150901 South America

One major continent that we have not toured is South America. We decided back in 2013 to venture to this part of the world. In our investigations we were quickly made aware that there is so much influence from the Spanish and Portuguese communities, the region had to be our choice for a group tour. There have been many folk from South America who have now made Australia their home and so, especially the Spanish speaking communities, are influencing the diverse cultures that are now in Australia.

Please enjoy our experiences starting on September 1. The first post will be either the 2nd or 3rd of September. I hope we get good Wi-Fi reception along the way. Those who travel with us will be surprised at the quality of the accommodation in the major cities of Chile, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, and Argentina.

Here’s our itinerary. You may like to ‘dream’. 2015 South America Detail Flyer

To see the daily posts, scroll down and on the right hand side, you will see a group named ‘categories’. Click on South America 2015 and each of the days’ posts will be listed. You will have to click on ‘continue reading’ to see the full text and photos. Enjoy and give us any questions or feedback – we can use your point of view.

September 1, 2015 (Tuesday)

Tullamarine Airport, Melbourne (MEL) 01 Sep 06:30 Kingsford Smith Airport, Sydney (SYD) 07:55 QF404 Economy OAERTQ.G

Kingsford Smith Airport, Sydney (SYD) 01 Sep 09:30 Arturo Merino BenitezAirport, Santiago (SCL) 12:35 LA800 Economy OAERTQ.G

September 2, 2015 (Wednesday)

Day Tour around Santiago

3 September, 2015 (Thursday)

Arturo Merino Benitez Airport, Santiago (SCL) 03 Sep 08:55 J Chavez Intl Airport, Lima(LIM)10:55 LA634 Economy OAERTQ.G

J Chavez Intl Airport, Lima (LIM) 03 Sep 12:25 Mariscal Sucr Airport, Quito (UIO) 14:55 LA1480 Economy OAERTQ.G

Scenic Tour Name: South American Adventure, Galápagos & Amazon Cruising

Tour Code:  SAAG

Days:  30

Day 1: 4 September, 2015 (Friday)

Quito, Ecuador

Welcome to Quito. On arrival you will be met by a Scenic Tours Representative and transferred* to your luxurious hotel.
Three Night Special Stay: Quito

Day 2: 5 September, 2015 (Saturday)

Quito (B,L,D)

Surrounded by volcanoes, this well-preserved historic city is a World Heritage site. On your Included walking tour you will discover the historic centre, the Cathedral and the Santo Domingo Convent. Included lunch at the elegant Café Plaza Grande. SCENIC ENRICH: A highlight is your gourmet welcome dinner at the elegant La Belle Époque restaurant, overlooking the floodlit main square.

Day 3: 6 September, 2015 (Sunday)

Quito (B,L)

Ecuador means equator in Spanish and Included today is your tour to the equator line and monument.

Day 4: 7 September, 2015 (Monday)

Quito – Galápagos Islands (B,L,D)

Included flight to the Galápagos Islands. On arrival meet your crew as you board your deluxe expedition cruise ship. You are embarking on an adventure to see a rich variety of landscapes and unusual lava formations. The sailing schedule is flexible in order to take advantage of the different conditions and to maximise your chances for close encounters with the endemic species of this unique island complex, all still relatively untouched by man.

Mariscal Sucr Airport, Quito (UIO) 07 Sep 06:55 Baltra Airport, Galapagos Is (GPS) 09:20 AV1632 Economy

Day 5: 8 September, 2015 (Tuesday)

Galápagos Islands (B,L,D)

Each day you will visit two different areas on small group walking tours led by your expert naturalist guides. Depending on the season you will have the chance to observe different species of birdlife including frigate birds and the unique blue-footed boobies. You will have the chance to see marine iguanas, the Galápagos Sea Lions, the unusual land iguanas and the slow moving Galápagos Giant Tortoise, a highlight of every visit.

Day 6: 9 September 2015 (Wednesday)

Galápagos Islands (B,L,D)

Cruising the Galápagos Islands.

