inca explorer - sunspot tours · 2018. 6. 18. · inca explorer tour dossier 2 accommodation all...

6
1 Encompassing the dense tropical rainforest of the Amazon, the arid desert region of Nazca, the dune-filled beaches of Paracas and the snow-capped volcanic peaks of Arequipa, Peru offers a dramatically varied landscape and spectacular biodiversity. Take in Peru’s breath-taking natural beauty and rich history as you fly over the intricate etchings of the Nazca Lines, wander the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu and explore the sacred Incan temples of Cusco. This document aims to give you all the information that you require for a smooth and comfortable trip to Peru. Please take the time to read this dossier to familiarise yourself with all the aspects of our tour. It includes important information such as flight details, visa requirements and travel insurance. Your included meal guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner DAY 1: UK to Lima Depart London on your scheduled overnight flight to Lima, via Bogota. DAY 2: Lima to Paracas L/D Start your day with a scenic 6-7 hour drive from Lima to Paracas, stopping for lunch along the way. Check into your beachfront hotel on the edge of the Paracas National Reserve Park, a unique protected area where tropical desert dunes run down to the sea’s edge. At the centre of the park, the picturesque Ballestas Islands teem with more than 200 species of birds, while sea lions, penguins and dolphins roam the waters and lounge on rocky outcrops. Sip on Peru’s beloved national drink during a late afternoon pisco sour tasting, before enjoying your first taste of Peru’s fantastic culinary delights at tonight’s welcome dinner. DAY 3: Paracas to Nazca B Board a shared boat for the morning’s excursion to the Ballestas Islands, and the chance to see porpoises leaping through the surf, pelicans and cormorants swooping over the water and the famous prehistoric Paracas Candelabra petroglyph etched into the waterside dunes. Back on land, trace your way to the city of Nazca, stopping to visit a local winery and explore a traditional pottery studio. Stunning Huacachina Lagoon, your next stop, is a palm-fringed oasis nestled in the barren desert region of Peru. With a handful of quaint shops and dwellings lining the water’s edge, the lagoon makes for a unique and quirky pit stop before your overnight stay in Nazca. DAY 4: Nazca to Arequipa B/L The origin and purpose of the Nazca Lines — a multitude of intricate geometric patterns and figures etched into the rock of Peru’s Nazca Desert — has been the subject of mystery and research for decades. The hundreds of figures range in complexity from simple lines to stylized hummingbirds, spiders, llamas and lizards, some as long as the Empire State Building. Get a bird’s eye view of this fascinating archaeological feature on a 25-minute flight over the lines (subject to weather conditions. Enjoy a packed lunch as you continue on to Chauchilla Cemetery, the burial ground of astonishingly well-preserved mummified corpses which date back to AD 800. Although heavily ransacked by grave robbers over the years, this ancient site has been painstakingly restored to its original state, and centuries-old cloth remnants, pottery shards and bone fragments still litter the grounds. Next, a long drive along the coastline takes you to the city of Arequipa for the night. (Please note: The journey from Nazca to Arequipa takes up to 11 hours, with a portion of that time spent exploring Chauchilla Cemetery). DAY 5: Arequipa B The snow-capped peak of the Arequipa volcano creates a dramatic backdrop to the city. Enjoy today at leisure, giving you the chance to explore Arequipa at your own pace. Why not visit the city’s historic downtown area and its characteristic white volcanic stone buildings? Admire the aged colonial buildings of the Main Square, the ornate fresco paintings of the San Ignacio Dome, the intricately carved stonework of the Church of the Society of Jesus or the dramatic Spanish-style citadel of the Santa Catalina Convent. DAY 6: Arequipa to Cusco B After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco. On arrival, embark on a half-day city tour where you’ll explore the remnants of the city’s Incan and colonial past. Marvel at the gold and silver-leafed walls and skilful masonry of the Incas at Koricancha, enjoy the vibrancy of the colonial city square at the Plaza de Armas and explore the Cusco Cathedral with its ornately carved woodwork, crypts and paintings. Explore the masterfully-constructed Incan rock fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the underground cave and temple of Kenko, and take in the panoramic views over the rocky ruins of Puca Pucara, an ancient military fort. Wander through Tambomachay, the Baths of the Inca where aqueducts and canals flow and pool in sacred baths, before stopping at “Inka’s Expression” workshop to watch local artisans create beautiful silver pieces, paintings and wood carvings. DAY 7: Cusco B/L Journey by train to Peru’s most famous Incan citadel, Machu Picchu. A full- day tour takes you around the tombs, temples and palaces of this ancient city of ruins, believed to be built for an Incan emperor. A city never uncovered by colonizing Spaniards, the structures and agricultural terraces of Machu Picchu are an untouched testament to the culture of a lost civilization. Set between two forested Andean peaks beneath swirling clouds, with llamas often roaming the mountainside, the 550-year-old site offers spectacular views in addition to its archaeological wonders. Have lunch in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes and journey home by train after the day’s tour. DAY 8: Cusco to Puerto Maldonado B/L/D Fly to the city of Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, and travel by boat to Corto Maltes Lodge, a rustic lodge in a magnificent Amazonian setting. After lunch, trek to a brazil nut harvesting camp and learn more about this important Peruvian staple crop and its cultivation. Back at the lodge, relax by the pool or unwind in a hammock on the terrace before a night-time pre-dinner boat excursion to observe lurking caimans and the nocturnal animals of the Amazon. PLEASE NOTE: It is important that you bring only necessary clothing and equipment to the lodge. Due to weight and space limitations on the boat, passenger luggage is limited to 10 kg. (22 lbs.) Per person. continued on next page ITINERARY & DETAILS TRIP OVERVIEW INCA EXPLORER YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

