Portuguese colonial architecture is some of the best preserved in the country. The southernmost stretches of Brazil’s coast around the port of Florianópolis and on the island of Santa Catarina offer some spectacular activities such as surfing and whale-watching between July and November.
Pousada Picinguaba
|
in historic Paraty, Casa Turquesa
Situated in the centre of the Serra
townhouse. Just nine beautiful
the ideal place to escape to the
occupies a restored 18th-century rooms decorated in bright tropical hues guarantee an intimate,
personalised experience. Wander
the central courtyard and garden, or take a dip in the hotel’s plunge pool.
do Mar National Park, this hotel is
beach. The 10 rooms overlook the sea and guests can venture out to
the natural springs, to the beach, or
relax by the swimming pool and enjoy drinks at the pool bar. CALL US ON 020 7666 1260
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27
The Amazon Rainforest Covering a large part of the South American continent, the Amazon is the world’s largest rainforest and is home to over 300 indigenous tribes. The Amazon River and its tributaries make up the largest water system on the planet, and have created a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The main Brazilian gateway to this lush forest region is the city of Manaus. From here, you can travel by boat to a rainforest
Amazon Eco-Park Jungle Lodge | This is not only
suites, Anavilhanas offers boutique
monkey rehabilitation centre. Each
first-rate service. The lodge follows
of the 64 rooms has a veranda, and from the lodge guests can hike
jungle trails, relax on the private beach, undertake various excursions or cool down in the natural pools.
The Pantanal The Pantanal is a vast floodplain, home to the world’s largest nature reserve and one of the best places in Brazil to see wildlife including the famous and elusive jaguar. As an ecosystem it is very different to the rainforest, and so makes a wonderful addition to a wildlife trip. The region has more open spaces and far fewer trees, so it is much easier to spot the abundant fauna than in the dense undergrowth of the jungle. |
RAINBOW TOURS
Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge | With just 20 exclusive
a jungle lodge but also a scientific
and educational centre with its own
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lodge or board a cruise boat to float gently down the Amazon or Negro Rivers with the opportunity to take daily excursions in smaller boats to explore the dense vegetation. Where the rivers meet, you can see the unusual sight of the two running side by side without the waters merging. Spot colourful toucans, parrots, butterflies and pink dolphins; and after dark, look for caiman and a host of nocturnal animals.
accommodation combined with
low-impact principles and ensures
that tourist activities are responsibly
managed and are in harmony with the local community.
Giant anteater
Comfortable lodges such as Caiman or Rio Mutum put you in the middle of life in the Pantanal, where wily jaguars lurk amongst the trees and Giant anteaters roam the grasslands. Hike or horse ride along narrow trails, or perhaps take a boat through pristine rivers and lakes. Whatever you decide to do in the Pantanal, you will be faced with the astonishing biodiversity of this unique region.
Lençóis Maranhenses & the North East One of Brazil’s best-kept secrets, the north east is a region of dramatic scenery and unforgettable adventures. Rainbow recommends travelling along the ‘Route of Emotions’ between vibrant Fortaleza and historic São Luis to take as much in as possible. While here, head to Jericoacoara for unbeatable coastal views, excellent restaurants and a lively atmosphere. It’s the dunes of Parque Nacional Lençóis Maranhenses that are the real highlight, though. Here, sweeping white sand dunes
Essenza Hotel
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
swirl across the landscape, with slender turquoise pools breaking up the paleness. It is a sight unlike anything else on Earth. This 383,000-hectare national park lies just outside the Amazon Basin, and during its regular wet season it receives 300 times more rainfall than the Sahara Desert. May to September is the best time to head for Lençóis Maranhenses, when the weather is warm and the lagoons are still full.
Zorah Beach Hotel
| Essenza
|
Hotel is a boutique beach hideaway
The Zorah Beach Hotel has a classic
At Essenza, the focus is on
breaking design trends. The 16
in Jericoacoara with 30 stylish suites.
beach cabin feel despite expertly
indulgence. Then there’s the spa,
suites, five bungalows and one villa
the swim-up bar in the divine
swimming pool, and the enticing
bistro. Friendly staff and top-notch service round off the luxe experience.
all boast their own hot tub and
four-poster bed. There’s a highly
regarded restaurant, lounge areas and pool cabanas to ensure ultimate holiday bliss.
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29
Iguaçu Falls Iguaçu Falls are one of South America’s most impressive natural wonders, crashing over the cliffs at the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Eleanor Roosevelt reportedly exclaimed “Poor Niagara!” upon seeing Iguaçu for the first time. With 275 separate waterfalls, including the roaring Devil’s Throat, the thunderous force of the falls is a truly dramatic sight.
Wish Resort
Keep an eye out for the rainbows that wink in and out of existence in the spray, and of course for the incredible wildlife that might be spotted in the dense jungle around the falls: coatis, toucans, colourful birds and butterflies. Enjoy incredible views of the falls as you explore the rainforest, scamper across elevated walkways and even take close-up boat trips to feel the spray in your face.
Belmond Das Cataratas |
| This large
hotel boasts extensive grounds –
This classic Belmond hotel is the
along with two large swimming
National Park and boasts exclusive
including a nine-hole golf course –
only hotel located within Iguaçu
pools, a gym, three restaurants and
access to the falls. Guests can go on
a bar. Rooms are dotted around the soft furnishings and wooden décor.
grounds, all elegantly styled with
jungle treks and lounge by the pool beautiful rooms or suites.
before retiring to one of the hotel’s
Salvador de Bahia Once the capital of Portugal’s ‘New World’ colony, vibrant Salvador de Bahia is known for its Afro-Brazilian culture, tropical coastline, and Portuguese colonial charm. Wander through atmospheric cobbled streets, visit magnificent Baroque churches and fascinating art museums, and learn how to cook Bahian dishes. Music is everywhere, and if you’re interested in capoeira this is the place to take lessons – where it all began.
Tivoli Eco Resort, Praia do Forte | This resort is built
pousada overlooks the colourful
environment. The hotel has 297
district. The 17 rooms are full of
simply, in harmony with the local
attractive rooms, all decorated in natural shades, many with a
sea-facing balcony. The hotel’s
three restaurants offer dishes inspired by local Bahian cuisine as well as top-quality international food. 30
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The restored historic centre, Pelourinho, is the city’s crown jewel with its superb colonial buildings and hotels. Salvador looks out on to the striking Todos os Santos Bay, and the city is close to some beautiful beaches on the 152-mile stretch of coast that runs to the north, including Praia do Forte. The north eastern state of Bahia is home to some of Brazil’s best beaches and enjoys year-round sunshine.
Villa Bahia
| This unique
façades of the historic Pelourinho original character and the hotel operates on a policy of local
participation and sustainable
practices, particularly evident in the wonderful restaurant.
Classic Brazil
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro
Suggested Itinerary
Explore the best of Brazil’s cultural and natural highlights with this itinerary. Feel the buzz in iconic Rio de Janeiro with its stunning surroundings and amazing beaches, wonder at the awe-inspiring Iguaçu Falls, and experience the heat and magic of the Amazon Rainforest. Complete your holiday with a stay in the charming, historic city of Salvador and its UNESCO World Heritage centre. Day 1 Fly to Rio de Janeiro | Depart the UK on
Days 7-8 The Amazon | Stay in a comfortable
the evening, you will be met and transferred to
sunrise or sunset tours, when the rainforest
your flight to Rio de Janeiro. Upon your arrival in your hotel.
Day 2 Rio de Janeiro | Today enjoy a private tour around two of Rio’s most iconic sites. Take the Swiss cogwheel train up Corcovado Mountain,
home to the famed Christ the Redeemer, and ride the cable car to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain. The views over the city are unparalleled.
Day 3 Rio de Janeiro | Take advantage of a
day at leisure to either relax on the beautiful Rio beaches, or arrange further local sightseeing.
The botanical gardens and Tijuca Rainforest are well worth a visit, and don’t miss trying the local ‘feijoada’ dish!
Day 4 Rio to Iguaçu | Fly to Iguaçu Falls and
visit the Brazilian side upon arrival, using the long paved walkway through the lush forest to catch a glimpse of the Argentine side. Marvel at the
thunderous roar of the largest waterfall system in the world, and look out for incredible local wildlife. Day 5 Iguaçu | On a private excursion, explore
the Argentine side of the falls. While here, take in
rainforest lodge and enjoy excursions such a is particularly active, a visit to a native village, dugout canoe trips and jungle treks with an expert naturalist guide.
Day 9 Amazon to Salvador de Bahia | Fly to
Salvador on the coast. Overlooking All Saint’s Bay, this city is one of the most exotic in Brazil; a place where Latin and African cultures come together. Hear samba music filling the streets, and enjoy your time in the historic Pelhourinho district.
Day 10 Salvador de Bahia | Enjoy a guided tour of this vibrant city and explore the Pelourinho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Formerly a
Portuguese fortified city, this area boasts some
of the most important colonial architecture in the Americas.
Day 11 Fly to the UK | Transfer to the airport for the overnight flight back to the UK. Alternatively, we can extend your trip by a few days to Praia do
Forte, a beautiful beach village only one hour and a half from Salvador.
the vistas from a variety of viewpoints, including the astonishing Devil’s Throat. A boat trip can also be arranged to the base of the falls.
Day 6 Iguaçu to Manaus | Take an early flight to Manaus via São Paulo or Brasilia (flight schedule
dependent). Overnight in Manaus, the gateway to the Brazilian Amazon.
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31
Colombia
Ecuador
Pacaya Samiria National Park
Chiclayo
Iquitos
Brazil
Kuelap
Peru Puerto Maldonado
Machu Picchu Lima Sacred Valley
Cuzco Ica Nazca
Colca Canyon
Bolivia Puno
Arequipa
PERU
W
hilst Machu Picchu is Peru’s defining image, this welcoming South American country offers visitors so much more. Natural wonders and rich cultures abound, blending perfectly to create rewarding and unforgettable travel experiences. Lost to the outside world until it was rediscovered by American Hiram Bingham in 1911, Machu Picchu is now one of South America’s most sought-after highlights and recognised as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This terraced Inca citadel, surrounded by lofty peaks, is a remarkable feat of engineering. It is most easily reached from Cuzco, the former capital of the Inca empire. Between Cuzco and Machu Picchu, travellers can find adventure in the Sacred Valley. It is home to white water rafting, zip-lining, numerous Inca archaeological sites, isolated Andean communities known for their weaving and colourful markets, and stunning mountain vistas.
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Paraguay
Chile
Argentina
According to Andean legend, Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is the birthplace of the sun. Cruise across the deep blue lake to visit pretty islands and meet traditional indigenous communities. Don’t miss whitewashed Arequipa with its backdrop of looming volcanoes, or the enigmatic Colca Canyon where you can spot condors gliding serenely on the thermals. Travellers searching for jungle adventure can head into the Amazon rainforest, opting to stay in comfortable jungle lodges or set sail along the river in search of diverse wildlife.
...Don’t miss whitewashed Arequipa with its backdrop of looming volcanoes, or the enigmatic Colca Canyon where you can spot condors gliding serenely on the thermals
Uruguay
Top Tips • • • • •
Climb Huayna Picchu for superb views of Machu Picchu Take a trip across Lake Titicaca in a reed boat Spot magnificent condors in the Colca Canyon Visit a local community in the Sacred Valley See giant river otter on a luxurious Amazon cruise
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO The best months to visit Peru are from April to October, although temperatures at night can be very cold at higher altitudes. The rainy season is between December and March. Lima’s climate is dry, though grey, throughout the year. The Amazon remains hot and humid all year round. GETTING THERE British Airways operates a direct service from London Gatwick to Lima. Other popular routes are with Avianca via Bogotá or LATAM via Madrid. GMT -5 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Peru. HEALTH Thera are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Peru. Precautions against malaria and yellow fever, if travelling to the Amazon, are suggested, but check with your GP. A yellow fever certificate will be required if you are entering from an infected country. Machu Picchu
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Lima & the Surrounds Located on the Pacific coast, Lima is a vibrant metropolis, home to exceptional museums, first-class restaurants and amazing architecture. Most visitors stay in upmarket Miraflores or bohemian Barranco. Lima is famous for food, and is one of only four worldwide cities to boast three of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Immerse yourself in the city’s colonial history at Casa Aliaga and explore pre-Columbian art at the Larco Museum. Don’t miss the San
boutique hotel in Barranco, the
11-storey, all-suite hotel success-
are beautifully decorated and have
fully combines the very best of
luxury accommodation with a warm welcome. Guests can enjoy a
delicious Peruvian-inspired meal at Tragaluz or the Observatory restaurant.
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Francisco Monastery, home to eerie underground catacombs, said to contain around 75,000 sets of remains. After exploring the city’s many charms, visitors are well-placed for a visit to the Nazca Lines, the famous, gigantic geoglyphs etched into the Nazca Desert for reasons we still don’t understand. Rainbow recommends staying in nearby Paracas before either climbing viewing towers or flying over the Lines to take in their sheer size and marvel at the unusual sight.
Belmond Miraflores Park | The Miraflores Park boasts breathtaking views out to sea. This
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Lima
Hotel B
| Hotel B is a stylish
artists’ district. The 17 guest rooms charming views. The restaurant and
bar serve excellent Peruvian cuisine, drinks, and ‘lonche’ (a local
traditional meal similar to English afternoon tea) in an informal atmosphere.
Cuzco Cuzco is not just the gateway to Machu Picchu, it is well worth a visit in its own right. It’s a striking Spanish colonial city built on Inca foundations and full of rewards for the curious traveller. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cuzco today is a thriving cultural delight, with local markets, museums and nearby Incan ruins to keep you busy for days. The main square – Plaza de Armas – is the centre point of the city. Flanked by the imposing cathedral and the ornate church of La Compañia de Jesus, this is a thriving spot and one you don’t want to miss. Cuzco is also home to the famous Inti Raymi, a reenactment of the Inca festival for the sun god Inti, that takes place on 24 June every year. During the celebrations, you can enjoy colourful costumes, music, laughter and the sharing of food.
Rainbow Recommends
Cuzco
Belmond Monasterio
This luxurious hotel was once a
monastery, and before even that an Inca palace stood on the site.
Combining centuries-old charm
with exceptional service, inspired restaurants and boutique rooms
and suites, this is a property that’s full of character.
Inkaterra La Casona
|
This boutique hotel is in the heart of Cuzco, offering an elegant fusion of
colonial and Inca styling. The striking 16th-century manor house has
been meticulously restored as a
spacious 11-suite luxury hotel, with
exceptional Relais & Châteaux service and the indulgent Yaku therapy room.
El Mercado
| Formerly a
Cuzco
marketplace, El Mercado uses the
•
breakfast room is open all day and
• • • •
Visit the temple of Koricancha, the most important temple in the Incan empire Tour the imposing cathedral Explore the bohemian neighbourhood of San Blas Marvel at the ruins of Sacsayhuaman Visit San Pedro market
market concept perfectly – the
the buffet-style dishes are cooked
on the spot using fresh ingredients. The 27 rooms and seven suites all
have striking interiors, and there’s a stylish bar/restaurant.
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THE Sacred Valley The Sacred Valley sits at a lower altitude than Cuzco and enjoys a mild climate, protected by its terraced mountains and accessed via a narrow road full of hairpin bends. Boasting picturesque villages and incredible Incan sites, there is a reason why this destination is high on many travellers’ hitlists. Formed by the Urubamba River, this attractive valley is fed by several tributary rivers that flow through gorges and narrow channels. The valley contains many fascinating archaeological remains such as the lofty Inca sites at Ollantaytambo, Chinchero and Pisac. These sites, together with vibrant markets, isolated villages and colonial towns, all combine to make this peaceful corner of the Andes something very special. Enjoy treks through the foothills and along the valley, or try horse riding, mountain biking or even river rafting if you’re after more active outdoor pursuits.
Rainbow Recommends
36
The Sacred Valley
Belmond Rio Sagrado
Situated on the banks of the Urubamba River surrounded by lush gardens, Belmond Rio Sagrado is a tranquil
Andean hideaway. El Heurto restaurant
uses fresh local ingredients, and guests can take advantage of the exceptional
spa or go for a dip in the refreshing swimming pool.
Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa
most established properties, and is still regarded as one of the best. With 43 individual ‘casitas’ (small houses), an outstanding spa, beautiful natural ideal spot to relax and re-energise.
gardens and delicious cuisine, this is the
Explora Sacred Valley
SACRED VALLEY • • • • •
Valley. Enjoy a daily programme of
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Sol y Luna is one of the Sacred Valley’s
Rooms at Explora Sacred Valley
Visit the Inca sites at Ollantaytambo and Pisac Haggle in traditional markets at Pisac and Chinchero Tour the astonishing salt terraces at Maras Horse ride along the valley Take to the Urubamba River in a raft
|
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combine simplicity with comfort and
offer spectacular views over the Sacred activities, sample excellent drinks at the bar, and savour superb meals that have
been carefully designed to combat altitude sickness.
Machu Picchu Occupied for only 100 years before being abandoned, Machu Picchu faded out of knowledge for all but those who lived locally. Once a great citadel of the Incas, it lay undisturbed for centuries, falling into ruin. Now, Machu Picchu is the most familiar icon of the Inca civilisation to most of the world. It receives thousands of visitors
Machu Picchu
a year and was declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a global poll in 2007. Whilst it can be visited as a day trip from Cuzco or the Sacred Valley, we recommend at least an overnight stay so that you have plenty of time to explore and admire this remarkable site. You can reach the citadel by a variety of hikes along the various Inca trails and by train.
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge | Belmond Sanctuary
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel | Located in
easy access to Machu Picchu from
12 acres of beautiful private tropical
Lodge offers guests exceptionally
Aguas Calientes, this hotel is set in
early morning to late afternoon,
gardens. This first-class boutique
when most of the day visitors
have left. The Tampu restaurant
and bar serves delicious Peruvian cuisine based on produce grown by the lodge.
property boasts 85 spacious
cottages. The Unu spa offers a wide
choice of treatments and there are two restaurants serving delicious international and Andean dishes.
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Northern Peru For those interested in history and archaeology, Northern Peru is a treasure trove that was once home to numerous ancient cultures, including the Inca, Chimú and Moche. Visitors will find countless fascinating sites to explore here, some of which have only been rediscovered in the last few decades. Near the city of Chiclayo, find the Túcume pyramids and the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Sipán. Head to Chachapoyas to visit the ruined citadel at Kuélap, or strike out to charming
Gocta Andes Lodge
Guest rooms at Gocta Andes Lodge
Trujillo, the gateway to the Chan Chan ruins and the sacred Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Find glorious beaches and a strong surfing culture at Mancora on the Pacific coast, or visit the Gocta Waterfall. One of the highest waterfalls in the world, this natural wonder is surrounded by cloud forest, home to amazing flora and fauna including the Andean cock-of-the-rock , hummingbirds, orchids and bromeliads.