Day 7: 10 September, 2015 (Thursday)

Galápagos Islands – Lima, Peru (B)

Last morning excursion then take an Included flight to Lima.
Overnight Special Stay: Lima

Baltra Airport, Galapagos Is (GPS) 10 Sep 10:10 Simon Bolivar Airport, Guayaquil (GYE)13:00 AV1633 Economy

Simon Bolivar Airport, Guayaquil (GYE) 10 Sep 18:27 J Chavez Intl Airport, Lima (LIM)20:22 AV7390 Economy 

Day 8: 11 September, 2015 (Friday)

Lima – Amazon Cruise (B,D)

Morning at leisure before taking an Included flight to the remote Amazon city of Iquitos where you will be met by the crew of the Aria Amazon and your luxury adventure begins! Settle into your handsomely appointed, over-sized suite and enjoy a welcome briefing and dinner by your Cruise Director. Then sit down, relax, sample some fine South American wines and enjoy the truly world-class cuisine.
Three Night Special Stay: Aria Amazon – First Deck Suite. Exclusive to Scenic Tours

J Chavez Intl Airport, Lima (LIM) 11 Sep 10:55 C.F. Secada Airport, Iquitos (IQT) 12:50 LA2380 Economy

Day 9: 12 September, 2015 (Saturday)

Amazon Cruise

Our private charter luxury cruise takes you into the heart of this untouched natural wilderness with only 32 like minded guests. The sailing schedule is designed to take advantage of the best conditions each day. You will explore remote Amazon River tributaries, spot monkeys and birds whilst walking along a jungle trail, visit local villages and meet with native Amazonians who are delighted to share their traditions with you. Each day there is a schedule of activities and you will board the skiffs expertly piloted by the crew that will take you along the waterways, or to the landing point for onshore excursions through the jungle. Each excursion is led by one of the trained and knowledgeable naturalist guides who are fluent in English. Your cruise showcases the delicious cuisine of the Amazon and you will be delighted by the exclusive Scenic Tours menu designed by Executive – 13 September, 2015 Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.

Day 10: 13 September, 2015 (Sunday)

Amazon Cruise (B,L,D)

Cruising the Amazon.

Day 11: 14 September, 2015 (Monday)

Amazon – Lima (B,L)

Take a final excursion followed by lunch then farewell your crew and take away fantastic memories of this luxury expedition. SCENIC ENRICH: the Amazon Manatee is an endangered species and you will visit the Manatee Rescue Centre and have the chance to feed the baby manatees. Included flight to Lima.
Two Night Special Stay: Lima

C.F. Secada Airport, Iquitos (IQT) 14 Sep 17:55 J Chavez Intl Airport, Lima (LIM) 19:40 LA2383 Economy

Day 12: 15 September, 2015 (Tuesday)

Lima (B,L,D)

Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE activity. Choose from: (1) a tour of the historic centre; or (2) Pachacamac Ruins and Temple; or (3) Lima’s ancient history and the Larco Herrera Museum; or (4) relaxing spa treatment. Tonight enjoy a welcome dinner with your Tour Director and fellow travellers.

Day 13: 16 September, 2015 (Wednesday)

Lima – Sacred Valley (B,L)

Included flight to Cuzco and then travel to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, set at a lower altitude. Your exclusive three night stay allows you to experience the history, unique lifestyle, culture and majestic scenery of this heartland of the former Incan Empire. SCENIC ENRICH: Visit Hacienda Huayocarri whose history spans over three centuries. Enjoy a delicious Andean lunch and be entertained by the women of Chinchero Village as they demonstrate their centuries old weaving techniques. Transfer to your hotel, a member of the Starwood Luxury Collection, located in the heart of the valley.
Three Night Special Stay: Sacred Valley

J Chavez Intl Airport, Lima (LIM) 16 Sep 09:15 Velazco Astete Airport, Cuzco (CUZ) 10:35 LA2047 Economy

Day 14: 17 September, 2015 (Thursday)

Sacred Valley (B,D)

This morning your expert local guide will take you on an Included walking tour of the town of Ollantaytambo, the site where Manco Inca defeated the Spanish conquistadors. SCENIC ENRICH: Visit the community supported by Scenic Tours. Meet the students and teachers at the local school and learn about their lifestyle. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the charming village of Urubumba.