Upload: others

Post on 25-Sep-2020

3 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: INCA EXPLORER - Sunspot Tours · 2018. 6. 18. · INCA EXPLORER TOUR DOSSIER 2 Accommodation All accommodation is 3H with en-suite facilities, heating/air-conditioning, TV and tea/coffee

1

Encompassing the dense tropical rainforest of the Amazon, the arid desert region of Nazca, the dune-filled beaches of Paracas and the snow-capped volcanic peaks of Arequipa, Peru offers a dramatically varied landscape and spectacular biodiversity. Take in Peru’s breath-taking natural beauty and rich history as you fly over the intricate etchings of the Nazca Lines, wander the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu and explore the sacred Incan temples of Cusco.

This document aims to give you all the information that you require for a smooth and comfortable trip to Peru. Please take the time to read this dossier to familiarise yourself with all the aspects of our tour. It includes important information such as flight details, visa requirements and travel insurance.

Your included meal guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner DAY 1: UK to Lima Depart London on your scheduled overnight flight to Lima, via Bogota.

DAY 2: Lima to Paracas L/D Start your day with a scenic 6-7 hour drive from Lima to Paracas, stopping for lunch along the way. Check into your beachfront hotel on the edge of the Paracas National Reserve Park, a unique protected area where tropical desert dunes run down to the sea’s edge. At the centre of the park, the picturesque Ballestas Islands teem with more than 200 species of birds, while sea lions, penguins and dolphins roam the waters and lounge on rocky outcrops. Sip on Peru’s beloved national drink during a late afternoon pisco sour tasting, before enjoying your first taste of Peru’s fantastic culinary delights at tonight’s welcome dinner.

DAY 3: Paracas to Nazca B Board a shared boat for the morning’s excursion to the Ballestas Islands, and the chance to see porpoises leaping through the surf, pelicans and cormorants swooping over the water and the famous prehistoric Paracas Candelabra petroglyph etched into the waterside dunes. Back on land, trace your way to the city of Nazca, stopping to visit a local winery and explore a traditional pottery studio. Stunning Huacachina Lagoon, your next stop, is a palm-fringed oasis nestled in the barren desert region of Peru. With a handful of quaint shops and dwellings lining the water’s edge, the lagoon makes for a unique and quirky pit stop before your overnight stay in Nazca.

DAY 4: Nazca to Arequipa B/L The origin and purpose of the Nazca Lines — a multitude of intricate geometric patterns and figures etched into the rock of Peru’s Nazca Desert — has been the subject of mystery and research for decades. The hundreds of figures range in complexity from simple lines to stylized hummingbirds, spiders, llamas and lizards, some as long as the Empire State Building. Get a bird’s eye view of this fascinating archaeological feature on a 25-minute flight over the lines (subject to weather conditions. Enjoy a packed lunch as you continue on to Chauchilla Cemetery, the burial ground of astonishingly well-preserved mummified corpses which date back to AD 800. Although heavily ransacked by grave robbers over the years, this ancient site has been painstakingly restored to its original state, and centuries-old cloth remnants, pottery shards and bone fragments still litter the grounds. Next, a long drive along the coastline takes you to the city of Arequipa for the night. (Please note: The journey from Nazca to Arequipa takes up to 11 hours, with a portion of that time spent exploring Chauchilla Cemetery).