Spa
DCO Suites Lounge & | A contemporary boutique
are spacious and feature
hotel with direct access to the beach
Falls. Explore the cloud forest and
real hideaway with oodles of simple
uninterrupted views of Gocta
the scenic Chachapoyas region
before luxuriating on the spacious
terraces, swimming or enjoying Andean cuisine from the kitchen.
and just seven rooms in total, this is a elegance. The spa, restaurant and two bars offer plenty of relaxation, and the
ocean-fresh seafood and morning coffees are a real treat for the palate.
The Peruvian Amazon No journey to Peru is really complete without a few days in the Amazon rainforest. The diversity of lush flora and fauna makes a vivid contrast to the sparser Andean highlands, and we think combining the two makes for a truly special trip. For those who yearn to travel along the mighty Amazon itself, Rainbow recommends a leisurely cruise on a luxury vessel from Iquitos in the north through the scenic Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.
Aria Amazon
| This luxury
Amazon cruise transports guests
some of the most luxurious lodge
river by water and on foot. The
35 private cabanas constructed from
award-winning ship Aria offers
three-, four- or seven-night cruises.
The 16 Aria suites are all spacious with generous panoramic windows. |
RAINBOW TOURS
Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica | This lodge offers
into a totally natural world where you explore remote places along the
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Alternatively, spend a couple of nights in a jungle lodge where there’s no end to the amazing experiences to be had. Set out in a dugout canoe to spot sloths and monkeys, or spend an evening exploring the jungle by torchlight. Discover the abundant wildlife that calls this magical place home as you traverse hanging walkways for a unique perspective from the rainforest canopy.
rooms in the Peruvian Amazon with just natural materials. With a screen porch
and hammocks, guests can enjoy the
sounds of the jungle from their room or take one of the included excursions.
Arequipa & Colca Canyon The attractive city of Arequipa lies in the shadow of El Misti Volcano. Many of the city’s buildings are built from the white volcanic rock, and the stunning result has earned Arequipa a nickname: ‘the White City’. Arequipa’s historic centre has a number of attractions including an impressive main square and the Santa Catalina Monastery. At an altitude of just under 2,400 metres, Arequipa provides a gradual introduction to Peru’s higher altitude attractions such as the Colca
Belmond Las Casitas
Canyon. About 160km from Arequipa, the Colca Canyon is a colourful valley dotted with picturesque, traditional villages that still use agricultural methods developed by the Incas. The main attraction, though, is the canyon itself. Twice the depth of the USA’s Grand Canyon, it is a truly spectacular sight. At the popular ‘Cruz del Condor’ viewpoint, you may get lucky in the early morning and see one of the canyon’s star residents: an Andean condor, gliding on the thermals.
Costa del Sol Arequipa
Beautifully-appointed casitas at this
After a day of exploring, retreat to the
amenities including indoor/outdoor
explore the sprawling landscaped
hotel are equipped with exceptional showers, fireplaces, underfloor
heating and private heated pools. The Curiña restaurant serves
Andean cuisine prepared with vegetables grown in the hotel’s organic bio-garden.
hotel’s spa and swimming pool, or
gardens. The 88 en-suite rooms are spacious and sophisticated. Explore Arequipa’s cuisine at Los Robles
restaurant, or enjoy a traditional Pisco cocktail at Los Montoneros bar.
Lake Titicaca At an altitude of 3,800m and straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. Contrasted against the snow-capped Andean backdrop, the lake’s intensely blue waters are a spectacular sight, and are home to many traditional indigenous communities and the
Libertador Lake Titicaca | Located on the private
all-suite lodge set on an exclusive
one of the leading hotels in the
Lake Titicaca. This contemporary-
island of Esteves, the Libertador is region. All 123 rooms have
spectacular views across the lake.
Dine at Los Uros restaurant, which
features local ingredients such as quinoa and lake trout, or unwind at the Taquile bar.
famous Uros floating reed islands. Arriving by rail is the best way to admire the scenery here – board either the Titicaca train from Cuzco or arrive on the Belmond Andean Explorer sleeper train to take in the breathtaking views of the Altiplano in style.
Titilaka
| Titilaka is an
private peninsula on the shores of
style lodge has wrap-around terraces, a heated outdoor swimming pool, cosy fireside dining and just 18
lake-view suites with heated floors and spa bathrooms.
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39
Treasures of Peru
Lake Titicaca
Suggested Itinerary
This itinerary encompasses the key highlights of Peru and is designed to showcase this incredible country’s vibrant culture, long history, and of course its stunning natural beauty. Sample delicious Peruvian cuisine, learn about Peru’s ancient cultures and more recent colonial past, and explore its natural wonders such as the Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca. Day 1 Fly to Lima | Upon arrival into Lima, you
and then set sail for the world-renowned, man-
and churches. There are also excursions on offer
sure you try the local food, as Lima is Latin
Day 7 Lake Titicaca to Cuzco | Pass through
Days 13-14 Fly to the UK | Use the morning
will be met and transferred to your hotel. Make
America’s culinary capital currently experiencing a gastronomic revolution.
Day 2 Lima to Arequipa | Enjoy a morning city
tour, starting with Lima’s historic downtown, and ending with the modern district of Miraflores. In the afternoon, fly to Arequipa and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Day 3 Arequipa | Take a guided tour of this stunning city, beginning at the main square, which is flanked by the ‘White City’s’ most
important buildings, including the cathedral.
Marvel at incredible views of the three volcanoes that overlook the city, and delve into the Santa Catalina convent, a city within the city.
Day 4 Arequipa to Colca Canyon | Head across the altiplano to Colca Canyon, passing some of Peru’s most spectacular scenery en route and
stopping at incredible local sites. After lunch stop
at two ethnic Collagua towns, then continue on to the Colca Valley where you will overnight.
Day 5 Colca Canyon to Lake Titicaca | This morning, enjoy amazing views from the Cruz del Condor lookout point and spot condors.
Continue across the altiplano to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca for two nights.
Day 6 Lake Titicaca | Visit Taquile Island, whose culture dates back to pre-Incan times. The locals still live according to the traditions and beliefs of their ancestors, and their colourful outfits and
textiles are world famous. Enjoy a traditional lunch
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made Uros islands.
astonishing Andean scenery as you journey on
the luxurious PeruRail Titicaca train from Puno to Cuzco. Highlights along the route include Urcos, where Incan gold was supposedly hidden from the Spanish conquistadors, and La Raya.
Day 8 Cuzco | Enjoy a half-day tour of Cuzco,
taking in the historic, pre-Columbian architecture, ornate Baroque churches and many well-
preserved colonial buildings sitting atop Inca
foundations. Visit the impressive Inca ruins at
Sacsayhuaman on the hillside overlooking the city.
Day 9 Cuzco to the Sacred Valley | En route to
the Sacred Valley, stop at Maras and Moray before heading to Ollantaytambo. Today, Ollantaytambo is considered the ‘only living Inca city’, with some parts inhabited continuously since the 13th century.
Day 10 Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu | Board the train at Ollantaytambo to travel to Aguas
Calientes, the ‘Gateway to Machu Picchu’ and on to the spectacular citadel itself. Learn about the site’s fascinating history on a guided tour.
Day 11 Machu Picchu to Cuzco | Take the
morning at leisure or use the time to return
to Machu Picchu at sunrise and perhaps climb
Huyana Picchu for views of the citadel. Return to Cuzco in the afternoon aboard the train.
Day 12 Cuzco | Spend the day at leisure in
Cuzco, exploring its markets, shops, museums
within the surrounding area.
in Cuzco to do any last-minute shopping in the markets and artisan shops. In the afternoon,
transfer to the airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
NB: This itinerary can also be done as a group tour, please speak to a Rainbow specialist for more information. Please speak to a Rainbow Specialist for more information.
Andes & Amazon Adventure
A woman in traditional attire in the Sacred Valley
Whilst in the Amazon, enjoy a cruise on the stunning Aria
Amazon. This innovative vessel was designed by Peruvian architect Jordi Puig and boasts beautiful and spacious
dining and lounging areas, as well as 16 luxurious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and endless views of the Amazon River. Perhaps best of all is the outdoor, river-
facing Jacuzzi, where you can soak and watch the jungle
Suggested Itinerary
drift majestically by.
Day 1 Fly to Cuzco | Overnight flight to Cuzco
Board the train once more to travel to Cuzco,
Day 11 Iquitos to Lima | Transfer to Iquitos and
Day 2 Cuzco to Sacred Valley | Upon arrival
Day 6 Cuzco | On a half-day city tour, immerse
Days 12-13 Fly to the UK | Enjoy a city tour
via Bogotá.
into Cuzco, you will be met and driven out to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the perfect location to drink in Peru’s astonishing history – and to acclimatise to the altitude!
Day 3 Sacred Valley | Today explore some of the highlights that this incredible valley has to
offer. Stop at the Racchi viewpoint and at Moray,
visit the nearby Maras salt flats, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the incredible archaeological complex at Ollantaytambo, the ‘only living Inca City’.
Day 4 Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu | Travel
by train to the spectacular Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Dramatically located between high
mountain peaks and where cloud-forest-covered mountains act as a backdrop, the famous site will not fail to take your breath away.
Day 5 Machu Picchu to Cuzco | Enjoy a morning exploring at leisure, perhaps climbing Huyana Picchu for incredible views of Machu Picchu.
considered the ‘Navel of the World’ by the Incas. yourself in the history of Cuzco, where Spanish colonial architecture collides with ancient Inca
traditions. Later head out of the city to the nearby Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman, where you can
marvel at the spectacular view of terracotta roofs overlooked by towering mountain peaks.
Day 7 Cuzco to Iquitos | Fly to Iquitos in the
then fly to Lima for your final night.
of Lima, ‘the City of the Kings’. Explore the
architectural highlights of both the older part of Lima and the modern districts, and linger over stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from the
Parque del Amor. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
Amazon jungle. Embark upon a 4-night cruise
on Aqua Expedition’s Aria Amazon cruiser. Please note, the Aria’s itinerary may change dependent on whether it’s high (Nov-Mar) or low (Jun-Oct) water season.
Days 8-10 Peruvian Amazon | Relax into life
aboard the Aria Amazon, a superbly comfortable
vessel where you will enjoy stunning jungle views, luxurious suites and delicious and innovative
Amazonian cuisine. Take expeditions to local
villages, watch out for wildlife, and stargaze from either the Aria’s deck or from one of the skiffs, floating on the ink-black waters.
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41
Brazil
Peru
Bolivia
Lake Titicaca La Paz
Santa Cruz Sucre Potosí Salar de Uyuni
Uyuni
Paraguay
Laguna Colorada Laguna Verde
Argentina Chile
BOLIVIA
S
traddling the Andes, landlocked Bolivia is a country that firmly deserves its place on bucket lists. Here you’ll find some of the most spectacular wildernesses in South America, from snow-capped mountain ranges down to the lush forests of the Amazon basin, and from sparkling lakes to great volcanoes and bright white salt flats. The extraordinary Salar de Uyuni salt flat is an incredible sight to behold. Perhaps Bolivia’s most iconic natural attraction, its crunchy, glistening expanse stretches well beyond the horizon. However, it is far from the only highlight that this country has to offer. Bolivia is also home to some of the most untouched areas of the Amazon rainforest, providing wildlifeseekers with unrivalled authentic jungle experiences. The colonial cities of Sucre and the silver-mining centre of Potosí are wellpreserved windows into the country’s history, and the Sunday market at the town of Tarabuco, not far from Sucre, is widely regarded as one of the most
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authentic in all of Latin America. Time your visit for one of the country’s many colourful festivals to truly experience some of the incredible traditionsUruguay and ancient religious beliefs held by the
indigenous peoples. Bolivia can be visited as a standalone country, but it can also be easily combined with Peru, Chile and Argentina.
...you’ll find some of the most spectacular wildernesses in South America
Top Tips • • • • •
Browse the famous Witches’ Market in La Paz Marvel at the world’s biggest salt flat at Uyuni Explore the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca See colonial gems in the white city of Sucre Visit the silver-mining town of Potosí
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO The best months to visit Bolivia are from April to November, although night-time temperatures can be very cold at higher altitude. The rainy season is between January and March. GETTING THERE There are no direct flights from the UK to Bolivia. The most popular routes are with Air Europa via Madrid, American Airlines via its US hubs or British Airways to Lima and then an onward flight to Bolivia. GMT -4 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Bolivia. However, if you are travelling via the USA, it will be necessary to obtain an ESTA. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Bolivia. Precautions against malaria and yellow fever, if travelling to the Amazon, are suggested, but check with your GP.
James and Chilean Flamingoes in Cañapa Lagoon
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La Paz La Paz is the administrative capital of Bolivia and boasts one of the most spectacular settings in the world. The homes of the city’s residents cling to the sides of a canyon gouged deep into the Altiplano, with Mount Illumani looming above the city. This is one of the highest cities in the world, sitting at an incredible 3,640m above sea level. Despite its mixture of colonial and modern culture, La Paz
retains the most indigenous flavour of all Latin American cities. There is little as rewarding as plunging into its vibrant streets. The clashing architectural styles, bustling markets, street marches and local vendors leave visitors with something exciting to discover around every corner. Rainbow particularly recommends taking the cable car for a bird’s-eye view of the metropolis.
La Casona Boutique Hotel | This hotel is located
+ Leisure It List 2017’, this luxurious
Atix
historic heart of La Paz. Rooms are
Sur district. Its 53 rooms are modern
within a colonial building in the
hotel is situated in the exclusive Zona
spacious and elegant, and some
and sophisticated. Ona restaurant
have private balconies overlooking
the downtown area. Buffet breakfast
is served in the restaurant and there are Mediterranean and regional dishes available in the evening.
| Featured on the ‘Travel
offers incredible Bolivian cuisine, and cocktails while looking out over the city.
at +591 bar you can enjoy delicious
Sucre & Potosí In the southern highlands of Bolivia lies the charming colonial city of Sucre. This is Bolivia’s official capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with many historic buildings dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Like Arequipa in Peru, Sucre is also called ‘The White City’, though in Sucre’s case this is due to its beautiful whitewashed walls. Potosí is a former silver mining town, founded after the Spanish conquistadors arrived to aid in the mining of the ‘cerro rico’ (Rich Hill). At the time, it was believed that enough silver lay within the hill to build a bridge to Spain. While this may not have been quite true, it was certainly enough to make Potosí the wealthiest city in the Americas for a time. While it has lost its former prominence, it is still a fascinating town to visit. 44
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Parador Santa Maria La Real | Parador Santa Maria La Real is a beautifully restored colonial
mansion in the heart of Sucre with
stunning original features and shady courtyards where you can enjoy a
drink or a leisurely breakfast. The 23
rooms and suites are elegantly furnished with period pieces and rich fabrics.
...history coats these cities like silver plating, visible everywhere you look...
Lake Titicaca High in the Andes, iconic Lake Titicaca straddles the border between Peru and Bolivia. Its electric blue waters are a stunning sight against the bright sky and snow-capped Andean mountains. Some of the lake’s 40 islands are home to Peru and Bolivia’s oldest peoples, where traditional ways of life still run strong. Sun Island, the largest of the
lake islands and on the Bolivian side, can be reached by catamaran from Copacabana. It is said to have been the home of the Inca god Inti and the birthplace of Inca culture. Many fascinating sites can still be visited on Sun Island including the Inca Steps, the sacred Puma Rock and the maze at Challapampa.
Posada del Inca Eco Lodge | Located at the top of
Huatajata on the shores of Lake
Inca Utama
colonial hacienda and is now a
that are spread through two buildings
beautiful Sun Island, this was once a
Titicaca, Inca Utama boasts 57 rooms
charming hotel with 20 rustic rooms
with white stone walls and terracotta
that are simple but comfortable.
The building retains the traditional
style, with a tiled roof and pretty gardens, and the restaurant serves hearty Andean food.
| Situated in
bricks and roofing. La Choza Nautica restaurant overlooks the lake whilst
Sumaj Untavi has folklore shows, gourmet food and a cosy bar.
Madidi National Park Madidi National Park is one of the most bio-diverse of all protected regions in the world. Located in north western Bolivia, its boundaries encompass snowy peaks, dry forest, savannah, pampas, and streaming tropical rainforest. Amazingly, 14% of all bird species in the world have been sighted in Madidi. There is world-leading eco-tourism work happening in the park, particularly community tourism, where initiatives such as lodges or tours are run by local people with all profits going straight back into the community. Delve into the heart of Madidi and discover the beauty and wonder that is waiting for you. Wake to the sound of birdsong, paddle across a lagoon, or take a hike through the trees and keep your eyes peeled for some of the incredible wildlife that dwells here: monkeys, caiman, turtles, or even pumas or jaguars.
Chalalan Ecolodge
|
Designed to perfectly blend in with its surroundings, Chalalan is
comfortable and secluded, offering
11 rooms and 3 cabins that all come with verandas or balconies and a
hammock. The bar is well-stocked
and the restaurant deliciously combines local, national and international cuisine.
...witness nature in all its variety and wonder...
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Salar de Uyuni
Salar de Uyuni salt flat
In south western Bolivia, discover the largest salt flat in the world when you journey to the Salar de Uyuni. This other-worldly sight will take your breath away as you travel by 4WD across a blinding white salt crust, broken up only by small islands dotted with giant cacti until it meets azure sky or great expanses of red desert. Visit mineral-rich lakes, including the bright red Laguna Colorada, or the remarkably turquoise Laguna Verde. If you’re there at the right time of year, you’ll also be able to enjoy the startling pink of
Luna Salada Hotel
| The
of the furniture is carved from local
and even a private chef who will
Twenty-three comfortable en-suite
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RAINBOW TOURS
|
Airstream Campers are equipped with
salt – as is the entire hotel, in fact.
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Airstream Campers
floors of Luna Salada are strewn
with colourful woven rugs and much
complete this unique experience.
flamingo flocks as they pick their way across the salt. Take in unforgettable views at the striking Isla del Pescado, a vast rocky outcrop clad in giant cacti. Discover the ancient Coquesa Mummies in caves along the slopes of the Tunupa Volcano, and wait for steam to erupt dramatically from nearby geysers.
rooms and a cosy restaurant
private bathrooms, electric blankets, prepare your evening meal before
retiring with your guide, leaving you to enjoy the incredible expanse of the
salt flat in total solitude. This is an incredible way to explore the salt flat.
