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Central America has the best tour programs and best rates

COMBINED COUNTRIES

Thank you for visiting this section of our web site. Here, you will find several combinations for the most popular destinations in Latin America....just click and go..!

CENTRAL AMERICA:

Around Central America  27 days -Visiting Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Belize....

Costa Rica & Panama 12 days  -Visiting San Jose, Monteverde, Skywalk, Gamboa, The Panama Canal and Beach.

Guatemala, Honduras & Belize 14 days -Visiting Guatemala, Chichicastenango, Tikal, Quirigua, Copan, Lamanai, Xunantunich, Ambergrys and more.....(Best of the Mayas)

Guatemala and El Salvador  NEW! 10 days (Native Markets & Beaches)...Discover the culture, markets, colonial Guatemala and the beaches of El Salvador

7 Countries in 2 weeks...!! all Central America...

Panama & Colombia 12 days exploring Panama City, Bogota and Cartagena...

Panama & Colombia  8 days Cartagena & Panama city

SOUTH AMERICA:

Argentina & Brazil (Best of the South Atlantic) 10 days visiting Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires and Iguassu Falls

Argentina, Chile & Brazil 14 days Visiting Santiago de Chile, Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls and the Marvelous City "Rio de Janeiro

Tara’s Journey Around South America 15 days visiting Peru, Chile, Argentina & Brazil

Brazil-Argentina-Peru (Tara's Quick Visit to to South America) ...12 days -Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu, Buenos Aires, Lima, Cuzco & Machu PIcchu.

Wonders of South America 17 days touring Lima, Santiago, Puerto Montt, Bariloche, Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls and Rio de Janeiro

Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia 17 days visiting Galapagos, Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca 

Ecuador & Peru 10 days Visiting Quito-Lima-Cuzco-Machu Picchu

Peru & Ecuador (Galapagos & Inkas) 14 & 18 days visiting Quito, Galapagos, Lima, Cuzco, Machu Picchu (also see Ecuador section)

Peru & Brazil (Inkas & Sambas) 18 days visiting Lima, Cuzco, Machu Picchu, Salvador, Manaus, Iguassu Falls and Rio de Janeiro

Peru & Bolivia 12 days (An Inka Legacy) Visiting Machu Picchu and beautiful Lake Titicaca.

Peru-Argentina-Brazil 12 days - Lima, Cuzco, Machu Picchu, Buenos Aires, Iguazzu and Rio de Janeiro

Peru-Chile-Argentina 14 days Lima-Cuzco-Machu Picchu-Santiago-Buenos Aires-Iguazzu Falls.

Chile & Peru  14 days - Finally the two most amazing archeological sites...Easter Islands & Machu Picchu at very affordable prices..!!

Chile & Argentina 14 days visiting Buenos Aires, Bariloche, Peulla, Puerto Montt & Santiago de Chile

Best of Patagonia Argentina-Chile   18 days visiting Torres del Paine (Chile) and Perito Moreno  (Argentina) plus Bariloche, Puerto Montt, Buenos Aires and Santiago with optional extension to Peninsula Valdez.

Depart Miami for Quito, Ecuador. After going through customs and immigration, you will be transferred to the new hotel Dann Carlton or Alameda Real.

Afternoon drive along the northern residential section and see the impressive Parliament Building. Then stroll downtown to visit the colonial temple and monasteries designated by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. Visit San Agustine Convent with its colonial cloisters, coffered ceilings and vast collection of paintings. Continue to the Independence Plaza flanked by the Cathedral, Presidential Palace, Municipal Building and Archbishop's Palace. Next, visit the great church and Monastery of San Francisco with the Virgin of Quito at its main altar. Your scenic tour ends at a lookout point with a great view of Quito (B)

 Full day excursion going north, via the Pan-American Highway to experience the colorful Market of Otavalo for excellent buys in local handicrafts. Visit the small city of Calderon, famous for its bread dolls. Also you will visit Peguche, where the Otavalo indigenous people actually do their weaving or San Antonio de Ibarra, the woodcarving center. Stop for lunch at a local hacienda and return to Quito and to hotel Dann Carlton or Mercure Alameda. (B,L)

Please take note Cruise departs only on these dates for 2012:

Transfer to the airport for flight to Galapagos. Welcome at Baltra Airport . Briefing on ship´s facilities at lounge given by guides as well as National Park. Safety drill practice with passengers, crew and guides.
Afternoon visit North Seymour Island . After a dry landing guests will encounter Swallow Tailed Gulls and Sea Lions. This site is also known for being a major nesting colony for Blue Footed Boobies, and the largest colony of the Magnificent Frigate Bird. (a different species from the Great Frigate Bird). Travelers will also spot both endemic species of iguanas, the Marine Iguanas and Land Iguanas. Passengers will enjoy this relaxed hike around the nesting sites. (B,L,D)
DAY 05 TUE. GALAPAGOS 