DAY 5: Arequipa B The snow-capped peak of the Arequipa volcano creates a dramatic backdrop to the city. Enjoy today at leisure, giving you the chance to explore Arequipa at your own pace. Why not visit the city’s historic downtown area and its characteristic white volcanic stone buildings? Admire the aged colonial buildings of the Main Square, the ornate fresco paintings of the San Ignacio Dome, the intricately carved stonework of the Church of the Society of Jesus or the dramatic Spanish-style citadel of the Santa Catalina Convent.

DAY 6: Arequipa to Cusco B After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco. On arrival, embark on a half-day city tour where you’ll explore the remnants of the city’s Incan and colonial past. Marvel at the gold and silver-leafed walls and skilful masonry of the Incas at Koricancha, enjoy the vibrancy of the colonial city square at the Plaza de Armas and explore the Cusco Cathedral with its ornately carved woodwork, crypts and paintings. Explore the masterfully-constructed Incan rock fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the underground cave and temple of Kenko, and take in the panoramic views over the rocky ruins of Puca Pucara, an ancient military fort. Wander through Tambomachay, the Baths of the Inca where aqueducts and canals flow and pool in sacred baths, before stopping at “Inka’s Expression” workshop to watch local artisans create beautiful silver pieces, paintings and wood carvings.

DAY 7: Cusco B/L Journey by train to Peru’s most famous Incan citadel, Machu Picchu. A full-day tour takes you around the tombs, temples and palaces of this ancient city of ruins, believed to be built for an Incan emperor. A city never uncovered by colonizing Spaniards, the structures and agricultural terraces of Machu Picchu are an untouched testament to the culture of a lost civilization. Set between two forested Andean peaks beneath swirling clouds, with llamas often roaming the mountainside, the 550-year-old site offers spectacular views in addition to its archaeological wonders. Have lunch in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes and journey home by train after the day’s tour.

DAY 8: Cusco to Puerto Maldonado B/L/D Fly to the city of Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, and travel by boat to Corto Maltes Lodge, a rustic lodge in a magnificent Amazonian setting. After lunch, trek to a brazil nut harvesting camp and learn more about this important Peruvian staple crop and its cultivation. Back at the lodge, relax by the pool or unwind in a hammock on the terrace before a night-time pre-dinner boat excursion to observe lurking caimans and the nocturnal animals of the Amazon.

PLEASE NOTE: It is important that you bring only necessary clothing and equipment to the lodge. Due to weight and space limitations on the boat, passenger luggage is limited to 10 kg. (22 lbs.) Per person.

continued on next page

ITINERARY & DETAILS

TRIP OVERVIEW

INCA EXPLORER

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

PLEASE NOTE: It is important that you bring only necessary clothing and equipment to the lodge. Due to weight and space limitations on the boat, passenger luggage is limited to 10 kg. (22 lbs.) Per person.

Page 2: INCA EXPLORER - Sunspot Tours · 2018. 6. 18. · INCA EXPLORER TOUR DOSSIER 2 Accommodation All accommodation is 3H with en-suite facilities, heating/air-conditioning, TV and tea/coffee

INCA EXPLORER TOUR DOSSIER

2

Accommodation All accommodation is 3H with en-suite facilities, heating/air-conditioning, TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Sunspot Tours have visited and inspected all the hotels to ensure that they meet the high standards we require for our clients. Should any of the hotels listed become unavailable you will be placed in alternative accommodation of the exact same standard. Please note: the hotels listed are provided for guidance only and final confirmation of your accommodation will be sent in a document, along with your final flight information, approximately 10 days before you travel.

Meals Breakfast is always western style and served in the hotel each morning. Lunch and dinner where stated will be taken at local restaurants or at your hotel. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes.