Highlights of Bolivia
Salar de Uyuni salt flat
Suggested Itinerary
Bolivia is a country of amazing variety with its incredible landscapes, a strong indigenous culture and a lingering Spanish colonial presence. This tour encompasses this fascinating country’s key highlights, from the world-renowned Uyuni salt flat to high-altitude La Paz and Lake Titicaca, once believed to be the birthplace of the sun itself. Explore cities, historical sites, natural wonders and more in this jam-packed itinerary. Day 1 Fly to Santa Cruz | Take an overnight
Day 7 Uyuni to La Paz | Travel to La Paz by
Day 2 Santa Cruz | Arrive into Santa Cruz where
by Mount Illumani, is a stunning city boasting a
flight from the UK to Santa Cruz via Madrid.
you will be met and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, take a private tour of the city’s
highlights including the Cathedral of Santa Cruz and the centre of regional handicrafts.
Day 3 Santa Cruz to Sucre | In the morning fly to Sucre, Bolivia’s constitutional capital. Sucre is one of Bolivia’s most charming cities, with
cobblestone streets, picturesque white-walled buildings and a wealth of colonial architecture.
Day 4 Sucre | Today explore Sucre on a private half-day tour. Discover Sucre’s beautiful mix of local architecture and colonial influences, and visit many fascinating buildings such as the Indigenous Art Museum and the Recoleta.
Day 5 Sucre to Potosí to Uyuni | Strike out for the famous Uyuni salt flat, stopping en route at Potosí. This colonial city was once one of the
wealthiest cities in the Americas, and its history is visible everywhere, but mostly in the looming
‘cerro rico’ (rich hill) from which its famous silver was mined. Spend the next two nights in a salt hotel on the edge of the salt flat.
Day 6 Salar de Uyuni | Enjoy discovering
the incredible Uyuni salt flat, made of surreal
pentagons of white salt extending as far as the
plane. La Paz, clinging to a canyon overlooked
mix of architectural styles, bustling markets and street vendors with something to see on every corner.
Day 8 La Paz to Lake Titicaca | Transfer to Lake Titicaca and set off on a hydrofoil cruise around the lake’s top sites, including the Sun and Moon Islands with their Inca remains and the Andean Roots Eco-Village in Huatajata. In the evening
visit the observatory to learn about the Southern constellations and Aymara cosmos.
Day 9 Lake Titicaca to La Paz | Travel overland across the high altiplano back to La Paz. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to peruse the city’s
handicraft markets, wander its colonial centre and dine in one of its many incredible restaurants.
Day 10 La Paz | Take a half-day tour around the
indigenous, modern and colonial areas of the city. Stop off at the famous witches’ market, visit the Moon Valley and its lunar landscapes, and finally ride the cable car for a bird’s-eye view of this dramatically-located city.
Days 11-12 Fly to the UK | Board a domestic
flight to Santa Cruz, where you will connect on to your overnight flight back to the UK.
eye can see. Visit local points of interest such as
the Coquesa Mummies and the cacti-clad island of Incahuasi.
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Colombia
Galapagos Islands
Otavalo Quito
Ecuador Guayaquil
The Amazon Coca
Avenue of the Volcanoes
Cuenca
Peru
Brazil
ECUADOR
T
ucked into the west coast of South America between Peru and Colombia, compact Ecuador is one of the smallest countries on the continent. Not held back by its limited size, however, this country is filled to bursting point with colonial heritage, indigenous traditions and amazing flora and fauna. Though most famous for its off-shore island archipelago, the Galapagos, mainland Ecuador boasts plenty of attractions in its dramatic and beautiful landscapes. It consists of three regions: the tropical and humid coastal and Amazon areas, and the fresh, temperate highlands.
Quito, Ecuador’s capital, lies in a valley and is overlooked by Pichincha Volcano. Its historic centre features beautifully restored mansions, ornate churches, cobblestone streets and picturesque plazas. One of the city’s best-known attractions, the Middle of the World Equator Monument, can be reached from here.
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A few hours north, the small town of Otavalo is home to traditional handicraft markets selling ceramics, baskets, paintings and leatherware produced by local villages in this area of verdant valleys and emerald lakes. South of the capital, a popular route for visitors is to travel down the Avenue of the Volcanoes to reach Cotopaxi National Park, before riding the Devil’s Nose railway along a series of steep switchbacks. Combine the UNESCOlisted colonial town of Cuenca – home of the Panama hat – with explorations of Ingapirca archaeological site and Cajas National Park.
...filled to bursting point with colonial heritage
Bo
Top Tips • • • • •
Explore Quito’s UNESCO World Heritage centre Haggle in Otavalo’s colourful markets Stay in a community-run Amazon eco-lodge Take the Tren Crucero from Quito to Guayaquil Soak up the superb colonial architecture in Cuenca
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO Ecuador can be visited all year round. There are many microclimates within Ecuador and weather variations are usually the result of regional differences. Being so close to the equator, Quito has no major temperature fluctuations. Temperatures at night become very cold at higher altitudes. Guayaquil on the coast, along with the interior of the Amazon, remains hot and humid all year round. GETTING THERE There are no direct flights from the UK to Ecuador. The most popular routes are flying with Avianca via Bogotá or LATAM via Madrid. GMT -5 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Ecuador. However, if you are travelling via the USA, it will be necessary to obtain an ESTA.
Cotopaxi Volcano
HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Ecuador. Precautions against malaria and yellow fever, if travelling to the Amazon, are suggested, but check with your GP.
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Quito Ecuador’s lofty capital lies in a narrow valley 2,850m above sea level, in the shadow of Pichincha Volcano. The snow-capped peak dominates the city skyline and provides beautiful views. Sometimes seen merely as a stepping stone to rural Ecuador or the Galapagos, Quito is in fact a worthy destination in its own right. Considerable restoration work has been undertaken in recent years, making Quito’s historical colonial centre – a
Casa Gangotena
UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978 – a joy to explore on foot. Many buildings date from the 17th century and showcase the beautiful Baroque style. Whether you’re flying off to the Galapagos, heading up into the cloud forests around Papallacta, Mindo and Maquipucuna, or delving into the Amazon, we recommend a night or two in Quito to explore this beautiful city and enjoy its sights.
Illa Experience Hotel
| This
hotel is set in a pretty restored
Named in Time magazine’s ‘World’s
the historic plaza San Francisco.
is a boutique hotel that strives to
mansion in the heart of Quito, on
Greatest Places 2018’, Illa Experience
Casa Gangotena boasts 31 stylish
immerse guests in Ecuadorian culture.
rooms and suites with plush
furnishings. Traditional Ecuadorian
cuisine is served in the hotel’s restaurant.
|
Tasteful rooms and suites look out on to beautiful city views, and each floor
of the hotel is inspired by a different period in Ecuador’s history.
Otavalo Otavalo is just a few hours’ drive north of Quito, and is rightly famous for its vibrant traditional market, full of life and colour. Browse for traditional textiles and don’t forget to pick up a worldfamous Panama hat. Otavalo is the artistic epicentre of Ecuador, where artisans and weavers from the region come together to sell their wares in the shadow of Imbabura Volcano.
Hacienda Zuleta
Venture out into the surrounding countryside and explore local communities, see artisans at work, and stay in beautifully restored colonial haciendas where you’ll get a taste of authentic rural life and will enjoy warm hospitality and exceptional local cuisine. The area around Otavalo is also where roses, one of Ecuador’s biggest exports, are grown. Enjoy a tour of a rose farm and learn about the importance of roses in the local economy.
Hacienda Cusin
|
beautiful Hacienda Cusin, attentive staff
bedrooms is unique, reflecting the
comfortable rooms and stunning views
family-run farm. Each of the 15
and beautiful gardens combine with
colonial building’s history through
to produce a truly special hotel. Choose
antiques and embroideries. The
farm produces a wealth of organic
food, and guests can enjoy home-cooked meals. 50
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| At the
Hacienda Zuleta is a peaceful
from garden cottages, suites and salons and locally crafted Andean products.
for your stay, all furnished with antiques
The Avenue of the Volcanoes Stretching south from Quito for 325km, the Avenue of the Volcanoes runs between 19 volcanoes on one side and 20 on the other. One of the volcanoes is Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano in the world at 5,987m. The region offers visitors many attractions such as colourful local markets, Inca ruins, and beautiful hacienda accommodation. Pretty Riobamba is worth a
visit, and the vibrant town of Alausí is a must for history lovers – most houses there are over 100 years old. Don’t miss the Devil’s Nose, a hair-raising section of railway that connects Alausí to Sibambe. The train winds back and forth on itself, navigating tight bends as it drops some 500m over just 12km down an almost perpendicular mountainside.
Tren Crucero
| Take the Tren Crucero and stop each night in
comfortable accommodation, drinking in the stunning peaks and views
along the way. Lovingly restored (and fully electric-diesel) antique steam
locomotives pull luxurious passenger cars, limited to just 50 passengers, to ensure a personalised and intimate experience. Make use of the train’s bar,
observation lounges and open-air terrace to complete this unique experience. The Tren Crucero runs between Quito and Guayaquil, and vice versa.
Cuenca The striking city of Cuenca was founded in 1557 on the site of an old Inca and Cañari settlement, and the city retains much of its old colonial feel. This regional capital has a historic centre with cobblestone streets, flower-filled plazas and churches dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. Many travellers choose to head out to Cajas National Park, located north west of the city, where you can hike or fish among the
Santa Lucia
| Unique
Santa Lucia sits in one of Cuenca’s
Mansión Alcázar Cuenca | This beautiful 19th-
most historic buildings. Renovated
century colonial house has just 11
hotel’s 20 rooms sit around a
and tastefully decorated with antique
with all modern conveniences, the
beautiful central patio, which served most famous films!
breathtaking landscapes. Numerous glacial lakes can be found amongst the stunning scenery at 10,000ft, and Cajas is a great destination for walkers or birders. Not far from Cuenca lies the Inca site of Ingapirca , some of the most significant Inca ruins in the country. This large site has a deep and fascinating history and is well worth a day trip.
as a backdrop for one of Ecuador’s
rooms and three suites, each individually furniture and artworks. The Casa Alonso restaurant serves typical Ecuadorian
cuisine and the elegant Le Bar is a pleasant venue for cocktails.
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Squirrel monkey, Amazon Rainforest
Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest & Cloud Forest A few hours by road to the west of Quito, you’ll find lush cloud La Selva Amazon Eco forest reserves where you can hike along pristine trails, bathe Lodge | This award-winning under waterfalls and keep your eyes peeled for hundreds of bird eco-lodge offers guests an authentic species. One of the richest wildlife hot spots on the planet, this experience in the heart of the Amazon. forest is home to iconic species such as howler monkeys, sloths, The19 small but comfortable cabanas and jaguars. are constructed entirely from rainforest To the east of Quito and the Andes lie the tropical lowlands of El materials. Guests can enjoy excursions Oriente, an unspoiled Amazonian rainforest wilderness. In recent as well as the large dining area and open-air bar with panoramic views of the lake. times, a number of wildlife lodges have been carefully developed in the Amazon to help visitors seek out the multitude of fauna Mashpi Lodge | Environmenthat exists here. The highly knowledgeable local naturalists can tally-conscious Mashpi Lodge is a add enormously to your understanding of these beautiful and magical retreat hidden inside a threatened wildlife zones. 1,200-hectare private reserve in the All the lodges that Rainbow use here are either owned by or Ecuadorian cloud forest with 22 provide direct benefits to their local indigenous communities, and well-furnished rooms and suites. Meals each of them promises a unique and unforgettable experience. are served in the lofty restaurant and
Rainbow Recommends Ecuador’s Amazon RAINFOREST & Cloud Forest • • • • 52
|
Head out on a night walk and witness the forest come alive Take the time to talk one-on-one with your guides to hear fascinating insights and stories Keep a sharp eye out – most wildlife is extremely difficult to spot! Swim beneath mysterious waterfalls RAINBOW TOURS
showcase the best of local cuisine.
Anakonda Amazon River Cruise | The Anakonda Cruise vessel boasts unbeatable sophistication and style. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer
continual river and rainforest views, as do the observation deck and Jacuzzi. Keep an eye out for wildlife before
retiring to a modern, spacious suite with walk-in showers and a Jacuzzi bathtub.
Ecuador Explorer
The Devil’s Nose
Suggested Itinerary
This itinerary is perfect for travellers eager to get beneath the skin of Ecuador. Offering a gentle introduction to Ecuadorian culture and landscapes, this itinerary will get you up close and personal with colourful markets, colonial architecture and indigenous people, along with stunning Andes peaks, volcanoes, lakes and lush green cloud forest. Day 1 Fly to Quito | Depart the UK on your
Day 7 Cotopaxi to Riobamba | En route to
Days 11-12 Fly to the UK | Spend the morning
capital of Quito.
Saquisili, Pujili, Zumbahua or Latacunga (market
flight back to the UK.
overnight flight via Bogotá to the Ecuadorian Day 2 Quito | Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the old
town. This UNESCO World Heritage area boasts cobbled streets, picturesque plazas flanked with colonial architecture, and ornate churches.
Day 3 Quito | Explore the highlights of colonial Quito on a private tour. The city has one of
the best preserved colonial centres in South America. During the tour, you will visit the El
Panecillo lookout point for fantastic views of the
city and the encircling volcanoes and mountains. Day 4 Quito to Otavalo | Drive to Otavalo
and spend the next two nights at a traditional
hacienda. Otavalo and the surrounding region feature soaring mountain landscapes, high
Andean peaks, shimmering lakes and traditional villages.
Day 5 Otavalo | Browse the Indian market in
Otavalo, famous for its craftwork. Later stop in
local handicraft workshops in Agato and Peguche. After lunch, visit the Cotacachi-Cayapas
ecological reserve and gaze at the deep blue
Cuicocha lagoon. Later, head to the colonial town of Cotacachi, famous for its leatherwork.
Day 6 Otavalo to Cotopaxi | Journey to
Cotopaxi National Park. Weather permitting, you will be able to see the snow-capped summits
of the Cotopaxi and Antisana volcanoes. Learn about the history of the area before setting
off to visit Lake Limpiopungo and explore the
Riobamba, visit the Indian market towns of either day dependent). Marvel at the mysterious green
at leisure. Transfer to the airport for the overnight
crater lake at Quilotoa volcano, then move on to
the art galleries in the community of Tigua, where you will meet a local artist.
Day 8 Riobamba to Ingapirca to Cuenca |
Today is the day for the so-called ‘most difficult train route in the world’. The route climbs up
steep slopes, rolls down into river valleys and negotiates a truly massive wall of rock called
the ‘Nariz del Diablo’ – the Devil’s Nose. In the
afternoon, drive south to Ingapirca, Ecuador’s
most famous Inca ruin, and later journey on to Cuenca.
Day 9 Cuenca | Cuenca is perhaps the prettiest
city in Ecuador, its magnificent skyline dominated by beautiful church domes. Walk along the
cobblestone streets and people-watch in the
town square, then admire the green valleys that surround the historic city.
Day 10 Cuenca to Cajas National Park to
Guayaquil | Wonder at the range of landscapes
in Cajas National Park, from cloud forest to rocky lunar swathes, and catch sight of a few of the
park’s more than 200 lakes. If you’re lucky you will
glimpse the wild llamas that were reintroduced to
the park in the late 1990s. The park’s other animal inhabitants, such as the spectacled bear, puma,
and tigrillo, are more elusive. Depart the park and move on to Guayaquil for your final night.
surrounding area on foot.
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Pinta Genovesa
Marchena Island Equator
Fernandina
Santiago
Bartolome North Seymour Baltra
Rabida Santa Cruz
Sante Fé
Isabela
Tortuga
San Cristobal Floreana Espanola
The Galapagos Islands
J
ust over 1,000 kilometres off Ecuador’s coast lies the Galapagos archipelago, one of the most important wildlife destinations in the world. The islands were famously visited by Sir Charles Darwin, who was inspired by the islands’ finches to pen his world-changing book, The Origin of Species. Made up of 19 islands, each with their own eco-system, the islands’ unparalleled beauty and remarkable wildlife makes them different from anywhere else on Earth. Isolated from the mainland over millennia and faced with survival amid the stark volcanic landscapes, endemic species of flora and fauna have evolved to become totally unique, perfectly adapted for life in the Galapagos. Plus, due to lack of human contact, many are fearless. Iconic residents include vibrant red and blue-footed boobies, the Galapagos sea lion and the iconic Galapagos giant tortoise.
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Visitors to San Cristobal Island are greeted by colonies of sea lions who love to laze on the pristine beaches, while a trip to Floreana Island will bring you face-to-face with flocks of pink flamingos. The Galapagos are also famous for their penguins, spotted around Fernandina Island, and marine iguanas, found all over the Galapagos.
The archipelago can be explored from the comfort of a ship. Alternatively land-based stays with day excursions are also possible.
...the islands’ unparalleled beauty and remarkable wildlife means they are like nowhere else on Earth
Top Tips • • • • •
Swim with sea lions and turtles Watch the courtship rituals of the waved albatross Walk with a giant tortoise on Santa Cruz Visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre Sip cocktails at sunset on your boat
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO The Galapagos Islands can be enjoyed all year round. Temperatures are warmer between January and May but there is a greater chance of rain. From late August to early October there is the risk of choppy seas and occasional sea mists that restrict visibility in the highlands. GETTING THERE There are no direct flights from the UK to the Galapagos. All journeys here will go via the Ecuadorian mainland, from either Guayaquil or Quito. GMT -5 hours VISAS The Galapagos Islands are part of Ecuador and no visas are required. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Sea Lions
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Galapagos Cruises The unspoilt Galapagos Islands boast stunning natural scenery and unique wildlife species seen nowhere else on Earth. One of the best ways to see how these species have evolved on the different islands is to take a cruise. We offer a full range of Galapagos cruises and can tailor-make them to suit your specific needs. The boats we feature on our Galapagos holidays range from those with a capacity of 16 passengers to a maximum of 100, with a variety of standards. A typical day aboard a cruise ship involves several shore excursions. Disembark your ship and board small Zodiac boats to head to land, experiencing several dry and wet landings.
Seaman Journey
Alya
| The
| One of the Galapagos’
Seaman Journey is a first-class
newest luxury catamarans, the Alya,
encompasses two excursions per day
comfortable cabins. Elegantly
superior catamaran. A typical day
accommodates 16 passengers in nine
with activity options including
decorated, the catamaran boasts
swimming, snorkelling, kayaking or
walking depending on the landing site.
spacious social areas, a library, a large sundeck, two bars and a jacuzzi.