Morning at Genovesa Island . Best known as “the island of birds.” Passengers enjoy the safe harbor of being anchored deep within the cater formed bay. A dry landing at El Barranco (Prince Philip's Steps). Passengers will walk on lava terrain observing Red Footed Boobies, Frigates, and the fragrant Palo Santo trees. Thousands of Storm Petrels can be seen hovering over the open expanses. Your second visit is a refreshing wet landing, travelers visit Darwin Bay . Visitors will enjoy observing the Red-Footed Boobies, Frigates, Sea Lions, Lava Gulls, Night Herons, and Fiddler Crabs at this site. This site also offers snorkeling in the bay to observe sharks and rays at a safe distance. Passengers never forget the beaches on this island. (B,L,D)
DAY 06 WED. GALAPAGOS 

Española Island . Travelers enjoy a dry landing at Suarez Point. Upon landing visitors will learn more about the lava terrain while crossing the inactive lava fields.. Aside from the Sea Lion colonies, this is one of the most important sites for bird watching. As soon as visitors step foot on this island many species can be spotted and observed up close. Among the many species, the Hooded Mocking bird and Red Billed Tropic Bird can be seen. Travelers will also spot a large colony of Marine Iguanas, Lava Lizards, and the colorful Sally Light Foot Crabs. After a short trek visitors encounter colonies of masked and blue-footed boobies. Nesting grounds sometimes overlap the trail. Visitors will also find Galapagos Doves, Hawks and Swallow-Tailed Gulls. After crossing the nesting grounds you will reach the world's largest colony of Waved Albatross (15000 approx.), Their mating rituals are a highlight. Nearing the end of this excursion passengers will visit the famous blowhole, where water shoots into the air at almost 23 mts. (75 ft.). 
Afternoon at San Cristóbal Island . Dry landing at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Here passengers visit the Interpretation Center providing travelers an opportunity to learn about the natural and human history of the islands through an hour-long interactive presentation. There is some time to shop in town. (B,L,D)
DAY 07 THU. GALAPAGOS-GUAYAQUIL 

Morning arrival at Black Turtle Cove located near Las Bachas beach in the north of Santa Cruz Island . This excursion provides passengers with a “panga” ride though the mangrove, during which the outboard motor of the small boat is turned off. This allows for the close observation of Sea Turtles, White Tipped Reef Sharks, Spotted Eagle Rays, and Yellow Rays. Transfer to the airport for flight to Guayaquil with transfer to hotel Hampton Inn

DAY 08 FRI. GUAYAQUIL- LIMA 

Reception and transfer to hotel Maria Angola or Jose Antonio located in the pretty distric of Miraflores. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Lima, founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and called "City of Kings". Your guided tour will take you to see the most important sites of modern and colonial Lima. (B)

DAY 09 SAT. LIMA-CUZCO: 

Transfer to the airport for flight to Cuzco. Reception and transfer to the Hotel DON CARLOS. Afternoon city tour of Cuzco and the surrounding valley and ruins of Kenko, Tambomachay, Puca-Pucara and the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. (B)

DAY 10 SUN. CUZCO-MACHU PICCHU: 

Full day excursion via alpine train to Machu Picchu. Early morning transfer to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour train ride along the Urubamba river to Putucusi bridge, then by bus up to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Here your guide will explain the advanced world of the Inkas. Overnight at hotel Machu Picchu Inn. (B)

DAY 11 MON. MACHU PICCHU-CUZCO: 

Morning at leisure to explore the magnificent archeological site on your own. Late afternoon return to Cuzco by train and to your hotel for overnight. (B)

At leisure to walk and experience "The Capital of the Inka Empire". Cuzco is like an open museum, full of Inka buildings, temples, palaces -and beautiful Spanish churches. Also great shopping! (sweaters, alpaca rugs, ceramics, silver & gold jewelry) .(B)

DAY 13 WED. CUZCO-PUNO

Early in the morning transfer to the train station for a full day ride across the Altiplano as you pass through many villages and small towns with beautiful views of the Andean mountains and white snow peaks. Late in the afternoon arrive in Puno - and transfer to hotel SILLUSTANI or POSADA DEL INKA. (B)

Depart Puno by Hidrofoil –crossing Lake Tititcaca, to visit the colorful Andean town of Copacabana (on the Bolivain side) and the Church of Nuestra Senora de Copacabana. Continue by Hidrofoil to visit the Sun & Moon Islands and drink water from the Sacred Spring -believed to be the source of eternal life Then to Huatajata port and hotel Inca Utama. Late afternoon you will visit the Eco and Altiplano museums to learn more about the Inka civilization and the Spaniard conquistadors. After dinner you will have a chance to discover the spiritual world of the Callawayas -masters in natural medicine of the Andes. Within their concept, you must first heal the spirit before you can heal the body . A meeting with a Shaman will tell your fortunes as He casts and reads the Coca leaves. Overnight at the INKA UTAMA. (B,L,D)

Wake up at the sound of the "Pututu" -a native alpine horn- to see the Sunrise and experience like the local people the energy of the Sun God. Depart Lake Titicaca for a half day sightseeing tour of the ancient ruins of Tiahuanaco, capital of a great civilization that started in 1580 B.C and at the height of its splendor (700 AC) covered part of Bolivia, Argentina and Peru. Here, you will see its Aqueducts, Temples, Palaces, the Gate of the Sun and some of their mysterious monoliths, then continue to La Paz for overnight. HOTEL PRESIDENTE. (B)