ACCOMMODATION DETAILS & MAP

Pure Peru:Address: Jiron Martir Olaya 201, Office 601m Miraflores, LimaOffice Phone Number: 0051 1 2417 537 / 2417 538E-mail Address: [email protected] OrAddress: Urbanizacion La Florida, Calle Los Geranios F-6A, Wanchaq-Cuzco

Telephone number: 0051 84 238899Email: [email protected] contact informationPlease find below the emergency contact details for Pure Peru24-hour mobile phone number: 0051 9 9563 2971 0051 9 9875 4080

ON YOUR ARRIVAL

Hotel information Paracas (1 night): 3H San Agustin Paracas Hotel Address: Chaco de la Puntilla s/n, Paracas, Peru Phone: 0051 56 580 420 Nazca (1 night): 3H Casa Andina Standard Address: Francisco Bolognesi 367, Nazca, Peru Phone: 0051 56 523 563 Arequipa (2 nights): 3H Casa Andina Standard Address: Jerusalén 603, Arequipa, Peru Phone: 0051 54 202 070 Cusco (2 nights): 3H Agustos Hotel Address: Av. Hipólito Unanue 155 Distrito Wanchaq, Cusco 08000, Peru Phone: 0051 84 222 712 Puerto Maldonado (3 nights): Corto Maltes Lodge Address: Rio Madre de Dios Km 9, Puerto Maldonado, Peru Phone: 0051 82 5 573 831 Lima (2 nights): 3H Runcu Hotel Address: Avenida de la Aviación 139, Distrito de Lima 15074, Peru Phone: 0051 1 7194290

On your arrival in Lima you will be met by a representative from our local agent, Pure Peru, holding a sign displaying: “Sunspot Tours”. The Sunspot Tours/Pure Peru representative will show you to your transfer vehicle. Your local guide will be on hand should you have any queries. However, if you need to contact Pure Peru during your stay the details are:

DAY 9: Puerto Maldonado B/L/D A 3km morning hike through the wildlife haven of Tambopata National Reserve takes you to Lake Sandoval where a ride in a rowboat allows you to appreciate the biodiversity capital of Peru. Spot river otters, macaws, howler monkeys and one of the world’s biggest fresh water fish, the paiche, from your lookout on the river and, conditions permitting, encounter the primates of the Amazon on Monkey Island. Ascend into the treetops after lunch and enjoy animal viewings and a spectacular sunset from the lodge’s two lookout towers. A visit to a shiringuero encampment gives insight into the collection of rubber and takes you into the evening, which can be enjoyed at your leisure.

DAY 10: Puerto Maldonado B/L/D After breakfast, venture downriver by boat to a native farm for a tropical fruit tasting before visiting a native Machiguenga family, one of the ethnic groups of the Peruvian Amazon. Learn about the intriguing customs and language of this group, as they teach visitors about their ayahuasca ceremonies, hunting gear and medicinal plants before sharing one of their unique indigenous dishes. Return to the lodge for an afternoon at leisure and the chance to enjoy a refreshing swim, a cool cocktail or a relaxing massage before dinner.

DAY 11: Puerto Maldonado to Lima B Experience an early morning cacophony of sound and colour at a nearby clay lick, where parrots congregate to nibble on a type of clay native only to this region. After breakfast, a boat will carry you to the city of Puerto Maldonado where you can browse through regional products at a local market before catching your flight to the Peruvian capital of Lima.

DAY 12: Lima B/D Your morning tour of Lima, the City of Kings, takes you past the stately Government Palace, located in the Main Square, to the city cathedral, where the remains of conqueror Francisco Pizarro lie. Explore the highly embellished

cloisters and entryway of San Francisco Monastery and its network of underground catacombs, used as cemeteries during the colonial period. Wander through the picturesque neighbourhood of San Isidro and the modern district of Miraflores with its beautiful parks, squares, cafes and restaurants. Enjoy your afternoon at leisure before tonight’s farewell dinner.

DAY 13: Lima to the UK or extension B After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK, via Bogota, or continue on to your chosen extension.