Get up close to the unique Galapagos wildlife such as blue footed boobies, land
Itineraries aboard the Alya are either seven or three nights and combine hiking,
relax on the wonderful sun deck or visit the small library.
nied by an expert naturalist guide.
and marine iguanas, sea lions and penguins. Between excursions and activities,
Treasure of Galapagos
snorkelling, wildlife viewing, kayaking and visiting different beaches, all accompa-
Santa Cruz II
|
accommodates up to 90 guests in
spacious, bright cabins with private
There is a well-stocked library on
wide motor catamaran featuring
50 contemporary and chic cabins.
balconies and beautiful ocean views.
board as well as a gym, two jacuzzis,
Accommodating up to 16 guests in 9 cabins, the boat has a crew of 11
on board. There is a large sundeck area, ideal for al fresco dining and a
jacuzzi to relax in. Guests can also enjoy the air-conditioned lounge, dining room, bar or small library.
Natural Paradise
two lounges and plenty of outdoor
space. Dining on the Santa Cruz II is a
real treat. Indulge in the creative Ecuadorian and international cuisine
focusing heavily on seafood and locally grown organic fruit and vegetables.
La Pinta
mid-sized boat accommodating up
which caters for 16 passengers. It
nished cabins. Offering a relaxed yet
to 48 passengers in 24 well-fur-
boasts spacious indoor areas and
lavish expedition atmosphere, the
contemporary cabins, some of
which have private balconies. On the beautiful teak sundeck, you will find
a jacuzzi, spacious relaxation areas dotted with sun loungers and a space for al fresco dining. Explore the Galapagos Islands with the kayaks, snorkelling equipment and wetsuits that are provided on board.
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| La Pinta is a
| The
Natural Paradise is a luxury cruiser
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| Santa Cruz II
The Treasure of Galapagos is a stable,
ship’s facilities include an attractive bar and dining room where you can
enjoy tropical juices and sumptuous food. Additionally, La Pinta has a library,
sundeck, three inflatable landing crafts and a glass-bottomed boat, perfect for marine life viewing.
SIMPLY GALAPAGOS
Suggested Itinerary
The Galapagos Islands offer one of the best wildlife holidays in the world. This famous archipelago boasts magical volcanic landscapes, incredibly diverse and unique flora and fauna, and best of all you can design your perfect trip with ease. All the boats we use in the Galapagos offer a variety of trip lengths, from 3 nights to 14 nights, sizes and itineraries – the one listed here is just an example of the many our specialists can prepare for you. Day 1 Fly to Quito | Take an overnight flight
Day 6 Española Island | Spend a day discovering
Day 2 Quito | Upon arrival into Quito you will
Snorkel, swim or kayak in the stunning Gardner
from the UK to the Ecuadorian capital of Quito. be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the sights of Quito’s UNESCO World Heritage old
town, a picturesque area full of cobbled streets, charming plazas and colonial architecture.
Day 3 Quito | Take a private tour around Quito’s highlights. Visit old plazas and beautiful historical buildings, then tick off the El Panecillo lookout point, with its stunning views of the city. Later
drive out to the equator to stand with one foot in either hemisphere. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 4 Quito to San Cristóbal Island | Fly via Guayaquil to the Galapagos. Upon arrival into San Cristóbal, visit the Interpretation Centre
where you will learn about the islands’ geological,
natural and human history as well as conservation efforts. Later settle into your cabin aboard your
cruise vessel and meet the friendly crew, who will run through your itinerary for the next few days with you.
Day 5 San Cristóbal Island | This morning
visit La Galapaguera to view Giant Tortoises in a semi-natural habitat. See young tortoise in
breeding pens and learn about their history. In the afternoon explore Cerro Brujo. This protected bay was where Charles Darwin first set foot in
one of the Galapagos’ most beautiful islands.
Bay and keep an eye out for local birds and the
local sea lion colony. Move on to Suarez Point and witness its famous blowhole that spurts water up to 75m high.
Day 7 Floreana Island | Visit one of the largest lagoons in the archipelago at Cormorant Point. This is also one of the best places to spot
flamingos and features two contrasting beaches: green sand and ‘flour sand’. The bird life here is spectacular. This afternoon, enjoy panoramic vistas from Post Office Bay and Baroness Lookout.
Day 8 Santa Cruz Island to Guayaquil | Just outside the main town on Santa Cruz, Puerto
Ayora, is the Charles Darwin Centre. Here you can learn about the protection and conservation of
these astonishing islands and see their breeding
and rearing centre for young tortoises. After your visit to the centre, transfer to the airport for your flight to the mainland port city of Guayaquil.
Days 9-10 Fly to the UK | Take the morning at
leisure before your overnight flight back to the UK in the evening. Rainbow recommends a private
city tour or a visit to a nearby banana and cocoa plantation, both of which we can organise.
1835 and boasts a multitude of endemic wildlife. NB: Alternatively, we can offer land-based stays on the Galapagos with daily excursions or island hopping programmes. Please speak to a Rainbow specialist for more information.
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Providencia Island Santa Marta Tayrona National Park
Cartagena
Venezuela Medellin Coffee Region
Bogota Pereira
Colombia Brazil
Ecuador Peru
COLOMBIA
C
olombia’s capital, Bogotá, is nestled high in the Andes and has been dubbed ‘the Athens of the South’ for its thriving universities and libraries. But it’s historic Cartagena, on the Caribbean coast, that is the jewel in Colombia’s crown. Many of its colonial mansions have been restored and turned into boutique hotels, sophisticated restaurants and wine bars. On balmy evenings, stroll through the narrow streets or down the seafront alongside the locals to enjoy the city’s relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere. From Cartagena, you can reach Providencia Island, 750km from Colombia in the Caribbean Sea. This Colombian island is utterly idyllic, with coral sand beaches, coconut palms and mangrove forests. It’s a real hidden gem.
No visit to Colombia would be complete without a visit to the Coffee Region, an area characterised by rolling verdant hills, fertile valleys, coffee plantations and quaint towns. For city buffs, Medellín’s exciting history of transformation and regeneration makes it a rewarding destination to explore. 58
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Another of the country’s major highlights is Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean coast, where the spectacular forest-clad Sierra Nevada Mountains provide a picture-perfect backdrop to pristine white-sand beaches.
Paraguay
Chile
Argentina
...With lush green rainforests, an unspoiled Caribbean coastline, enigmatic ruins and a thriving coffee industry, Colombia is the perfect destination for the discerning traveller keen to step off the beaten track.
Uruguay
Top Tips • • • • •
Swim in the natural pools at Tayrona National Park Stroll through Cartagena’s old town with the locals Relax in a splendid hacienda in Colombia’s coffee triangle Fly to Providencia Island for picturesque coral beaches Learn about Medellín’s social transformation and urban regeneration.
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO Colombia has an equatorial climate and therefore doesn’t have dramatic seasonal changes, although rain is likely to occur at any time throughout the year. The best time to visit the country is from December through March when there is the least amount of rain. It tends to be cooler when visiting areas at altitude, such as Bogotá, and especially the coffee highlands. GETTING THERE Avianca fly direct from the UK to Bogotá. GMT -5 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Colombia. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Colombia.
Colombian woman in Cartagena
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BOGOTÁ & Villa de Leyva With the opening of so many new hotels, restaurants and shopping complexes, Bogotá has become an incredibly cosmopolitan city. In contrast, the Spanish colonial district of La Candelaria features pretty, old-fashioned courtyards and fine architecture. In La Candelaria you’ll find the renowned Gold Museum, where each corridor displays a different episode of Colombian history. Above the city is the sanctuary of Monserrate, accessible by cable car, which offers spectacular views. To the north, you’ll
find the incredible underground salt cathedral at Zipaquirá, and further afield lies the pretty town of Villa de Leyva. Villa de Leyva is home to beautiful whitewashed buildings, one of the Americas’ largest main plazas, and some of Colombia’s best-preserved architecture. Cobbled streets lead you to picture-perfect alleyways, and the town is often described as being ‘frozen in time’, still amazingly similar to how it looked when it was first founded by the Spanish.
Sofitel Bogotá Victoria Regia | The 97 rooms and five
hotel, with its 55 plush rooms, is
B.O.G. Hotel
contemporary. The Sofitel Bogotá
restaurants, shops and nightlife. The
suites of this hotel blend classic with
hotel’s La Leo Cochina Mestiza
exclusive Mediterranean-style
Basilic restaurant that uses local
ingredients, the Bibliotheque bar and a delectable wellness centre.
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RAINBOW TOURS
| B.O.G.
surrounded by Bogotá’s best
has incredible facilities, including an
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Villa de Leyva
restaurant is a highlight, as is the
swish lounge bar and pool terrace
next to the heated rooftop swimming pool, which offers incredible panoramic city views.
The Coffee Region Colombia boasts several main coffee production areas. One of these areas, where the mineral-rich volcanic soil and higher altitudes have combined to create an exceptional coffee-growing region, is known as the ‘Coffee Triangle’ and lies between Pereira, Armenia and Manizales. There are several delightful haciendas in this region where you can stay, learn about coffee production, and of course enjoy the
Casa San Carlos
sweeping highland views. The landscape is brilliantly green, with picturesque traditional towns dotted around the lush valleys. Whilst in the area don’t miss a visit to the Cocora Valley, home to the famous wax palms, the tallest palms in the world. This is a stunning national park full of rolling hills and cloud forests teeming with hummingbirds and orchids.
Hacienda Bambusa
| Casa
Hacienda Bambusa is a classic
swimming pool and hot tub) and the
(bamboo) with clay tiles. It has seven
over its lush gardens (complete with
two-storey hacienda built in guadua
surrounding farmland. Primarily
bedrooms with beautiful views, and
constructed out of bamboo, the uniquely decorated.
|
San Carlos features amazing views
property has 22 spacious rooms, all
some have balconies and hammocks. The hotel’s restaurant offers local
cuisine made with produce grown in the hacienda itself.
MEDELLÍN & the surrounds Located deep in the central Andean highlands, Medellín is Colombia’s second largest city and the country’s cultural hub. Nicknamed the ‘City of Eternal Spring’, Medellín enjoys a temperate climate and stunning views on all sides, courtesy of the mountain peaks that surround it. In Medellín you will see signs of its humble origins during the coffee boom of the 20th century, with crumbling colonial buildings that retain their timeless charm.
Patio del Mundo
| Patio
Medellín has gone through an incredible social transformation and regeneration and today is a modern and vibrant city with plenty to explore. Within the surrounding province, mountainous Antioquia, you’ll find the colourful town of Guatapé, the mysterious Stone of El Peñol, which rises dramatically out of the ground and can be climbed for amazing views, and the picturesque colonial city of Santa Fe de Antioquia.
Hotel Park 10
| Hotel
del Mundo beautifully blends French
Park 10 is perfectly situated in the El
rooms, it provides guests with an
commercial and financial centre of
and Colombian style. With just seven intimate experience. Some rooms feature jacuzzis, small patio areas
and even private terraces, and the
lush tropical garden is a calm oasis hidden away from the bustling city.
Poblado district, close to the Medellin. Offering four-star
accommodation, this hotel features all modern amenities in the guest rooms
in addition to two restaurants, a full-service spa and a health club. CALL US ON 020 7666 1260
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Cartagena & Tayrona Cartagena is Colombia’s ‘must-see’ destination. Founded in 1533, Cartagena soon became one of Spain’s richest Caribbean possessions. News of its wealth attracted unwelcome attention, and the city was fortified to try to repel many attacks. The old centre lies within the massive walls and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a treasure trove of narrow streets, Andalusian-style palaces and colonial houses with ornate balconies.
Casa San Agustin
| This
| The
tures, including in its beautiful guest
in the style of the houses inhabited
be found in the L-shaped pool, lined with green plants and white sun
loungers. Its restaurant, ALMA, is one of the leading haunts in Cartagena.
RAINBOW TOURS
The Eco Habs
cabins of the Eco Habs are
rooms, yet a slice of modernity can
|
Tayrona National Park lies north east of Cartagena along the Caribbean coast. It is easy to access and is one of Colombia’s most popular reserves. It is home to hundreds of species of birds, plants, and even sponges, and it is the only place in the world where the cotton-top tamarin is still found. Eco-tourism is encouraged, and activities include guided excursions such as hiking or horse riding in the forest, and of course relaxing on the idyllic, unspoilt beaches.
boutique hotel celebrates its historic
roots by carefully preserving old fea-
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Tayrona National Park
constructed using natural materials by the local indigenous tribe, the Tayrona. Perched on forest-clad
hills, the Eco Habs have magnificent
views over the Caribbean coast and are linked by wooden walkways.
Colours of Colombia
Cartagena
SMALL GROUP TOUR
Colombia is a stunning country full of awe-inspiring vistas, picturesque colonial towns, lush green coffee plantations and idyllic Caribbean beaches. With it building in popularity as a travel destination, we’re pleased to offer this itinerary that takes you around Colombia’s vibrant highlights, from buzzing Bogotá to the verdant Cocora Valley. This itinerary is also offered as a group tour; just get in touch with a Rainbow specialist to find out more. Day 1 Fly to Bogotá | Take an overnight flight
from bean to cup. Enjoy beautiful views, a
soak up the Caribbean atmosphere, enjoying
Day 2 Bogotá to Villa de Leyva | Upon arrival
Day 7 The Coffee Region | Spend the day in the
cocktails on rooftop bars. Alternatively, visit the
from the UK to Bogotá.
into Bogotá, you will be met and driven roughly
three hours north east to Villa de Leyva, one of
Colombia’s most charming towns. It is said to be
frozen in time, with its whitewashed buildings and dramatic backdrop of rolling green hills.
Day 3 Villa de Leyva | Enjoy a day exploring
Villa de Leyva, which definitely rewards those
travelling on foot. Visit the colonial art museum, the monastery, and other historical buildings
before heading to museum ‘El Fossil’. Browse Villa de Leyva’s many handicraft shops and savour the local cuisine.
Day 4 Villa de Leyva to Bogotá | En route
back to Bogotá, stop to explore Zipaquirá Salt
Cathedral, a huge and astonishing underground place of worship built entirely out of salt.
Afterwards continue on to Bogotá for a two-night stay.
Day 5 Bogotá | Today explore Bogotá’s historic centre, La Candelaria, with a guide. Visit many
of La Candelaria’s amazing historic attractions,
including the cathedral, the Botero Museum and the Gold Museum.
Day 6 Bogotá to the Coffee Region | Fly to Pereira, the gateway to the Coffee Region.
Colombia is the world’s third-largest producer of coffee, and you will be taken to a coffee
plantation to learn about the production process
delicious lunch, and of course a coffee tasting.
Cocora Valley, home to the tallest wax palm trees in the world. Visit the quaint towns of Salento
and Finlandia, picture-perfect settlements with cobblestone streets, paisa architecture, and lovely coffee shops.
Day 8 The Coffee Region to Medellín | En route to Medellín by road, stop at an orchid farm, which grows more than 6,000 orchids of 832 different species. Tour the grounds and learn about the
super-fresh seafood and sipping fruit juices and nearby Rosario Islands for sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Days 12-13 Fly to the UK | Spend the morning
at leisure. Transfer to the airport for the overnight flight back to the UK via Bogotá.
NB: Your trip can be extended with a stay in Tayrona National Park. Please speak to a Rainbow specialist for more information.
cultivation of avocados, citrus plants and native
trees while looking out for the 165 species of wild bird that can be seen. Continue on to Medellín. Day 9 Medellín | Take an exciting tour
around this city, which is rightly known for its incredibly successful social transformation
and regeneration. Visit downtown, with its 23
Botero sculptures, and explore some of the most famous neighbourhoods in the ‘City of Eternal Spring’.
Day 10 Medellín to Cartagena | Fly to
Cartagena on the Caribbean coast. Discover the beautifully restored historic centre, protected
by its walls, and full of colour thanks to the bright
paint used when the many colonial buildings were restored. Take in a panoramic view of the city and visit the handicraft markets of the Bovedas.
Day 11 Cartagena | Enjoy a day at leisure. We recommend exploring Cartagena on foot to
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Nicaragua
Tortuguero Liberia Arenal National Park
Tamarindo
La Fortuna Santa Elena
Monteverde National Park
Costa Rica San Jose Nicoya Peninsula
Manuel Antonio National Park
Panama Corcovado National Park Osa Peninsula
COSTA RICA
A
pproximately a quarter of Costa Rica’s land is protected by national parks and wildlife reserves. These protected areas encompass volcanoes, rainforests, tropical dry forests, mangroves, wetlands, coral reefs and beaches.
After exploring Costa Rica’s myriad natural wonders, you can relax on one of the beautiful golden sand beaches that line its Pacific coast, or soak in the natural hot springs that are dotted over the foothills of Arenal Volcano.
Many of its wonderfully secluded lodges and hotels have impeccable environmental and social credentials, and Costa Rica as a whole is a world leader in sustainable tourism. You can stay in exceptional comfort, enjoying incredible local cuisine and relaxing in infinity pools that brush up against lush rainforest, all the while knowing that you are doing your part for eco-tourism. Delve into the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and spot wildlife in the treetop canopies, or take a boat through the small waterways of Tortuguero National Park in search of alligators, iguanas and exotic birds. Tackle white-water rafting, whizz along zip-lines strung high above canyons, and seek out humpback whales and dolphins along the coastlines.
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...With its picture-perfect beaches, pristine rainforests, steaming hot springs and smouldering volcanoes, Costa Rica is a true natural paradise.
Top Tips • • • • •
Zip-line through the canopy in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Look for three-toed sloths in Manuel Antonio National Park Try to spot the Resplendent Quetzal Soak in Arenal’s hot springs Relax on Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific beaches
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and May. Central America has a long rainy season, although the characteristic of these months tends to be bright sunny mornings followed by afternoon showers. September and October can be quite rainy. On the coast and at lower altitudes, it is hot and humid throughout the year. GETTING THERE British Airways operates a direct service from London Gatwick. GMT -6 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Costa Rica.
Osa Peninsula
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San José & the Central Valley Costa Rica’s capital, San José, lies in the Central Valley and enjoys the valley’s protection, resulting in a milder and less humid climate than the coastal areas. It’s a popular entry point into Costa Rica, and it’s a great place to spend a night or two before venturing further into the country’s lush forests and national parks.