Day 15: 18 September, 2015 (Friday)

Sacred Valley (B,L,D)

Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE activity, choose from: (1) walking tour of Chinchero Village; or (2) at Pisac tour the Inca ruins and colourful markets; or (3) visit Moray ruins and the ancient Inca salt pans; or (4) visit a Peruvian Paso Horse Ranch. SCENIC ENRICH: Tonight share stories of your excursion with your fellow travellers as you enjoy a private performance by local musicians complemented with a tapas style dinner.

Day 16: 19 September, 2015 (Saturday)

Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu (B,L,D)

Take an Included rail journey to spectacular Machu Picchu. The highlight is your Included full day visit to this breath taking World Heritage Site. Be amazed as your expert local guides share the mysteries of this “lost city of the Incas”, with plenty of time to explore these fascinating ruins at your own pace. Included is your chance to walk up to the Guardhouse or the “Sun Gate” with your expert local guide.
Overnight Stay: Machu Picchu

Optional Inca Trail Trek 5 hour trek to Machu Picchu on the Inca trail available Mar to Dec 2015. Enquire for full details. Price Per Person: $350

Day 17: 20 September, 2015 (Sunday)

Machu Picchu – Cuzco (B)

You have the morning to explore the township of Machu Picchu at leisure. This afternoon marvel at the spectacular views from the glass dome carriages as you journey through the snow-capped peaks of the Andes aboard the Vistadome train. Continue to Cuzco by coach, where your luxurious hotel is located in the heart of the historic centre.
Three Night Special Stay: Cuzco

Day 18: 21 September, 2015 (Monday)

Cuzco (B)

This charming city is a World Heritage Site that was the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Included walking tour where you will marvel at the mix of Incan, Spanish and modern architecture, starting with the Cathedral, then at Casa Concha see the exhibits from Machu Picchu excavated by Hiram Bingham and then tour Koricancha (Sun Temple). Your tour finishes with the ruins of Sacsayhuaman fortress with a stunning view over the city.

Day 19: 22 September, 2015 (Tuesday)

Cuzco (B,D)

Enjoy a free day to explore at your leisure. Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE Dining choose from: (1) Calle del Medio Restaurant; or (2) El Tupay Restaurant; or (3) MAP Café.

Day 20: 23 September, 2015 (Wednesday)

Cuzco – Lake Titicaca (B,L)

SCENIC ENRICH: Take one of the great rail journeys of the world aboard the luxurious Andean Explorer for a full day traverse across the high Andes to Lake Titicaca. Exquisitely decorated in the manner of the great Pullman trains of the 1920’s, the open-air Observation Car affords fantastic photo opportunities.Relax in the luxurious surrounds, enjoy the changing scenery and the on board entertainment.
Overnight Stay: Lake Titicaca

Day 21: 24 September, 2015 (Thursday)

Lake Titicaca – Lima (B,L)

Considered the highest navigable lake in the world and the largest on the continent of South America, join your expert local guide today for an Included excursion on Lake Titicaca to the unique floating islands of Uros. Be introduced to their quirky traditional lifestyle, meet some of the residents and take a ride on one of the reed boats. Then take an Included flight to Lima.
Overnight Special Stay: Lima

Juliaca Airport (JUL) 24 Sep 13:10 J Chavez Intl Airport, Lima (LIM) 14:50 LA2096 Economy

Day 22: 25 September, 2015 (Friday)

Lima – Buenos Aires, Argentina (B)

Included flight to Buenos Aires. Transfer hotel located on the elegant Arroyo Street.
Three Night Stay: Buenos Aires

J Chavez Intl Airport, Lima  (LIM) 25 Sep 08:30 Ezeiza Ministro Pistarini Airport, Buenos Aires (EZE) 14:55 LA4601 Economy

Day 23: 26 September, 2015 (Saturday)

Buenos Aires (B,L,D)