Lima

Paracas

Nazca

Puerto Maldonado

Arequipa

Cusco

Machu Picchu

<

<

South Pacific

Peru

Lake Titicaca

CoachAir Rail

1 Number of nightsSouth America

2

2

2

3

1

1

Page 3: INCA EXPLORER - Sunspot Tours · 2018. 6. 18. · INCA EXPLORER TOUR DOSSIER 2 Accommodation All accommodation is 3H with en-suite facilities, heating/air-conditioning, TV and tea/coffee

INCA EXPLORER TOUR DOSSIER

3

• Insect repellent and sun cream • Comfortable walking shoes• Waterproof lightweight jacket• Sunglasses and hat• Ruck sack • Binoculars / torch• Camera and charger• Loo paper for public WCs• Long sleeve shirt and long trousers

• Swimwear• Personal toiletries• Multi plug travel adapter - 3 different plug sockets are used, so a multi plug adapter is best-suited• Anti-bacterial hand sanitiser • Altitude sickness medication • First aid kit containing travel pills, rehydration powder, plasters, stomach settlers, antiseptic creams, aspirin, etc.

VisasBritish passport holders are not currently required to obtain a visa to travel to Peru. Further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations’ Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity.

InsuranceWe strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travelinsurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, wehave arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras. To arrange your travel insurance with Holiday Extras, please call 0800 781 4237 and quote ‘WK830’ for preferential rates. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24 hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Sunspot Tours will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.

Health and VaccinationsIt is your responsibility to check any health & vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in sufficient time before your departure. Sources of information include: www.fco.gov.uk, www.travelhealthpro.org.uk, www.hpa. org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.

Altitude SicknessAltitude sickness is a common condition that can occur when you ascend to a high altitude (generally higher than 2,500 metres above sea level) quickly. The decrease in atmospheric pressure can make breathing more difficult as the body is not able to take in as much oxygen. Most cases are mild with symptoms that can include headache, nausea, dizziness and exhaustion. Several of the places in Peru are located at high altitude (over 2,500 metres above sea level) including Puno, Lake Titicaca and Cusco. Therefore, you may find you experience some symptoms at this altitude. It is advised that at these high altitudes, you keep hydrated and avoid alcohol. If you do experience symptoms of altitude sickness during your tour, ensure you tell your guide immediately who will be able to advise the best thing for you to do. You can contact your GP before you travel for advice on medication for altitude sickness.

Physical AccessibilityThis tour is accessible to most people with a good level of fitness and able mobility. It involves climbing of steep stairs, long hikes and getting on and off coaches and boats. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.

Tour GuidesThis is an escorted tour, meaning that a knowledgeable, local English-speaking guide will accompany you on all excursions. On day 2, day 6, day 8, day 11 & day 13, transfers will be provided by a local, English-speaking guide.

TippingTipping is common practice in South America and it is customary to tip approximately USD$2-$4 per person per day, which is split between the driver and the local guide. Tips can be given at the end of each day, or at the end of the tour. Tips are accepted in US dollars and local currencies.

Group SizeThe minimum number of travellers in your group will be 10. If in the unlikely event there are less than 10 people booked on your tour date, we will endeavour to reduce any disruption to your holiday and try to operate your tour with lower passenger numbers. If we are not able to operate your departure date then you may be asked to change to a different date and a full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.

Currency ExchangeThe currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol, the symbol is S/. We recommend that you exchange your currency before you leave the UK. US Dollars are widely accepted in Peru should you wish to keep an alternative currency on you. Cash machines are available in all the major cities to withdraw money in local currency.

Personal ExpensesYou will need to take some extra money with you to cover any personal purchases, such as souvenirs, laundry and extra drinks and snacks. Approximately £400 per person will be sufficient for the duration of the tour.

Credit Card InformationAs normal practice, you will be asked for your credit card details on check-in at the hotel in order to cover any extras incurred during your stay. If you do not have a credit card you may be asked for a cash deposit. American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels.

Itinerary ChangesThe order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions or for operational purposes. For this reason, we have indicated approximate times only. Your local guide will inform you of any schedule changes as they are informed of them. Some road construction and/or weather conditions may lengthen the driving times. Our intention is to adhere to the day-to-day itinerary as printed; however order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions.

FLIGHT INFORMATIONYour initial flight is to Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima (via Bogota) with Avianca (AV), departing from London Heathrow Terminal 2.

Baggage AllowanceBaggage allowance (per person): Each passenger is entitled to 23kg of hold luggage plus one item of hand luggage providing the exterior dimensions (height + length + width) do not exceed 115cm and 10kg in weight. Weight restrictions will be finalised on your e-ticket receipt. Should you wish to take additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check-in. Heathrow Airport advises that check-in should be three hours before your flight departure time.

Airport ExtrasIf you wish to arrange airport car parking, lounges or accommodation at preferential rates, we recommend you book this in advance with Holiday Extras on 0871 360 2000, quoting HX313.