Grano de Oro
There are a number of attractions that are easy to reach from San José, including trips to Poás and Irazu Volcanoes, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, coffee plantations and gardens. Rainbow recommends staying out in the Central Valley to get back to nature. Be close to the region’s highlights and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Xandari
| This
| Xandari is a
100-year-old Victorian mansion has
beautiful collection of 24 unique villas
with 40 rooms and suites full of warmth
views of the Central Valley. Guests can
been lovingly restored to create a hotel
located on a 40-acre plantation with
and comfort. The rooftop garden
spend their time relaxing in the 125ft
terrace has loungers and two outdoor
Jacuzzis and the hotel’s restaurant, run
by a French chef, serves tropical Costa Rican and European dishes.
sunset pool, swimming in the lap
pools, visiting the farm animals or
walking through the 4km of private scenic trails and botanical gardens.
Tortuguero & the Caribbean Coast On Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, you’ll find Tortuguero National Park, one of the most important sites in the world for Green sea turtles, which make their way on to the brown sandy beaches between July and October every year to lay their eggs. The park’s territories protect not only the nesting beaches but also the surrounding forests, canals and lagoons. These areas are home to alligators, iguanas, howler monkeys, boa constrictors and incredible varieties of bird species. Everything in Tortuguero is done by water, so access depends on boats or aeroplanes. All the lodges include boat trips and many offer carefully regulated night tours to see the turtles (in season). Tortuguero’s peaceful atmosphere attracts nature and wildlife lovers year-round, and has managed to develop a superb lowdensity tourist system.
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Evergreen Lodge
Evergreen Lodge’s 55 rustic
|
jungle-style bungalows have been
built to coexist with the environment and provide a comfortable and
spacious base. You can eat in the
restaurant, have a drink at the bar in
front of the lagoon, and enjoy the refreshing turtle-shaped swimming pool and tropical gardens.
...the ultimate destination for wildlife lovers looking for peace and seclusion...
Arenal & the North The near-perfect cone of Arenal is one of the most iconic volcanoes in Central America, which is an impressive feat in a region that boasts many prominent peaks. At 5,437 feet, the volcano dominates the lush forests and pastures of the northern La Fortuna area that surrounds it. Dormant for centuries, explosions in 1968 triggered lava flows and the volcano was active for some time afterwards, and has now
grown dormant again. There are many adventures to enjoy in the area, including hiking on the volcano’s mammoth sides and relaxing in the springs naturally heated by the geothermal activity. If you like a bit of adrenaline, there’s white-water rafting, canyoning and zip-line tours. If you prefer your activities a bit more sedate, the Sky Tram is worth a ride.
Arenal Nayara Hotel Spa & Gardens | This small,
rainforest, Tabacon Grand Spa
Tabacon
stunning views of Arenal Volcano and
couples alike. Tabacon is an
stylish boutique hotel has the most
Thermal Resort is ideal for families and
provides a highly attentive service. Each
eco-friendly and carbon neutral resort
of its 50 self-contained casitas
(bungalows) has volcano views and is
set in a secluded garden with an outdoor shower and Jacuzzi on a private terrace.
| Set amongst lush
with 102 rooms and suites. Guests
can choose from two restaurants and
two bars, one of which is a swim-up pool bar.
Monteverde Cloud Forest The Monteverde Cloud Forest is an enchanting land of emerald green foliage shrouded in thick, swirling mists. Only a few hours by road from Arenal, the forest is perched some 1,400 metres above sea level on the edge of the Tilaran Mountains. Over 400 bird species have been spotted here, including an incredible 30 separate varieties of hummingbird. There is a huge choice of activities on offer in Monteverde, most of which are suitable for families.
You can hike through the cloud forest, take tours of the canopy suspended on walkways or on a zip line, and explore butterfly and hummingbird gardens. We highly recommend a tour of the forest at night, when its nocturnal denizens come out. You can also take longer treks and horse rides during the day; both a great way to see more of this misty wonderland.
El Silencio, Bajos del Toro | Dotted around this peaceful
Fonda Vela is set in 35 acres of
featuring outdoor whirlpool tubs and
perfect for bird watching and hiking.
hideaway are 16 stylish cottage suites furnished viewing decks. Enjoy healthy meals at the on-site Los Ventanales
restaurant. A variety of local activities
is available, including horse riding, river rafting, and bird watching.
Hotel Fonda Vela
| Hotel
grounds surrounded by lush forest,
Rooms are comfortable and spacious, many with large windows and forest views. There are two restaurants, a
covered pool with a country-club-style locker room, and two jacuzzis. CALL US ON 020 7666 1260
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Guanacaste, Nicoya & Pacific Coast Beaches The provinces of Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula comprise almost the entirety of Costa Rica’s idyllic North Pacific coastline. This region’s towns range from beachy Tamarindo andthe relaxed surf communities of Nosara and Samara, and you’ll find all types of accommodation on offer from boutique hotels to remote eco-lodges. Guanacaste isn’t all about its coast, either. Guanacaste is also
Andaz Papagayo
home to the largest – and last remaining – tropical dry forest in Central America and you can explore geysers, old haciendas and cattle ranches, and meet the local cowboys – the sabaneros. With a fascinating regional history (it was independent from Costa Rica until 1824), and bubbling mud pools, looming volcanoes and therapeutic sulphur hot springs, this truly is a region with something to offer everyone.
Lagarta Lodge
| Andaz
| Boutique
Papagayo offers a total of 153
Lagarta Lodge’s 26 spacious and
magnificent views of Culebra Bay and
with spectacular views towards the
guestrooms and suites, all with
elegant suites offer a terrace or balcony
the tropical forest. Guests can enjoy a
jungle or the windswept coast. Tucked
huge selection of amenities including two secluded beaches, an 18-hole
golf course, three themed restaurants, two pools and an impressive spa.
away in the lodge gardens you’ll find two
infinity pools and a jacuzzi, and the hotel
has an excellent spa that offers treatments and yoga.
Manuel Antonio & the Central Pacific Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is one of the country’s most visited areas, and for good reason. It offers something for everyone: gorgeous beaches, water sports, deep sea fishing and adventure tours – all of which you’ll be able to enjoy with a verdant rainforest as your spectacular backdrop. The sheer beauty of the Manuel Antonio National Park makes it one of the most popular destinations along this coast. It is easily accessible by road from San José in just a few hours. Its sand beaches rise from the ocean into dense, lush rainforest with well-marked trails and prolific wildlife. The lesser-visited coastline around Uvita and Dominical means wild and beautiful beaches. The area is also well-known for important turtle nesting sites, its whale and dolphin-watching, and the humpback gatherings in Marino Ballena National Park.
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Parador Resort and Spa |
Parador is a secluded,
environmentally-responsible resort
perched high on the cliffs above the sweeping central Pacific coastline. Holding the Costa Rican Tourism
Board’s highest 5-Leaf sustainability
rating and the Ecological Blue Flag, Parador combines old-world charm with warm Costa Rican hospitality.
The sheer beauty of the Manuel Antonio National Park makes it one of the most popular destinations along this coast. It is easily accessible by road from San José in just a few hours
White-faced Capuchin Monkeys, Corcovado National Park
Osa Peninsula & Corcovado The remote primary rainforest of the Osa Peninsula, located in the far southern Pacific coastal area, is home to the greatest variety of plants and animals of any protected area in Costa Rica and includes the wonderful pristine jungle of the Corcovado National Park. This region is ideal for the more adventurous traveller, especially those with an interest in wildlife. It is considered one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Despite having little road access, some of the country’s best eco-lodges are located here. You can reach them by air from San José and then either by 4WD or by boat. Activities here tend to revolve around wildlife. Hike the forest trails and keep your eyes peeled for sloths, monkeys or even tapirs; or snorkel off small islands and happen upon dolphins, Manta rays and colourful schools of tropical fish.
Lapa Rios
...As I dozed in my hammock beside deserted Playa Corcovado on the Osa Peninsula, I started to understand the meaning of the local phrase pura vida, which roughly translates as pure life. With the sound of the waves rolling on to the shore and the rustling palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze, I was transported into a state of total bliss. The call of a nearby Howler monkey and the melodic bird song added to the idyllic sound-scape, as I relived the experience from the day before, when 30 or so Spotted Pacific dolphins greeted our arrival at Caño Island with such grace and exuberance. This was pura vida indeed.
Playa Cativo Eco Lodge |
| Eco-friendly
Lapa Rios is situated in a private
Playa Cativo Eco Lodge is a boutique
reserve only a short hike from the
accessible only by boat, surrounded by the
1,000-acre tropical rainforest nature
beach-front lodge with just seven rooms
beach. Its 16 thatched bungalows all
Piedras Blancas National Park. The
have a private deck and garden shower. The lodge has strong
community values with many of the staff coming from the local area.
ocean-facing pool and bar are wonderful, and jungle trails to explore.
and there are extensive tropical gardens
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Costa Rica Highlights
Manuel Antonio National Park
Suggested Itinerary
Costa Rica is a fantastic destination surrounded by its Pacific and Caribbean coasts. With its towering volcanoes, abundant wildlife, rainforest and cloud forest, there is so much to reward the curious traveller. This itinerary takes you around the country’s incredible highlights, all with something unique to offer. If you’re a nature lover, Costa Rica might just be your paradise. Please enquire for details if you would like to explore Costa Rica on a group tour. Day 1 Fly to San Jose | Upon arrival into San
Day 7 Arenal to Monteverde | Travel both by
hotel.
Cross Lake Arenal, the largest lake in Costa
Jose you will be met and transferred to your
Day 2 San Jose and the Central Valley | Head out on a private tour into the Central Valley. At Doka Coffee Plantation , learn about coffee
production and of course do some sampling!
Head to Poás Volcano National Park for a closeup volcano experience before stopping at the powerful La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Immerse
yourself in the sounds of nature as you walk along winding forest trails.
Day 3 San Jose to Tortuguero | Travel to
Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast. Enjoy the incredible wildlife-spotting
opportunities offered by this vast park, including turtles laying eggs on the beach or baby turtles
hatching if you’re there at the right time of year. Day 4 Tortuguero | Spend a full day exploring the park’s waterways by boat with a local
guide. Sunrise is the best time to witness the cacophony of jungle life, with birds, monkeys,
sloths and even alligators and tapirs on the list of possible sightings.
Day 5 Tortuguero to Arenal | Transfer to the
Arenal region for two nights, famed for its conical volcano. Check into your hotel and then take the chance to relax in nearby hot springs.
Day 6 Arenal | Delve into Caño Negro,
considered one of the most important wetlands in Central America. Board a boat down the Rio
Frio for amazing wildlife viewing opportunities.
Keep your eyes peeled for caiman, sloths, birds, monkeys and even turtles. 70
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boat and road to the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Rica that was man-made in 1974 to provide
hydroelectricity. On arrival at Monteverde, spend the evening watching the jungle come alive as darkness encroaches.
Day 8 Monteverde | Visit the Selvatura
Walkways, suspended in the canopy, and marvel at your birds-eye view of the forest. Watch for
some of the incredible bird’s that call this region
home, including the world-famous Resplendent Quetzal.
Day 9 Monteverde to Manuel Antonio |
Descend from the cool cloud forest to the
steamy Pacific. Spend three days near Manuel
Antonio National Park, exploring by day or simply relaxing on the beach or by the pool.
Days 10-11 Manuel Antonio National Park | Enjoy two days at leisure to explore this area’s
stunning beaches and incredible national park.
One of Costa Rica’s most impressive protected areas, the 683 hectares of mangrove swamps
and beaches are home to a rich variety of fauna and flora and offer plenty of activities such as
deep sea fishing, mountain biking and canopy tours.
Days 12-13 Fly to the UK | Transfer to the
airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
Central American Journey
Antigua, Guatemala
Suggested Itinerary
For travellers wishing to take in as much of Central America as possible, this is the perfect itinerary. Take in the highlights of Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Guatemala all in the same trip. Drink in stunning landscapes featuring towering volcanoes, shimmering blue lakes, waterways rich in wildlife and mysterious cloud forest. The human element can’t be overlooked either – you’ll also explore the histories and cultures of these amazing countries while on this trip. Day 1 UK to Panama City | Arrive in Panama
Day 8 Arenal to El Castillo | Cross the border
Day 14 Lake Atitlan | Take a scenic ride across
your hotel.
San Juan River. This colourful village features
where you will see traditional textile craft in
City where you will be met and transferred to
Day 2 Panama City | After breakfast, head to the Old Quarter and explore its beautiful and
eclectic fusion of colonial, neoclassic and French architecture.
Day 3 Panama City | Take a half-day tour to transit the canal by boat, ending in Gamboa.
Enjoy a panoramic view of the city and experience the workings of the canal first-hand.
Day 4 Panama City to San Jose to Monteverde Board a morning flight to San Jose in Costa Rica, where you will be met and driven to Monteverde
Cloud Forest. In the evening perhaps explore the cloud forest under the cover of darkness.
Day 5 Monteverde | Witness the jungle from
above as you traverse the Selvatura Walkway, a
network of bridges suspended in the canopy. This misty area is home to more than 400 species of
bird, including the famous Resplendent Quetzal. Day 6 Monteverde to Arenal | Cross Lake
Arenal by boat and wonder at views of Arenal
Volcano. This man-made lake is the largest and most important lake in Costa Rica, created to provide hydroelectric energy.
Day 7 Arenal | Hike around one of Central
America’s most famous volcanoes, Arenal. Learn how eruptions have shaped the destiny of the
land and the people who live here, keeping an eye out for fascinating flora and fauna along the way. Later relax in the wonderful hot springs.
into Nicaragua and journey to El Castillo on the brightly-painted wooden homes on stilts,
overlooked by an impressive 17th-century Spanish fortress.
Day 9 El Castillo to Granada | Visit the Indio
Maiz Reserve, dedicated to biological diversity, then depart to Granada. This charming city
boasts picture-postcard views and cobbled streets at every turn.
Day 10 Granada | Explore colonial Granada and enjoy a boat ride around the many islets of Lake
Nicaragua. This beautiful landscape was formed
the lake to the village of San Juan la Laguna,
action. Continue on to the village of Santiago for lunch and a tour which will teach you about the
spiritualism and beliefs of the local T’zutujil Maya. Day 15 Chichicastenango to Antigua | Head to the renowned market at Chichicastenango
where you can explore the colourful food market
and excellent craft market. Later transfer back to Antigua for the night.
Days 16-17 Fly to the UK | Transfer to the
airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
by the impressive Mombacko Volcano.
Day 11 Managua to Guatemala City to Antigua | Transfer to Managua to fly to Guatemala City, where you will be met and driven to colonial
Antigua. This pretty former capital is one of the
finest cities in Central America, sat in the shadow of three volcanoes and surrounded by coffee plantations.
Day 12 Antigua | Stroll through charming
cobbled streets as you tour Antigua’s highlights such as the Arco de Santa Catalina. Later visit
the fabulous Azotea coffee farm and the Maya
Traditions Museum to delve into the culture and history of the area.
Day 13 Antigua to Lake Atitlan | Head to Lake Atitlan, whose azure beauty is enhanced by the
towering backdrop of volcanoes and the Mayan villages dotted around its shores.
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USA
Chihuahua
Copper Canyon Sea of Cortez
Baja California
Gulf of Mexico
Mexico
Mérida
San Jose del Cabo
Yucatan Peninsula
Cancun Mexico City
Palenque
Oaxaca
BELIZE
San Cristóbal de las Casas GUATEMALA
MEXICO
M
ost visitors to Mexico arrive in the capital, Mexico City, one of the largest metropolises in the world. There’s so much to do here. The outstanding Anthropology Museum is ideal preparation for Mexico’s archaeological sites and the pre-Aztec city of Teotihuacán is an easy day trip from the city.
To the north of Mexico City, a spectacular train ride takes you through the dramatic Copper Canyon. To the south east, charming Oaxaca is a great stopover point, with Zapotec ruins nearby and the incredible annual Day of the Dead celebrations. Trips to San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuata and former silver-mining towns showcase the Spanish colonial architecture found in Mexico’s heartlands. In the state of Chiapas, picturesque San Cristóbal de las Casas is one of the biggest draws, although it’s worth visiting for its diverse natural landscapes alone.
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The Yucatán Peninsula is often overlooked by those heading to Cancun, but this area has so much to offer. Colonial Mérida is an ideal base from which to explore the Uxmal ruins; we also recommend visiting biospheres such as Celestún and Sian Ka’an, swimming with the whale sharks of Holbox Island and heading to a cenote, one of the Yucatán’s astonishing freshwater sinkholes.
...Mexico has it all. Ruins of ancient civilisations, a fascinating colonial history, wonderful beaches, steamy jungles, superb cuisine, excellent hospitality – and, of course, mariachi bands and tequila!
Top Tips • • • • •
Get to know Mexico City and its Anthropology Museum Jump aboard the iconic Copper Canyon train Visit some of the lesser-known Mayan sites Visit Baja California and the ‘Mexican Galapagos’ Try all of Mexico’s famous dishes and snacks
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO Mexico is a large country and most areas can be visited year round. It has, in the main, a warm climate. Overall, the period from December to May is the best time to visit. Between July and the end of October, the Yucatán Peninsula can be affected by tropical storms, or occasionally hurricanes. GETTING THERE British Airways and Aeromexico operate a direct service from London Heathrow to Mexico City. British Airways and Virgin also have direct services to Cancun. GMT -6/-7 hours Mexico City and the Yucatán Peninsula GMT-6. The Copper Canyon and Baja California GMT-7. VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Mexico. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Mexico.
Ceramic skulls for the Day of the Dead celebrations
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Mexico City Mexico City is one of the oldest urban centres in the western hemisphere. Once a massive Aztec city named Tenochtitlan, it was large enough in its heyday to rival contemporary Paris or Venice. Conquered, largely destroyed and rebuilt by the Spanish in the 16th century, Mexico City today is once again one of the largest metropolises in the world, with its Aztec and colonial past still living within its present. Nowhere is its history more evident than at the central plaza,
Las Alcobas
| The 35 large
rooms in modern Las Alcobas are
Four Seasons Mexico City | Four Seasons Mexico City
spacious and luxurious. Dine at the
boasts 200 very comfortable rooms
where Mexican food is served by
dine at the hotel’s Reforma 500
Barroco restaurant and Dulce Patria renowned chef Marta Ortiz. There is be pampered after a busy day in the city.
the Zócalo. Surrounded by some of the finest buildings of the colonial era, here lie the remnants of one of the Aztecs’ principal monuments, the Templo Mayor. It’s not all about the history, though. Mexico City is vibrant and dynamic, with a buzzing coffee scene and plenty of galleries to keep art-lovers happy. Don’t miss a visit to Xochimilco’s floating gardens, where you can glide along the canals in a colourful ‘trajinera’ (gondola).
also a spa where guests can relax and
and 40 exceptional suites. Guests can restaurant, which serves
contemporary Latin cuisine, or splash
out on the famous Signature Sunday Brunch with unlimited champagne.