Today your exclusive Included tour will show you the highlights and hidden secrets of this city famed as the “Paris of the Americas”. At Plaza Mayo, see the Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace) and visit the Cathedral of Buenos Aires. SCENIC ENRICH: Visit the colourful district of La Boca for a private display of Tango dancing. Enjoy a walk down Caminito Street to see the street murals, caricature statues and enjoy free time to discover at your own pace. After lunch visit the historic San Telmo district and enjoy afternoon tea Buenos Aires style. Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE Dining choose from: (1) exclusive Gala Tango show and dinner; or (2) the award winning Le Sud Restaurant; or (3) Parillas (Steakhouse)

Day 24: 27 September, 2015 (Sunday)

Buenos Aires (B)

Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE activity choose from: (1) the secrets of Eva Peron’s life; or (2) guided tour of the Teatro Colón; or (3) culinary secrets of Argentina walking tour; or (4) graffiti art walking tour.

Day 25: 28 September 2015 (Monday)

Buenos Aires – Iguazú Falls, Brazil (B,D)

Included flight to Iguazu Falls. Enjoy your Included tour of the Argentinean Falls, where you will see the famous ‘Devil’s Throat’ from the viewpoint. Transfer to your luxurious hotel, the only hotel located within the boundaries of the Brazilian Falls National Park for a relaxing two night stay.
Two Night Special Stay: Iguazú Falls

Jorge Newbery Domestic Airport, Buenos Aires (AEP) 28 Sep 09:05 Cataratas Airport, Iguazu (IGR) 10:55 LA4022 Economy

Day 26: 29 September, 2015 (Tuesday)

Iguazú Falls (B)

Included tour of the majestic Brazilian Falls, where you will be awed by the world’s largest volume waterfall. Enjoy a visit to the Parque das Aves be amazed by the colourful array of rare birds flying in the huge aviaries Then take an exciting adventure onto the water and come close to the base one of the falls and feel the spray of water on your face. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to enjoy this pristine wilderness and the facilities of your magnificent hotel.

Day 27: 30 September, 2015 (Wednesday)

Iguazu Falls – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (B,D)

Included flight to colourful Rio de Janeiro where your luxurious hotel occupies the prime location on the famous Copacabana Beach. Tonight dine like a carioca (local) and enjoy your Included Churrascaria dinner.
Three Night Special Stay: Rio de Janeiro

Cataratas Airport, Iguazu Falls (IGU) 30 Sep 12:53 International Airport, Rio De Janeiro (GIG) 14:45 JJ3186 Economy 

Day 28: 1 October, 2015 (Thursday)

Rio de Janeiro (B,L)

Your Included tour covers all the icons and highlights of this vibrant city! First visit Corcovado Mountain and see the famous ‘Christ’ Statue. See the unique Cathedral of Rio and admire the enormous stained glass windows. This afternoon ride the cable car to Sugar Loaf Mountain.

Day 29: 2 October, 2015 (Friday)

Rio de Janeiro (B,D)

Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE day, choose from: (1) Guanabara Bay cruise (weather permitting); or (2) tour the Favela’s (Shanty Town); or (3) walking tour of the historic centre; or (4) tour Petropolis, the retreat of the former emperors; SCENIC ENRICH: Tonight farewell your fellow travellers and Tour Director at a private dinner in the elegant Pérgula Restaurant a fitting way to end your journey to South America.

Day 30: 3 October, 2015 (Saturday)

Rio de Janeiro (B)

Your tour ends after breakfast and you will be transferred* to the airport for your onward or homebound flight (flight not included).

International Airport, Rio De Janeiro (GIG) 03 Oct 15:20 Arturo Merino Benitez Airport, Santiago (SCL) 20:20 LA787 Economy OAERTQ.G

Arturo Merino Benitez Airport, Santiago (SCL) 03 Oct 23:20 Jean Batten Airport, Auckland (AKL) 05 Oct 04:30 LA801 Economy OAERTQ.G

5 October, 2015 (Monday)

Jean Batten Airport, Auckland (AKL) 05 Oct 06:35 Tullamarine Airport, Melbourne (MEL) 08:45 QF152 Economy