WHAT TO PACK

IMPORTANT: Please note that final flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before departure.

WHAT YOU NEED FOR YOUR TOUR

Page 4: INCA EXPLORER - Sunspot Tours · 2018. 6. 18. · INCA EXPLORER TOUR DOSSIER 2 Accommodation All accommodation is 3H with en-suite facilities, heating/air-conditioning, TV and tea/coffee

INCA EXPLORER TOUR DOSSIER

4

Weather can vary quite considerably throughout the year, so please familiarise yourself with the climate charts below.

WEATHER AND CLIMATE

Average temperature: Paracas

Average temperature: Arequipa

Average temperature: Puerto Maldonado Average temperature: Lima

Average temperature: Cusco

Average temperature: Nazca

Page 5: INCA EXPLORER - Sunspot Tours · 2018. 6. 18. · INCA EXPLORER TOUR DOSSIER 2 Accommodation All accommodation is 3H with en-suite facilities, heating/air-conditioning, TV and tea/coffee

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

HIGHLIGHTS OF COLOMBIA EXTENSION If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so. Please contact your local agent

FLIGHT INFORMATIONPlease note: Final hotel and flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before departure.

TRIP OVERVIEWTake in the highlights of the fascinating country of Colombia, a nation that boasts snow-capped mountain, palm-fringed beaches, lush coffee plantations and centuries-old colonial towns. Visit the mountain capital of Bogota, journey through verdant valleys and explore scenic Pereira before ending up in the picturesque colonial port of Cartagena.

ITINERARY & DETAILSThis document aims to give you all the information which you will require during your extension in Colombia.

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

DAY 13: Lima to Bogota D Fly from Lima to Bogota, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Sample the regional dishes of Colombia this evening, with dinner at a local restaurant near your hotel.

DAY 14: Bogota B On today’s city tour, travel from the fragrant food and produce stalls of bustling Paloquemao Market to the Spanish colonial architecture of the historic downtown area of “La Candelaria”. Continue on to the magnificent main cathedral, located in Plaza de Bolívar, and the Gold Museum which houses 35,000 pieces of pre-Hispanic gold work. Take a cable car up to the Monserrate Hill viewpoint for breathtaking views over the city. Explore the wonderful old church which sits atop the summit, surrounded by modern cafes and souvenir shops, before returning to your hotel.

DAY 15: Bogota to Pereira B Transfer to the airport for your flight to Pereira in Colombia’s beautiful coffee triangle. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a coffee experience tour at a local coffee farm in the area.

DAY 16: Pereira to Cartagena B/L Visit a wax palm forest in Valle del Cocora and wander among the towering trees, which can reach a height of up to 70 metres. Continue on to the charming colonial town of Salento for a chance to explore its interesting and ancient architecture. At lunch time, take a cooking class where you’ll learn to make empanadas, the savoury, filled pastry popular in this region. After lunch, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cartagena.

DAY 17: Cartagena B Today’s city tour takes you to two monuments which are of great historical value - the fortress of San Felipe de Barajas and the ancient monastery of La Candelaria. Walk through the streets of the old city and visit the gold museum of Zenú (closed on Mondays) and the church of Santo Domingo among other famous city sights.

DAY 18: Bogota to the UK B After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport in Cartagena. Fly to Bogotá where you will catch your connecting flight back to the UK.

Hotel InformationBogota (2 nights) 4H NH Pavillion Address: Cl. 94 #11-45, Bogotá, Cundinamarca, ColombiaPhone: 0057 1 650 2550Pereira (1 night) 4H Sonesta PeriraAddress: Km 7 Vía Cerritos, Pereira, Colombia Phone: 0057 6 311 3600Cartagena (2 nights) 4H Hotel Bantu Address: Calle de La Tablada #7-62, San Diego, Cartagena de indias, Bolivar, ColombiaPhone: 0057 5 664 3362Any alternative hotels or board basis will have been confirmed at booking. Please speak to our reservations department if you are unsure.Please note: the hotels listed are provided for guidance only and finalconfirmation of your accommodation will be sent in a document, along with your final flight information, approximately 10 days before you travel.