Copper Canyon The best way to see the Copper Canyon is to ride the Copper Canyon Railway, also called the ‘Chepe’ train, into the north west desert region. The views offered from this comfortable train are beyond comparison as you travel past the 20 canyons that make up the Copper Canyon region. The Copper Canyon is located right in the heart of Mexican wilderness. It’s home to the Tarahumara people, who continue to live simple lives reminiscent of a bygone era. 74
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You can take the train ride in one day for the view alone, or you could spend up to a week in the region. Using the railway as your route, you can stop overnight to explore and discover different local areas such as Creel, Posada Barrancas, Cerocahui and El Fuerte. Visit Tarahumara villages, stunning canyon lookout points and old missions and take short treks along the canyon ridges.
Oaxaca Located south east of Mexico City, Oaxaca is an easy plane ride from the capital. One of Mexico’s most popular cities, it boasts a delightful combination of colonial, indigenous and ancient influences. Fine Spanish buildings and churches stand proud among vibrant markets and numerous fiestas. Despite its mixed heritage, though, Oaxaca remains essentially Indian at heart. The townsfolk speak their own language and their market is one of the most colourful in Mexico.
Quinta Real
| This 91-room
Casa Oaxaca
| Casa
hotel is housed in a former convent
Oaxaca is a delightful seven-room
efforts have been made to reflect the
Rooms feature modern pieces of art,
which dates back to 1576, and great building’s rich history. A series of
secret gardens and fountains provide the hubbub of the city.
Oaxaca is located in a valley surrounded by the Sierra Madre del Sur, which was once the centre of Zapotec and Mixtec civilisations. The early Zapotecs developed a significant civilisation at nearby Monte Alban centuries before the birth of Christ. A trip to Monte Alban is a fascinating journey into the past, as is a visit to the nearby Mixtec site of Mitla. Oaxaca is also one of the best places in the country to experience the annual Day of the Dead festivities.
areas of peace and quiet away from
property set in a traditional building. local handicrafts and limestone-
coated walls. This charming hotel has a well-known restaurant where you
can enjoy a variety of dishes made with fresh local produce.
Baja California Baja California is a long sliver of land on Mexico’s Pacific coastline in the far north west of the country and boasts a magical mix of spectacular scenery, hidden beaches and coves and world-class accommodation. During the Arctic winter, hundreds of Grey whales head south to the warm waters off Baja California to breed and raise their young, making this an incredible spot for whale-watching.
Casa Natalia
| This
Separated from the mainland by the Sea of Cortez, the southern Baja capital, La Paz, is a fantastic place for oceanic activities such as kayaking, wind- and kite-surfing, and the chance to swim with friendly whale sharks. From La Paz boats go to the Espiritu Santos Islands, dubbed ‘The Galapagos of North America’ by Jacques Costeau. They are well worth a visit.
Hotel El Ganzo
| Hotel El
boutique hotel boasts 18 gorgeous
Ganzo is a sleek, trendy modern hotel
rooms’ hand decorated by local artists
relaxed retreat from the hustle and
rooms, including two special ‘artists’ Tanya Talamante and Alfredo Sosa.
The hotel’s restaurant, Mi Cocina, is a real gem featuring ever-fresh food
inspired by Baja’s most popular dishes, all with a European twist.
offering amazing ocean views and a
bustle of Los Cabos. The rooms are simple without scrimping on luxury.
Make sure you try the food which is all
carefully prepared on a sustainable, farm-to-table basis. CALL US ON 020 7666 1260
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San Cristóbal & Palenque A number of important Mayan sites and colonial towns lie nestled in Mexico’s Heartlands and are easy to visit en-route from Mexico City to the Yucatán Peninsula. San Cristóbal de las Cases is nestled in the heart of the highlands. A colourful colonial city, it is surrounded by indigenous Chiapaneca villages that each boast their own traditions and markets. Reach San Cristóbal in a two-hour drive from Tuxtla
Guayaba Inn
Gutierrez via the spectacular Sumidero Canyon. As you climb, the tropical heat and vegetation gradually give way to the cooler mountain air and pine forests that surround San Cristóbal. Palenque, shrouded in jungle, is one of the most breathtaking of Mexico’s Mayan sites, perched on a ledge overlooking the swampy plains below. Listen out for the call of the Howley monkeys between the ruins.
Quinta Cha Nab Nal
| Guayaba Inn
|
is a quaint boutique hotel in San
Just 3km from the archaeological site
hideaway is brimming with antiques,
suites and resembles a Mayan palace
Cristóbal de las Casas. This intimate
of Palenque, this resort has seven
and with art created by none other
complex. Pre-Hispanic design and
than the owner herself. A relaxing
lobby area and inviting restaurant seal
the deal in this supremely comfortable property.
modern sophistication create an aura of peace and isolation. Indulge in
typical Mayan cuisine at the hotel’s intimate, romantic restaurant.
Riviera Maya & Holbox The Caribbean coastline of the Yucatán Peninsula has been dubbed the ‘Riviera Maya’ for its idyllic white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. It stretches from Cancun in the north to the archaeological site of Tulum in the south, and features tropical beaches, snorkelling and diving havens, archaeological sites and lush jungle. It’s the perfect place to enjoy some rest and relaxation or beachy activities.
Hotel Esencia
The laid-back island of Holbox lies just north of the peninsula in the Gulf of Mexico. Long and slender, surrounded by crystalclear Caribbean seas and criss-crossed with sandy streets, Holbox is the ultimate destination for relaxation. Holbox is home to more than 150 species of birds within its Yum Balam reserve, and in the summer months, whale sharks are known to congregate in the nearby waters.
Casa Sandra
| A small
luxury boutique hotel, Esencia has
couples, Casa Sandra has 20 superbly
series of beautiful villas and houses.
balconies. Enjoy wonderful personal
only 29 spacious rooms set within a
appointed suites with private
The décor is tasteful and minimalist,
service and a relaxing atmosphere,
with pristine white floors and airy patios. Lounge on the beach
underneath your linen-shaded parasol at this pretty, tranquil retreat. At meal times, savour international cuisine with a Mayan twist. 76
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| Perfect for
and unwind completely. The gourmet island, specialises in seafood dishes.
restaurant, said to be the best on the
Yucatán Peninsula The Yucatán Peninsula boasts a large number of Mayan sites that have weathered the intervening centuries. While Europe was still in the Dark Ages, the Mayans had mapped the heavens, evolved the only true writing system native to the Americas and mastered Mathematics. They invented the calendars we still use today, and constructed staggeringly enormous monuments and cities across a huge, unforgiving jungle landscape. No trip to Mexico would be complete without visiting the major
Chichen Itzá
| The length
Chichen Itzá
Mayan sites of Chichen Itzá and Uxmal. The state capital of Mérida is a great place from which to strike out to these sites, and itself offers sights for those interested in the Maya, for example, the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, which was built with the stones of long-lost Mayan temples. Don’t miss the famous cenotes, jungle sinkholes ideal for snorkelling or swimming. The Mayans believed that the cenotes linked them to the underworld.
Uxmal
| Uxmal is considered
of Chichen Itzá’s history has resulted
one of the most important Mayan
styles from across the Mayan
ily representative of the region’s
in a fascinating mix of architectural
civilisation still visible today. It was one of the largest Mayan cities, and is likely to have been one of the
mythical ‘great cities’ referred to in later Mesoamerican literature. The great pyramid of El Castillo dominates the archaeological site.
Hacienda Mérida
| Eight
sites. Its architecture is extraordinardominant Mayan architectural style, and its buildings are famed for their size and decoration. Ancient roads
connect both buildings within Uxmal and the city itself to other ancient sites in the region, and even sites as far afield as Tikal in Guatemala.
The Lodge at Chichen
individually decorated rooms blend
Boasting its own private entrance to
amenities in Hacienda Mérida. There
Chichen Itzá, The Lodge’s clay and
traditional furnishings with modern is an onsite bar and breakfast is
served in the courtyard under the
arches, poolside. Although there is
no restaurant at the hotel, there is a huge choice within walking distance.
|
the entrance to the ruined temples of marble bungalows are inspired by traditional Maya houses. The
restaurant serves Mexican, regional
Yucatecan and international cuisine using home-grown ingredients.
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Magical Mexico
Palenque
Suggested Itinerary
This journey takes you across Mexico, getting you close to its ancient traditions, rich history, astonishing natural beauty and delicious food. Start in vibrant Mexico City and traverse this incredible country’s breadth, ending in the Yucatán Peninsula with its enigmatic Mayan ruins and charming colonial capital, Mérida. This is the perfect introduction to a truly magical country. Day 1 Fly to Mexico City | Upon arrival into
Day 7 San Cristóbal de las Casas | Explore the
Days 13-14 Chichen Itzá & fly to the UK |
your hotel for three nights.
Cristóbal with a private tour. Later enjoy a drive
seven Wonders of the World’. This ancient Mayan
Mexico City you will be met and transferred to Day 2 Mexico City | Take a private tour to soak up the culture and history of Mexico’s capital.
Visit some of the city’s most important buildings and see glimpses of the great Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, that once stood here.
Day 3 Teotihuacan | Take a day trip to one
of Mexico’s most impressive archaeological
sites, just 50km northeast of Mexico City. At
Teotihuacan, held sacred by the Aztecs, explore the fascinating ruins including the famous Quetzalpapalotl Palace Complex and the immense Pyramid of the Sun.
Day 4 Mexico City to Oaxaca | Fly to Oaxaca, once the centre of the Mixtec and Zapotec
civilisations. With influences from both its ancient history and its Spanish conquerors, Oaxaca
is a delight to explore on foot, full of tranquil
streets and leafy plazas and offering some truly incredible food.
Day 5 Oaxaca | Visit the Monte Alban World Heritage Site and admire the stunning views
over Oaxaca. Once one of the most prominent Zapotec cities, an entire mountaintop was
levelled out to create the ceremonial site at
Monte Alban and it is still considered an incredible feat of engineering today.
Day 6 Oaxaca to Sumidero Canyon and San
Cristóbal | Arriving into Tuxtla Gutierrez from Oaxaca, head to the magnificent Sumidero
Canyon whose sheer rock walls reach more than 1,000m high. Move on to the charming town of San Cristóbal de las Casas in its highland valley. 78
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picturesque cobbled streets and markets of San into the highlands to visit three Tzotzil Indian villages, where local people still maintain the traditions of their ancient Maya ancestors.
Day 8 San Cristóbal to Palenque | En route to
Palenque, stop at the beautiful waterfalls of Agua Azul and take a refreshing dip in the aquamarine waters. Continue on to Palenque for two nights. Day 9 Palenque | Take a guided tour of the archaeological site of Palenque and its 500
buildings spread through the jungle. Its temples
are a superb example of Mayan architecture. The Temple of Inscriptions is the tallest, rising above its fellows.
Day 10 Palenque to Mérida | Fly to Mérida and relax into the laid-back tempo maintained here
despite being a bustling city. Mérida is particularly famous for showcasing local Yucatecan cuisine, so make sure you try regional dishes such as sopa de lima and cochinita pibil.
Day 11 Mérida | Head out of the city to Uxmal, an impressive archaeological site considered
to be one of the best examples of Mayan Puuc
architecture in the region. Later continue on to Kabah, where the Palace of the Masks features nearly 300 masks depicting Chaac, the Mayan rain god.
Day 12 Mérida to Chichen Itzá | This morning, take a tour of Mérida, a modern city full of
museums and art galleries that still bursts with
colonial history. In the afternoon, transfer to your hotel near the ancient site of Chichen Itzá.
Today discover Chichen Itzá, one of the ‘New
city has been restored and today is a dazzling
site featuring towering pyramids, wells once used for human sacrifice, and the Sacred Cenote.
In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
The Mayan World
Palace of the Masks, Kabah
Suggested Itinerary
Follow in the footsteps of the ancient Maya as you journey through the jungles and charming colonial towns of Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico. This astonishing civilisation left its mark across Latin America, and this itinerary will get you up close and personal with some of the most incredible of these crumbling remnants, with plenty to satisfy the most curious of travellers. Days 1-2 Guatemala City to Antigua | Fly
complex of temples, walkways, and plazas hidden
Days 13-14 Chichen Itzá & fly to the UK |
On arrival, you will be met and transferred to
wildlife.
Named one of the New seven Wonders of the
overnight from the UK to Guatemala City.
your hotel in Antigua. This colonial town, full of
cobblestone streets, is a real gem. On a walking
tour drink in the pastel-hued façades, handicraft markets and laid-back atmosphere.
Day 3 Antigua to Copán | In the morning, cross the Honduran border and settle into your hotel, ready to explore the fascinating Mayan site of
Copán, once a powerful city that ruled over a vast kingdom.
Day 4 Copán | This site is a marvellous
collection of complexes that truly showcases
the Mayans’ astonishing architectural prowess.
On a guided tour, explore the myriad plazas and roads and find the fascinating sculptures and hieroglyphs this civilisation left behind.
Day 5 Copán to Livingstone | Return to
Guatemala and transfer via the Rio Dulce to
Livingstone, a sun-soaked town on the Caribbean coast. En route, stop at the amazing ruins of Quiriguá. Home to the indigenous Garifuna
people, Livingstone is a unique town with Carib and African cultural influences.
Day 6 Copán to Tikal | In the morning, enjoy a
cruise along the Rio Dulce. Later plunge deeper
into the jungle as you head towards Tikal, where you’ll spend two nights in the Guatemalan
Rainforest. Stop at Ak’Tenamit, an organisation
helping indigenous communities to develop and prosper.
Day 7 Tikal | Tikal will, quite simply, take your
breath away. This extraordinary site is perhaps the greatest of all the Mayan ruins with its vast
away within the steamy jungle and surrounded by Day 8 Tikal to Palenque | Travel by road and
boat as you cross the border into the Mexican state of Chiapas. Visit the mysterious sites of
Bonampak and Yaxchilán before continuing on to Palenque for two nights.
Day 9 Palenque | Delve into Palenque, one of Mexico’s finest Mayan sites. Keep an eye (and
Set out early for a tour of this remarkable site. World, Chichen Itzá deserves its fame, with
its breathtaking pyramid of El Castillo and its crumbling majesty. After lunch, travel to the
airport for the overnight flight back to the UK. NB: If you would like to extend your trip with some time on the beach, please let us know.
ear!) out for howler monkeys as you explore,
along with colourful birds and butterflies, all of which flourish among the 500 buildings that make up this extraordinary complex.
Day 10 Palenque to Mérida | From Palenque
you’ll journey to Villahermosa, catching a flight to Mérida in the Yucatán Peninsula. Though a
bustling city, Mérida retains its colonial charm and laid-back tempo with leafy plazas and
pastel houses. Make sure you try the delicious Yucatecan cuisine while you’re here.
Day 11 Mérida | Take a day trip from Mérida to
Uxmal, an important Mayan ruin and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During your tour enjoy the palaces, temples, and above all, the symbolic
motifs and sculptures for which the site is most
famous. Continue on to Kabah, with its amazing Palace of the Masks.
Day 12 Mérida to Chichen Itzá | In the morning
explore historic Mérida, built more than 450 years ago on the site of an ancient Mayan city called
T’ho. See beautiful art and architecture, and delve into the Yucatan Peninsula’s sometimes bloody history. Later transfer to your hotel near the famous Mayan site of Chichen Itzá.
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Tikal
Belize
Flores
Mexico
Guatemala
Livingston
Honduras
Chichicastenango Copan
Lake Atitlán Antigua
Tegucigalpa
Guatemala City
El Salvador Nicaragua
Guatemala
G
uatemala is an incredible destination for lovers of culture and adventure alike. For stunning sights, look no further than Lake Atitlan in the central highlands, where rural villages feature locals wearing hand-woven traditional outfits and three volcanic peaks tower over the landscape. Guatemala is full of history, boasting perhaps the most striking of all Mayan sites in Central America at Tikal. Here rainforest brushes up against ancient stone, toucans flit between crumbling walls and howler monkeys prowl amongst the ruins. Don’t miss the former capital, Antigua, an immensely attractive and relaxing city that serves as Guatemala’s cultural and artistic centre. Guatemala’s colonial heritage is still obvious here in particular, with many of its painstakingly restored Spanish buildings now converted into stylish hotels.
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Also worth a visit is Chichicastenango, where Guatemala’s largest and most colourful market is held. While here, see the intriguing Santo Tomás, a unique church with its own style of worship blended from pre-Columbian and Catholic practices. If you want to really get off the beaten track, take a boat down the Rio Dulce towards the Caribbean coast at Livingston. You might even spot a manatee!
...Littered with Mayan ruins and full of spectacular scenery, Guatemala is one of Latin America’s most striking countries.
Top Tips • • • • •
Meet friendly locals in beautiful traditional attire at Lake Atitlán Delve into the streets of Antigua and see the beautiful, restored colonial buildings Visit the Mayan site at Tikal Take a boat to the Caribbean coast at Livingston and try to spot manatees Barter at the vibrant Chichicastenango market
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO The best time to go to Guatemala is between December and May. Although the region is generally hot and humid all year round, Guatemala’s highlands can get very cold between October and March. GETTING THERE There are no direct flights from Guatemala to the UK. Iberia flies from Madrid to Guatemala City; alternatively a number of US airlines fly to Guatemala via their hubs in the USA. GMT -6 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Guatemala, although if you fly via the USA an ESTA is needed. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Guatemala.
Church in Santa Maria de Jesus
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Antigua Set in the shadow of three volcanoes and oozing colonial appeal, Antigua is a delightful city and well worth a visit during your time in Guatemala. This former capital was founded in 1543 and today is vibrant and beautiful, surrounded by coffee plantations and haciendas. Many old colonial properties in Antigua have been restored and converted into comfortable boutique posadas, the perfect
El Convento
places from which to venture out and explore Antigua’s weekly market. Markets are a vital part of everyday life in Guatemala, and local people walk from miles around to attend the weekly one in Antigua to buy food, textiles, clothing, livestock and many other goods. Full of colour, history and charm, Antigua is a worthy addition to any Guatemala holiday.