On your arrivalOn your arrival in Bogota you will be met by a representative from our local agent, Pure Colombia Travel, holding a sign displaying: “Sunspot Tours”. The Sunspot Tours/Pure Colombia Travel representative will show you to your transfer vehicle. Your national guide will be on hand should you have any queries. However, if you need to contact Pure Colombia Travel during your stay the details are:Address: Carrera 16#134A-81 Ap. 204, Bogotá, Colombia.Telephone number: 0057 1 5268643E-mail: [email protected] contact information Please find below the emergency contact details for Pure Colombia Travel:24-hour contact number: 0057 3114999816E-mail: [email protected]

Personal ExpensesYou will need to take some extra money with you to cover any personal purchases such as souvenirs and laundry plus meals and drinks.

Tour GuidesThis is a fully escorted tour extension, meaning that you will be met on arrival by your national guide who will remain with you for the duration of your trip.

Currency ExchangeThe currency in Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP). We recommend that you exchange your currency before you leave the UK. Cash machines are available in all the major cities to withdraw money in the local currency.

Page 6: INCA EXPLORER - Sunspot Tours · 2018. 6. 18. · INCA EXPLORER TOUR DOSSIER 2 Accommodation All accommodation is 3H with en-suite facilities, heating/air-conditioning, TV and tea/coffee

This document aims to give you all the information which you will require during your extension in Lima.

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

DAY 13: Lima L This morning, join a half-day gastronomic tour in Lima, giving you the chance to sample the regional dishes and flavours that are receiving worldwide recognition. Visit Cala restaurant, which boasts a privileged location on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Here, you will learn to prepare the beloved national drink, a pisco sour, and a fresh dish of Peru’s celebrated ceviche before enjoying an exquisite beachfront gourmet lunch. The tour also includes a visit to a traditional Peruvian market where you will appreciate the natural produce and ingredients of the region. The tour includes a complimentary chef’s apron and an official certificate.

DAY 14: Lima B Today, visit two of the districts that are at the centre of Lima’s flourishing culinary scene, where you’ll taste a range of lcoal dishes, snacks and drinks. Travel to the town of Chorillos and learn about the district’s main industry – fishing. Stroll around a local fish market, meet the animated Peruvian fishermen of the town, visit the fishing port and then drive into the neighbourhoods and local markets of the town. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see, taste and learn how to make a variety of local snacks and dishes. Journey onward to the town of Barranco, where a walking tour takes you past the famous ‘Bajada de los Baños’ walkway and the romantic ‘Bridge of Sighs’ to one of the town’s many galleries. The colorful district of Barranco is known for its bohemian lifestyle and is an artistic hub; visitors are encouraged to wear colourful clothing as locals equate dark colours with bad luck.

DAY 15: Lima B Enjoy the day at leisure to explore the sights and tastes of Lima at your own pace. Later tonight, a table at one of Lima’s most prestigious restaurants (Astrid & Gaston, Rafael or Maido) can be reserved for you (meal at your own cost).

DAY 16: Lima to the UK B After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your scheduled flight to the UK.

Hotel Information (3 nights)Your stay in Lima will be in one of the following hotels:

3H Runcu Hotel Address: Avenida de la Aviación 139, Distrito de Lima 15074, Peru Phone: 0051 1 7194290

4H Dazzler Hotel Address: Av. José Pardo 879, Cercado de Lima 15074, PeruPhone: 0051 1 634 4000

Your chosen hotel will have been confirmed at booking. Please speak to our reservations department if you are unsure.Please note: the hotels listed are provided for guidance only and finalconfirmation of your accommodation will be sent in a document, along with your final flight information, approximately 10 days before you travel.

Personal ExpensesYou will need to take some extra money with you to cover any personal purchases such as souvenirs and laundry, plus meals that are not included and drinks.

Tour GuidesThis is a semi-escorted tour extension, meaning that you will be accompanied by a guide during the excursions on days 13 and 14. All internal transfers are included.

Please note: This extension takes place after your main tour.

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

CULINARY TOUR OF LIMA EXTENSION If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so. Please contact your local agent

FLIGHT INFORMATIONPlease note: Final hotel and flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before departure.

TRIP OVERVIEWPeruvian cuisine is enjoying its time in the limelight, with its national dish, ceviche, and its national drink, the pisco sour, making their way onto restaurant menus across the world. Savour the best of the country’s fare on this gastronomic tour of Peru’s capital

ITINERARY & DETAILS

Dazzler Hotel, Lima