Posada del Angel
| This
| Fine
all-suite boutique hotel blends
attention to detail and attentive
styles, all rooms set around a central
treat. With just five rooms and two
traditional, colonial and modern
service make Posada del Angel a real
courtyard with its 100-year-old
suites, this intimate hotel is a
Tempixque tree. The restaurant
offers delicious Guatemalan recipes
cooked slowly in the traditional style – a true highlight.
romantic hideaway packed with
Guatemalan character. Enjoy the
tranquil garden, pool and cosy library after breakfast on the roof terrace.
Lake Atitlán & Chichicastenango The image of Lake Atitlán, with its three volcanoes dominating the skyline, is for many one of the most evocative reminders of a Guatemalan holiday. It is truly one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Surrounding the lake you’ll find a number of fiercely traditional villages, where many women continue to wear historical dress. Journeying from village to village, you’ll spot minor variations in these outfits, turning every stop into a riot of colour and culture.
Casa Palopo
| Casa Palopo
terraced into the hillside, boasting
featuring private balconies and
Atitlán. The house has strikingly decorated interiors with smart
contemporary furnishings and Mayan art. RAINBOW TOURS
| Situated
on the northern shores of Lake
fabulous panoramic views over Lake
|
Hotel Atitlán
is a delightful property with seven rooms and a two-bedroom villa
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Close to the lake is the town of Chichicastangeno, which hosts the largest and best-known market in Guatemala. This enormous market draws tourists and villagers to buy and sell brightly woven textiles, ceramics and masks. Just as fascinating is the local food market where fresh meat and produce are bought and sold by local people – it is worth the early start to wander the stalls and sample the local treats!
Atitlán, this hotel has 60 rooms, all locally-sourced or inspired
decorations. There is a pool, a series of contrasting gardens, and a
brightly-decorated restaurant with views of the lake and far-off volcanoes.
Flores & Tikal The town of Flores appears to float on Lake Petén Itzá, so densely does it cover the island on which it’s built. Flores is the capital of El Petén region, which is considered the heartland of the Mayan cities. Tikal is its most famous, but Yaxha is also worth a visit, and for the more adventurous there’s the recentlydiscovered El Mirador, accessible only via helicopter or a five-day hike. Shrouded in lush tropical jungle, Tikal is one of the most
Itzá
extraordinary and impressive of all Mayan sites. Tikal was first occupied as a small village sometime before 300BC, but by around 700AD had become an important city with monumental palaces, plazas and pyramids. Tikal is such a huge site that parts of it today are still hidden within the rainforest. Don’t worry though; there’s still so much to explore. We recommend taking a day trip to give you plenty of time to marvel at its wonders.
La Lancha, Lake Petén
Las Lagunas
| La Lancha, part of the
Francis Ford Coppola collection, is a
boutique hotel nestled in one of
luxurious jungle resort overlooking
northern Guatemala’s pristine
peaceful Lake Petén Itzá. Each of
nature reserves. The hotel is
the ten secluded casitas combines
Balinese and Guatemalan décor and
furnishings. The lodge has a split-level pool and an open-air restaurant under the main lodge’s thatch roof with spectacular views.
| Las
Lagunas is an exclusive, eco-friendly
decorated with locally-sourced
materials and dark wood finishes
that reflect its natural surroundings, and yet the facilities are perfectly modern.
Rio Dulce & Livingston The beautiful Rio Dulce runs from Guatemala’s largest lake, Lake Izabel, to the Caribbean coast. A boat trip along its length offers landscapes of limestone canyons, Spanish forts, dense rainforest and mysterious mangrove swamps. It makes a fantastic side-trip when travelling between the Mayan ruins of Copán in Honduras or the Mayan stelae of Quiriguá en-route to the Tikal area.
Livingstone sits at the mouth of the Rio Dulce. This small, laidback fishing enclave is accessible only via water or air, giving it the air of a tropical island rather than a traditional Guatemalan town. The local Garifuna people are descendants of shipwrecked African slaves who integrated with the indigenous Caribs in the 17th-century, and have their own language, culture and cuisine all preserved by Livingstone’s inaccessibility.
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Highlights of Guatemala
Lake Atitlán
Suggested Itinerary
Packed with bewitching Mayan ruins, dazzling landscapes, a rich cultural heritage and faded colonial grandeur, Guatemala has so much to offer. Explore its highlights with this itinerary, which takes you from charming and colourful Antigua to shimmering Lake Atitlán, surrounded by towering volcanoes and traditional indigenous settlements. Finally, venture into the jungle that hides imposing Tikal, one of the most incredible Mayan sites in all of Latin America. Day 1 Fly to Guatemala City | Depart the UK
Day 6 Antigua to Quiriguá to Livingston |
will be met and driven to your hotel in Antigua.
route stop at the ruins of Quiriguá, famous for its
on your flight to Guatemala City. Upon arrival you The former capital of Guatemala is one of the
finest cities in Latin America, oozing charm with a laid-back feel.
Day 2 Antigua | Today enjoy a walking tour of
Antigua’s cobbled streets and admire the views of the three volcanoes that surround it – Agua, Fuego and Acatenango. Explore Antigua’s top sights including La Merced church and the famous Arco de Santa Catalina.
Day 3 Antigua to Lake Atitlán | In the
morning, visit local woodcarvers in the village of
Jocotenango and then continue on to the Azotea
coffee farm to learn about responsible agriculture in the region, and then to the Maya Traditions
Museum. In the afternoon, transfer by road to Lake Atitlán.
Day 4 Lake Atitlán | Take a scenic boat ride across Lake Atitlán, truly one of the most
beautiful lakes in the world. Arrive in the village of San Juan la Laguna and explore local crafts.
Continue on to the village of Santiago for lunch and a tour, where you will visit the Maya god Maximón.
Day 5 Lake Atitlán to Antigua | Travel by road to the famous market at Chichicastenango,
where you can explore the colourful food market and excellent local craft market. Don’t miss
the Catholic church of Santo Tomás with its 18
steps representing the 18 months of the Mayan calendar. Later head back to Antigua.
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Travel to Livingston on the Caribbean coast. En carved stelae and sculpted calendars. Carry on
by boat to reach Livingston, a unique town that is home to the fascinating Garifuna people.
Day 7 Livingston to Rio Dulce to Tikal | Cruise along the Rio Dulce, keeping an eye out for Bird
Island and later for elusive manatees as you drift
past the entrance to Biotopo Chocón Machacas. Pass local river villages, stop at the Ak’Tenamit
educational project, and later continue to your jungle lodge in Tikal.
Day 8 Tikal National Park | Today visit Tikal
National Park, an astonishing UNESCO World Heritage Site where the tops of huge Mayan temple pyramids rise above the lush forest
canopy. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb the pyramids and enjoy beautiful views across the jungle.
Day 9 Tikal to Guatemala City | In the morning you can visit the nearby site of Yaxha to watch
sunrise over the ruins, or enjoy an early morning birdwatching tour. In the afternoon, fly from the
nearby town of Flores to Guatemala City for your last night.
Days 10-11 Fly to the UK | Transfer to the
airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
Classic Guatemala & Belize
Collared Aracari, Cayo District
Suggested Itinerary
On this itinerary, plunge into the highlands and jungle of Guatemala before striking out for Belize’s mysterious Cayo District and its beautiful Caribbean coastline. Experience Guatemala’s charming colonial towns, sparkling Lake Atitlán and the famous Mayan ruins at Tikal, then cross the border and delve into the Cayo District. Follow up your adventures with sun and surf on white sand beaches, where the jungle heat combines with sea breezes and a laid-back lifestyle to result in ultimate relaxation. Day 1 Fly to Guatemala City | Fly via the USA to
Day 6 Tikal | Experience the majesty of Tikal on
waters of the island over these two days. Take
nights. The former capital of Guatemala oozes
explore the jungle-shrouded ruins – deer, foxes,
and make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the
Guatemala City and transfer to Antigua for two
colonial charm, surrounded by coffee plantations in the shadow of three volcanoes.
Day 2 Antigua | On a half-day walking tour, take in Antigua’s cobbled streets, colonial churches and attractive squares. Antigua’s history
stretches back to its founding in 1543, and you will see signs of its past everywhere you look. Day 3 Antigua to Lake Atitlán | Visit
woodcarvers in Jocotenango and then witness
the work of the charity As Green As It Gets, who support small local coffee farmers and promote responsible agriculture, when you visit Azotea Coffee Farm. Stop off at the Maya Traditions
Museum and then transfer to Lake Atitlán by road.
Day 4 Lake Atitlán | Revel in the stunning
scenery as you cross the lake by boat to the
village of San Juan la Laguna to witness hand-
weaving and to visit the naif painters. Continue
on to the village of Santiago, where you will have
lunch and learn about the spiritualism of the local T’zutujil Maya.
Day 5 Lake Atitlán to Chichicastenango to Tikal | Head to the famous market at
Chichicastenango with its colourful food stalls and local handicrafts and browse the exciting
wares on offer. In the late afternoon, transfer to Guatemala City for a scheduled flight to Flores, the gateway to Tikal.
a full-day guided tour. Look out for wildlife as you coatis, toucans and monkeys all call this area
home. If you’re feeling adventurous, scale one or more temples for spectacular views.
Day 7 Tikal to the Cayo District | Cross the
border into Belize by road and plunge into this
vast highland stretch of rainforests, ranches, and
diving and snorkelling excursions if you’d like to, amazing and colourful marine life found in the waters.
Days 13-14 Fly to the UK | Take the short flight back to Belize City before connecting to your overnight flight back to the UK via the USA.
some of Belize’s most remote and rugged terrain. Day 8 Cayo District | Wonder at the scenery
as you travel through the Cayo District. Stop off at the mysterious Barton Creek cave system
after passing through a traditional Mennonite
community. At the cave system, gently paddle
your canoe along the scenic creek and into the dark cave, once a ceremonial centre and burial site for the ancient Maya.
Day 9 Cayo District | Take advantage of a free
day to explore and go on some of the excursions
offered by your lodge, such as river tubing, hiking to nearby waterfalls or swimming in the Macal
River. There are nearby ruins at Xunantunich and Caracol that can also be explored.
Day 10 Cayo District to Ambergris Caye |
After a brief flight, arrive in Ambergris Caye, the largest of Belize’s islands that lies parallel to the magnificent Belize Barrier Reef. Amazingly, this
island was created by the Maya when they dug a channel between it and Mexico.
Days 11-12 Ambergris Caye | Enjoy the laidback atmosphere, white sand and turquoise
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Iwokrama
Georgetown
Guyana Venezuela
Kaieteur Falls Surama
Suriname
Karanambu Brazil
Guyana
T
he experiences that await adventurous travellers in Guyana hold few equals. This country boasts incredible, pristine rainforests, open savannahs and spectacular waterfalls, not to mention vast populations of exotic wildlife and bird species.
Delve into Guyana’s lush forest and try to spot the ‘neo-tropical Big Five’ in their natural habitats: jaguar, giant river otter (called ‘waterdogs’ by the locals!), giant anteater, black caiman and harpy eagle. Guyana is also home to diverse wonders such as the Kaieteur Falls (five times higher than the Niagara Falls), inspirational rainforest conservationists Iwokrama, and Diane McTurk’s Giant otter orphanage.
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Guyana is not just about the wildlife, though. It also offers an incredible opportunity to travel amongst and learn from the indigenous communities in the rainforest. Immerse yourself in local villages by staying at one of the simple community-run guesthouses. Many properties here are basic – some even without electricity – but there is no better way to really connect with a culture than to experience their lives as they live them. More than anything, Guyana’s tourism infrastructure is an impressive example of community tourism at work and is growing stronger by the year.
Possessing some of the most dramatic rainforest and jaw-dropping scenery in the tropics, Englishspeaking Guyana is one of the last true wildernesses on the planet
Top Tips • • • • •
See the endangered Giant otter at Karanambu Wonder at the thunderous Kaieteur Falls Visit the Amerindian rainforest communities Learn about the rainforest at Iwokrama Try to spot the elusive jaguar and the Harpy eagle
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO The climate in Guyana is typically hot, with average daily temperatures of 27C. The north has two wet seasons in May to June and December to February. The south and the Rupununi have only one wet season in May to August. GETTING THERE There are no direct flights from the UK to Guyana. The most popular routes are flying with British Airways to Barbados or Port of Spain and onwards to Georgetown with either Liat or Caribbean airlines. GMT -4 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Guyana. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Guyana.
Kaieteur Falls
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Guyana Nature Tour
Jaguar in Iwokrama Rainforest
small group tour
This two-week small group tour showcases Guyana’s breathtaking natural wonders along with its cultural and wildlife highlights. See the Kaieteur and Orinduik Falls, visit the Iwokrama Conservation Centre and stay at Karanambu, home to giant river otters. While you’re on this trip, you’ll have the chance to interact with, and learn from, the indigenous communities that live in Guyana’s forests – a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for adventurous souls. Day 1 Fly to Georgetown | Fly into Georgetown
Day 7 Surama | Follow a forest trail in search of
there. You will meet the craftspeople and builders,
hotel.
to the Amerindian village of Surama where you
the Black caiman.
where you will be met and transferred to your
Day 2 Kaieteur Falls | Fly to the Kaieteur Falls,
passing over the Demerara and Essequibo Rivers. Land on the local airstrip and visit the awe-
inspiring falls, nearly five times higher than the Niagara Falls.
Day 3 Kaieteur Falls to Iwokrama | Take a
scheduled flight over the rainforest and then travel by 4x4 to your lodge in the Iwokrama
Rainforest. Spend the afternoon exploring jungle trails inside one of the last remaining untouched tropical forests.
Day 4 Iwokrama | Take an early morning boat down the Essequibo River for some bird-
watching. After breakfast, climb to the peak of
Turtle Mountain for incredible canopy views and
the chance of wildlife spotting. In the afternoon, head to see the Amerindian petroglyphs at Kurupukari Falls.
Day 5 Iwokrama | After a morning wildlife walk, head out in a 4x4 to a new rainforest lodge and try to spot jaguar, tapir, agouti, and many more exciting rainforest animals along with exciting rainforest birds as you travel the roads.
Day 6 Iwokrama | Strike out for the incredible canopy walkway (up to 30m high) at dawn for
birdwatching and monkey-spotting. Spend the
day around the lodge searching for animals, birds and even checking out the local tree species for those interested in botany.
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the Guianan Cock-of-the-rock, and later travel
will spend the night, tucked deep in the rainforest and surrounded by hills. Find yourself welcomed by the local people and later, enjoy an evening wildlife walk.
Day 8 Surama | Head out to climb Surama
Mountain before dawn for beautiful views over
the village and savannah. Later climb down and
enjoy lunch in the village before heading out for a three-mile walk to spot Giant river otters.
Day 9 Annai | Take a 4x4 along a road that
winds through the savannah and foothills of the
Pakaraima Mountains, home to many exciting bird species and dotted with termite mounds.
Day 10 Karanambu | Travel in a leisurely manner by road and boat to Karanambu Ranch and try to
spot Jabiru Stork, toucans, and maybe Giant river otters. Once you are settled into the ranch, head out to watch the Victoria Regis waterlily bloom in the dusk.
Day 11 Karanambu | Enjoy a day at leisure to take advantage of the excellent bird and
wildlife spotting opportunities around the ranch, including the Spotted Puffbird and Striped Woodcreeper.
Day 12 Caiman House | Take an early morning
trip into the savannah in search of giant anteaters. Later, head out on to the Rupununi River in search of otters and birds, then travel by boat to Caiman House to witness the development projects
and if you’d like to you can aid in a field study on
Day 13 Georgetown | After breakfast, take the short flight to Georgetown and enjoy a city tour of this former Dutch fortress settlement. Visit
the national museum, the botanical gardens and the zoo. In the evening, enjoy a meal made by
a local culinary master who loves to get guests involved with the cooking!
Days 14-15 Fly to the UK | Transfer to the
airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
Birdwatching in Guyana
Cock-of-the-rock
Suggested Itinerary
Guyana is the perfect destination for eager birders, both experienced neotropical birders and those keen to broaden their knowledge in a pristine wilderness environment. This tour takes in four key destinations, all with excellent birdwatching opportunities, from the 35m-high Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, to teeming Atta Rainforest, to the Amerindian community of Surama and lastly the varied habitats in Karanambu. Day 1 Fly to Georgetown | Upon arrival into
Day 5 Atta Rainforest | Spend the day
Day 9 Karanambu | Begin birdwatching at
your hotel. Georgetown is Guyana’s capital city,
the walkway, or head out along the jungle trails.
boat or Land Rover to various forest locations.
Georgetown, you will be met and transferred to teeming with local heritage and culture. Dine at
The Bottle Restaurant, known locally as the best in the country.
Day 2 Georgetown to Iwokrama | Take a
light aircraft and then a 4x4 to Iwokrama. This
rainforest covers one million acres, and today you will delve into it. Follow the Screaming Piha Trail, home to Bronzy Jacamar, Chestnut & Waved Woodpicker, Violaceous Trogons, and many more.
Day 3 Iwokrama Rainforest | Get an early start on the Essequibo River and enjoy the
dawn birdsong. After breakfast, set out by boat to the foot of Turtle Mountain, keeping an eye
out for Harpy Eagles along the way. Explore the
local trails around the turtle Ponds and climb to 900ft to take in panoramic rainforest views and
hopefully many bird sightings. As night falls, set out in search of night birds and perhaps even caiman or puma.
Day 4 Iwokrama to Atta Rainforest | Enjoy
morning birding along trails close to the lodge,
seeking out the Buff-throated Foliage-gleaner and Olivaceous Woodcreeper among many
others. Later take a 4x4 through the heart of
Iwokrama Forest, with more excellent birding opportunities, and then continue on to the
Iwokrama Canopy Walkway where you may spot
birdwatching from the mid and upper canopy on Spend time too in the clearing around your lodge, one of the best places to see one of Guyana’s ‘must-see’ birds: the Crimson Fruitcrow.
Day 6 Atta Rainforest to Surama | Before
breakfast, you can take the chance for some
more early-morning birding. Later depart for the
Cock-of-the-rock trail to hopefully have your first view of one of these amazing birds. Press on to the Amerindian community of Surama and the
diverse range of species in this area. The highlight of any stay here is a sighting of the Rufous-
winged Ground-cuckoo, although it can be tough to find. Night birding is also on offer today.
sunrise and enjoy a full day, heading out either by You may see Wood Stork and Pied Lapwing along the river, or perhaps Double Striped Thick-knees in the grasslands.
Day 10 Karanambu to Georgetown | In the early morning, go out around the lodge for
more birding or head out into the savannah to
try to spot the Giant Anteater. Later, fly back to Georgetown and visit the Botanical Gardens
where you will see Pearl Kite, Red-bellied Macaw, and so many more.
Days 11-12 Fly to the UK | Transfer to the
airport for the overnight flight back to the UK.
Day 7 Surama | An early morning start will
set you up for a day of birding around Surama.
Look out for Lilac-tailed Parrotlet, Ashy-headed greenlets, and Finsch’s Euphonia among many others. Lucky visitors will encounter Great and Paradise Jacamars, Helmeted Pygmy-Tyrants, and more.
Day 8 Surama to Karanambu | Enjoy a final
morning of birding before transferring across an amazing variety of ecosystems, from light
forest to savannah to the Rupununi River. Upon arrival at Karanambu, head out for more birding
in woodland patches, gallery forest or grasslands near the lodge.
Caica Parrots, Screaming Piha and more.
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San Pedro Lamanai Belize City Cayo District
Mexico
Placencia
Belize
Guatemala
Honduras
El Salvador Nicaragua
Belize
B
elize is a mecca for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those simply keen to relax in lush tropical rainforest surroundings. Belize is rightly prized for its ancient Mayan ruins, vibrant rainforest, and its colourful barrier reef – the second largest in the world.
On the south coast of the mainland, around Placencia, a range of eclectic hotels in small beach towns are ideal for a few days of snorkelling and relaxing under the tropical sun.
Northern Belize is famed for its dense jungle. In fact, it’s one of the best places for wildlife spotting. Hundreds of bird species flit through the trees, and lucky travellers might even catch a glimpse of the elusive jaguar. While you’re there, Rainbow recommends stopping off at the incredible jungle-clad Mayan site of Lamanai. Head south and you’ll hit the Toledo District with its strong Garifuna culture. Home to traditional villages, pristine rainforest and vast nature reserves, this is an unmissable stop. Belize’s beaches and cayes offer a little slice of Caribbean heaven away from their busier island cousins. Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, reached by either water taxi or light aircraft, boast white sands and turquoise waters. 90
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...Proving that size doesn’t matter, Central America’s second-smallest nation punches well above its weight in history and culture.
Top Tips • •
• • •
Visit ruins left by one of the world’s most fascinating cultures: the Maya Relax on idyllic Caribbean beaches away from the crowds found at more popular Caribbean destinations Visit traditional villages and meet the locals in the Toledo District Delve into the jungle and perhaps spot the tracks of the elusive jaguar Snorkel in turquoise waters over a vibrant coral reef
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO The best time of year to visit Belize is between December and May. Other months can see prolonged periods of rain, and Belize may be affected by tropical storms and hurricanes between July and October. GETTING THERE There are no direct flights from the UK to Belize. The most popular route is flying via Miami with British Airways, United Airlines and/ or American Airways. GMT -6 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Belize, although if you fly via the USA an ESTA is needed. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Belize.
Jaguar, North Belize
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Cayo District A dreamy destination for any nature lover or adventurer, the Cayo District – also known as the ‘Highlands of Belize’ – is blanketed in lush rainforest that plays host to more than 500 species of bird. We strongly recommend setting a morning aside to rise with the sun and head out for a dawn birdwatching experience, where you will witness a new world coming alive as the light grows under the canopy.
Chaa Creek Lodge
Explore the lush jungle and pine forests, wonder at deep cave systems and enigmatic Mayan ruins, and linger by tumultuous waterfalls and secretive emerald pools. Undertake activities like zip-lining, horse riding through the forest or perhaps tubing down the river. Hear the ferocious cries of howler monkeys echoing through the trees, and keep your eyes peeled for signs of the elusive jaguar.
Gaia Riverlodge
| This
award-winning eco-lodge is set on
Perched above Five Sisters
acres of private nature reserve.
Ridge Forest Reserve, Gaia
the banks of the Macal River in 365
Waterfalls in Belize’s Mountain Pine
Peccaries, monkeys and over 300
Riverlodge runs entirely off its own
species of bird can be spotted in the grounds. There are 23 comfortable,
palm-thatched cottage rooms with decks, along with a hilltop spa, large eco-friendly pool and jungle bar.
|
hydropower. This eco-lodge
provides exceptional service and is
the deserved owner of a Green Globe Award for its sustainable model. Choose from the cabanas or take a room in the main building
Orange Walk Responsible for much of Belize’s food and sugar production, the Orange Walk district is home to agricultural farmland as well as dense jungle, ancient Mayan ruins and well-protected wildlife conservation areas. It is a cultural melting pot, with Creole, Maya and Mennonite communities all living alongside one another and offering the curious traveller a fascinating insight into these societies. Mayan sites such as Altun Ha and the famous ruins at Lamanai and the thick rainforest around them have been the focus of intense preservation efforts over the last few years, and some endangered wildlife has even begun to thrive. Pumas, ocelots, margays and jaguarundi are all on the prowl, and chances of a jaguar spotting in the wild are better here than almost anywhere else – although you still have to be very lucky!
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Lamanai Outpost Lodge | Lamanai Lodge is the
place to visit if you are looking for a truly special jungle experience.
Situated on the banks of a 28-mile
lagoon amid the remnants of a Maya city, Lamanai Lodge is a beautiful
and isolated 18-cabana property. Visitors to the lodge can enjoy a range of activities such as jungle dawn excursions, sunrise canoe trips, visits to the
nearby Lamanai ruins, a sunset cocktail cruise, night walks, howler monkey treks and bird watching outings.
Toledo District You may have heard the Toledo District, one of Belize’s top ecotourism destinations, described as the `last frontier’. It comprises a half-dozen rivers, rainforests, parks, and reserves, and even more modern Maya villages. The capital, Punta Gorda, is a relaxed seaside Caribbean community with just a dozen streets. Explore thriving indigenous towns and learn about traditional music and textiles, or step back in time and visit any of the numerous archaeological sites in the region such as Lubaantun, the purported home of the famous `crystal skull’. Tour one of the many cacao farms, learn how to make chocolate from scratch, or even plan a trip during Toledo’s Chocolate Festival of Belize in May. Staying in the Toledo District means access to unspoilt jungle, secluded Mayan sites and an insight into local culture as well as a jumping off point for fantastic snorkelling, diving and fishing.
Copal Tree Lodge
| This
tranquil hotel boasts 16 comfortable suites with screened verandas. The hilltop main lodge is the communal
heart of the resort, with a wraparound balcony, dining and lounge areas, rum
and coffee bars, an inviting swimming
pool and observation decks offering stunning views.
Hickatee Cottages
| This
tranquil, six-room hideaway offers the best of both worlds. Set in the jungle, you can enjoy bed and breakfast and a mile of nature trails in the hotel
grounds, yet you are only a couple of miles from ‘downtown’ Punta Gorda.
PLACENCIA & South Coast Placencia is a former Creole fishing village located on the tip of a long, sandy peninsula and boasts some of the best mainland beaches in Belize. This relaxed spot is the perfect base for diving or for heading inland on day trips. Hopkins village is also a popular destination for sun-seekers, with a friendly and laid-back atmosphere. Whilst Hopkins has grown in popularity, the area is said to have retained its coastal charm and resisted over-commercialisation. The coastline that stretches southwards from Belize City in the Stann Creek District offers a real insight into the fascinating Garifuna culture. As you head through this region, you’ll pass by lush palm groves, citrus trees, small towns and villages and miles of tranquil coastline. Both Hopkins and Placencia are a good base from which to take a trip to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s first jaguar sanctuary.
Turtle Inn
| This 25-room
seafront hideaway combines natural
wonders with stylish luxury in both its rooms, two restaurants and spa.
Thatched cottages are decorated
with handcrafted Balinese furnishings
and, just steps from your private deck,
the white-sand beach dissolves into the sparkling Caribbean Sea.
...friendly and laid-back, this is the ultimate destination for sun-seekers...
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Belize’s Cayes
Blue Hole
Well-known as a top diving and snorkelling destination, Belize’s palm-fringed beaches, boutique resorts and turquoise waters can compete with the best of the Caribbean. The cayes and islands off the mainland coast of Belize are delightful places to stay before or after exploring the country’s colonial treasures, Mayan ruins and rainforest trails. With its pretty white sandy beaches and easy access to the second
Victoria House
| Victoria
choice of 42 ocean-view casitas and
with beachfront rooms and a variety
hotel, is relaxed and informal,
serving superb local seafood. There
is a large swimming pool and a nearby white sand beach perfect for
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RAINBOW TOURS
| This serene
resort on Ambergris Caye boasts
private villas. The restaurant, like the
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Portofino
House is known for its exclusivity
and exceptional service, offering a
sun-bathing.
largest coral reef in the world, just a mile offshore, Ambergris Caye is a lovely place to unwind. Many divers will head for the reef off the coast of Belize and the famous Blue Hole. For those wishing to remain on the mainland, Rainbow recommends heading to Placencia or Hopkins; these relaxed Caribbean villages boast a range of beachside properties with access to stunning beaches and sparkling waters.
eight ocean-view cabanas, along
of suites. The hotel has a restaurant that serves European food, a bar,
and offers a beach drinks service.
During the day, you can enjoy diving, deep sea fishing and snorkelling.
Belize Mayan Discovery & Beach
Placencia
Suggested Itinerary
This comprehensive itinerary delves deep into the heart of Belize’s historic and natural wonders. Combining mysterious Mayan sites, rivers, jungle and the turquoise Caribbean waters off the coast, this is the ideal introduction to this small but fascinating country. Start in the remote Orange Walk District and stop off at Lamanai, one of the Belize’s major Mayan cities. Take boat trips to spot incredible native wildlife and let yourself get lost in this beautiful destination. Day 1 Fly to Miami | Fly into Miami (or another
Day 7 Cayo District | Enjoy another day at
Days 14-15 Fly to the UK | Take a short flight
Day 2 Miami to Belize City to Lamanai | In
the largest Mayan site in Belize. Its towering
overnight flight back to the UK.
US hub) and enjoy a night in this buzzing city.
the morning make the short flight to Belize City, where you will be met and transferred north to
the Orange Walk District. This steamy jungle area sees few visitors and you can spend your days
being intrepid explorers before retreating back to a comfortable lodge, surrounded by jungle.
Day 3 Lamanai | With your lodge so close to the archaeological site at Lamanai, you can
access these incredible ruins well before many
other visitors arrive. As you wander amongst the
temples and trees, listen out for howler monkeys and watch for crocodiles in the nearby lagoon. Day 4 Lamanai | Choose from a variety of
excursions including dawn or night-time jungle walks, canoe expeditions, lessons in traditional
Mayan medicine and a variety of river boat trips – including a sunset cocktail cruise! All excursions are accompanied by a naturalist guide who can point out wildlife.
Day 5 Lamanai to the Cayo District | Travel
by boat and by road to the Cayo District, where you will spend three nights at an eco-lodge, surrounded by flora and fauna.
Day 6 Cayo District | Spend today at your
leisure, exploring one of the world’s most pristine ecosystems. Relax by the pool or take advantage
of the excursions Rainbow can organise including outings to waterfalls, caves, or more Mayan sites.
leisure. We highly recommend a visit to Caracol, pyramid rises over 140ft from the jungle floor. On
back to Belize City and connect on to your
the way back from the site, take a cooling dip in nearby freshwater pools.
Day 8 Cayo District to Punta Gorda | Take a
short flight to Punta Gorda in the Toledo District, often referred to as Belize’s ‘Forgotten District’. Discover unspoilt natural beauty, a melting pot
of cultures and astonishing diversity of life from the jungle to the nearby reefs and local Mayan villages.
Day 9 Toledo District | Pass the next two
days at leisure to relax or strike out on any of
the activities offered at your accommodation. Explore the river by kayak or canoe, meander
through tropical gardens or take a guided hike through the rainforest.
Day 10 Toledo District | On the second day in the district, pick from many activities such
as horse riding, exploring nearby Mayan ruins,
visiting a cacao farm or venturing along the local spice trail.
Day 11 Punta Gorda to Placencia | Take a short flight to the Placencia Peninsula and transfer to a peaceful beachfront hotel for some rest and relaxation.
Days 12-13 Placencia | Over these two days, either explore the region or simply stretch out
on the beach to enjoy the warm Caribbean Sea. Perhaps go snorkelling, or take a tour of the Cockscomb Jaguar Reserve.
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Honduras
El Salvador Nicaragua
León Corn Islands Managua Granada Lake Nicaragua Ometepe Island San Juan del Sur San Carlos
Costa Rica
Nicaragua
W
ith its lush rainforests, colonial towns, volcanic islands and coffee farms, Nicaragua rewards the curious traveller over and over again. It is the largest country in Central America and contains an incredible mix of cultures and heritages, including indigenous tribes on the Mosquito Coast who still speak their own languages alongside Spanish. This diverse history has resulted in an incredible range of folklore, cuisine, music and literature.
The highlights of a trip to ‘the land of lakes and volcanoes’ include a stay on the volcanic island of Ometepe, a beach escape at San Juan del Sur and the chance to explore the beautiful cobbled streets of Granada and León. It’s worth delving a little deeper, though. In Nicaragua you can tackle testing hikes to the summit of both dormant and active volcanoes, gain unique insights into the thriving coffee industry, and while away the hours relaxing on the beach on the Caribbean Corn Islands. Time spent on the Corn Islands will remind you of a simpler life, the way 96
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holidays used to be on their cousins to the north east before the crowds descended and the luxury resorts appeared.
...Sandwiched between beautiful Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, Nicaragua boasts unparalleled beauty, strong cultural heritage and an immense variety of sights and experiences.
Top Tips • • • • •
Have a coffee and people watch in colonial Granada Hike to the summit of the Maderas Volcano on Ometepe Surf, fish or just soak up the rays in San Juan del Sur Relax into a simpler way of life on the Caribbean Corn Islands Journey to León and visit the largest cathedral in Central America
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO The best time to visit Nicaragua is between December and May. Central America has a long rainy season, although the characteristic of these months tends to be bright sunny mornings, followed by afternoon showers. September and October can be quite rainy. On the coast and at lower altitudes it is hot and humid throughout the year. GETTING THERE There are no direct flights to Nicaragua from the UK. The best way to get to Managua (the capital city) is with a US airline, such as American Airlines, who fly on a daily basis via their hubs. GMT -6 hours VISAS British citizens do not require a visa to enter Nicaragua. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Nicaragua.
Concepción Volcano, Ometepe Island
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97
Costa Rica San Blas Archipelago
Bocas del Toro Panama Canal
Panama
Panama City Darien Gap
Colombia
PANAMA
P
anama’s role as a regional crossroads has shaped its history. Acting both as a corridor between South and Central America, and more recently as a link between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, this narrow S-shaped isthmus of land boasts incredible rainforests and cloud forests, towering peaks, idyllic beaches, bounteous wildlife, and a fascinating cultural heritage. No one travelling to Panama should miss visiting the famous Panama Canal. At 80km long and completed in 1914, this astonishing feat of engineering now sees some 14,000 vessels a year traverse its length. Panama City itself is home to an almost Miami-style waterfront as well as the beautiful Casco Viejo (the old town), now a UNESCO World Heritage Site being gradually restored to its former grandeur.
Don’t miss the verdant coffee plantations or the cloud forest around Boquete and in Barú Volcano National Park, where you can follow winding trails in search of the famous Resplendant Quetzal. Panama’s coastline is worth adding to your itinerary too. With tropical islands, coral reefs and deserted beaches, it’s a paradise just waiting to be discovered. The San Blas Islands are home to native Kuna Indians, and their crystal-clear waters and palm-fringed shores are a siren call for those wishing to relax and soak up the sun.
...Panama is more than just its famous canal. Its diverse landscape is made up of volcanic highlands, coastal plains and orchid-filled rainforests. 98
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Top Tips • • • • •
Wonder at the engineering of the Panama Canal Visit indigenous communities on the San Blas Islands Hike the Quetzal Trail through the cloud forest in the Barú Volcano National Park Keep an eye out for exotic bird species in Soberanía National Park Swim or snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Bocas del Toro
TRAVEL Information WHEN TO GO The best time to visit Panama is between November and April, which is considered the dry season. During the wet seasons, visitors may experience rainfall for a couple of hours each day. GETTING THERE Iberia flies to Panama City from the UK via Madrid and KLM flies via Amsterdam. Alternatively fly via the USA. You can also fly via Bogotá with Avianca. GMT -5 hours VISAS British Citizens do not require a visa to enter Panama. HEALTH There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Panama.
Red-eyed Tree Frog
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Responsible T AVELLER
R
ainbow Tours is committed to responsible travel. From our very conception, we’ve had the communities and wildlife that we visit at the heart of everything we do. When Roger Diski established Rainbow Tours in 1997 he forged long-lasting working relationships with local communities, allowing us to craft journeys that benefit the country we’re visiting without compromising on the experience. When tourism is carefully managed it can make a huge positive impact. We, the travel company, and you, the traveller, can decide how and where we travel – choosing journeys that leave the natural beauty of the destinations we visit unchanged; journeys where you get to experience and understand other people and their cultures. We’re constantly growing our responsible tourism programme. Many of our chosen partner properties across Latin America have introduced robust environmental and social programmes and we continue to work with development schemes and charities. In September 2016 we chose to support Condor Wings, a project which works with Huatata Preschool and Primary School in Peru. Around 40 minutes from Cuzco, the school educates 49 children from the surrounding regions. Because of a very poor diet, 85% of the children suffer
from anaemia, so Rainbow Tours has chosen to fund an increase in regular food supplies. Contributions have also paid for a vegetable garden, enabling the children to add fresh produce to their diet and learn about growing their own food. Recently, a member of our team travelled to Peru with 40kg of children’s clothing donated by members of Rainbow Tours and its sister companies. In Parismina, a remote town on the Caribbean coastline of Costa Rica, the Save the Turtles of Parismina Association is a non-profit organisation run by the community. Locals conserve the nesting beach habitats of green, leatherback, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles, and protect their eggs from poachers by volunteering with conservation projects, guarding nesting turtles, counting egg clutch sizes, recording turtle tagging numbers and relocating eggs. The project encourages sustainable development by providing an alternative source of income to poaching, but work is seasonal to match the turtles’ breeding patterns. Between June and September, when there is no hatching or nesting, Parismina plans to introduce opportunities including recycling, clean-up projects and tourism education, to provide stable year-round income. We’re proud to have been supporting this development.
WE DONATE
Responsible Travel
Rainbow Tours donate £15 for every booking to Costa Rica to the Save the Turtles of Parismina Association and £15 for every booking to Peru to Condor Wings. 100
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2 Waterhouse Square London, EC1N 2ST Tel: 020 7666 1260 Web: www.rainbowtours.co.uk Email: [email protected]