Morning city tour of the Capital of the Altiplano (13,000 feet high). You will visiting the Open Air Museum and Tiahuanaco Art collection, Casa Murillo, the local and picturesque witch Doctor street , the 16th Century San Francisco Church, the residential area of Obrajes and the unrealistic Moon Valley. (B)

Transfer to the airport for flight to Miami with immediate connections to more than 100 USA cities. (B)

INCLUDING: Tips to porters at airports and ports (not at hotels); tours as mentioned in itinerary including entrance fees and English speaking tour guides; 4 star hotel accommodations for 10 nights including room taxes and service charges of 15% in Ecuador and 18% in Peru; The 4 day/3 night Galapagos Cruise aboard the M/V Legend –outside cabins-with 2 lower berths Superior cabins; round trip bus/train tickets to Machu Picchu; meals as noted B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner; all transfers to airport, hotel and ports; local airfare Quito-Galapagos-Guayaquil and Lima-Cuzco.

NOT INCLUDED: International airfare from USA to Quito-Guayaquil-Lima-La Paz-USA; Other services not mentioned in itinerary; passport, visa, tourist car fees or insurance; departure taxes: Ecuador $25.00, Peru $25.00, $5.00 each domestic flight in Peru; $100.00 Galapagos National Park tax and $30.00 Galapagos airport tax; tips to tour guides and drivers. USA departure tax.

DEPOSITS/PAYMENTS: US$500.00 per person at the time of booking. Full payment is due 60 days prior to departure.

CANCELLATIONS: Before departure: at any time $100 per person; 65 to 49 days $150 penalty pp; 48 to 30 days $300; 29 to 16 days 60% penalty of total cost pp; less than 15 days -no refunds.

INSURANCE: Through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$179. Please see information on back page.

INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED: (USA to Quito-Guayaquil-Lima-La Paz-USA)

Sample cost of airfare from Miami, Florida US$800-1200

SAMPLE ADD-ONS VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES:

For same package add $240 from ATL, TPA, ORL & ZONE 1; $330 from BDL, BOS,BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $400 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $420 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $450 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $490 from Zone 6. .(See below Zone Chart. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME

CHILE-ARGENTINA-BRAZIL 

Transfer to the airport for your overnight flight to Santiago de Chile. (Dinner on board).

Arrive in Santiago and transfer to you Hotel. Afternoon tour of Santiago -Capital of Chile, City tour begins at Santa Hill and continues with drive through residential areas of Pedro de Valdivia Norte, El Golf and Vitacura. Returning to town, take in such famous landmarks as Fine Arts Museum, National Congress Building and Moneda. Chile’s Presidential Palace.(B)

At leisure to explore the city on your own or take an optional tour. (B)

Transfer to the airport for flight to Buenos Aires with transfer to your hotel.(B)

Morning sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires, The Argentina capital boasts a population of 9 million. City tour takes you to the Plaza de Mayo for view of Cathedral and Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace).Then along 9 de Julio Avenue, widest street in the world, with its much-photographed Obelisk and Colon Theater and finally, to the colorful Boca District . (B)

Day 07/08 Buenos Aires

At leisure to visit famous Florida Street for leather buys. (B)

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Iguassu Falls. Afternoon walking tour to explore never-to-be forgotten spectacle of 275 cataracts, literally miles of water hurtling over precipices higher than a 30-story building. (B)

Day 10 Iguassu - Rio de Janeiro

Morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport for departure flight. Upon arrival in Rio, transfer to hotel. (B)

Day 11 Rio de Janeiro

Morning sightseeing tour of Corcovado-Cascatinha-Bosque de Tijuca, your tour guide will drive you up Corcovado peak, where imposing Statue of Christ The Redeemer over-looks Guanabara Bay, Rio and fabulous beaches. From Corcovado, proceed to Cascatinha, Tijuca Forest and beaches of Ipanema and Leblon. (B)

Day 12/13 Rio de Janeiro

Days at leisure to enjoy the beaches, the sidewalk or the Rio night life. (B)

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Miami. (B)

INCLUDING: Daily buffet breakfast; private sightseeing tours as mention in itinerary; hotel accommodations for 12 nights with room taxes and service charge; private transfers on arrival and departure including baggage handling and tips to airport porters in Santiago, Rio, Buenos Aires and Iguassu; English speaking tour guides and entrance fees where necessary.

NOT INCLUDED: Insurance (available with Insure America, cost for this program US$164-235); airport departure taxes: Santiago & Buenos Aires US$131 -upon arrival- and $18/25 -when leaving the country;  Iguassu Falls $2.00 and Rio de Janeiro $25; visas; passports and any other service not specifically mentioned in itinerary. USA departure tax (usually included in y our airline ticket)

VISA NEEDED TO ENTER BRAZIL

Rates do not apply for Christmas, New Years or Carnival in Rio de Janeiro.

PLUS  AIRFARE: SAMPLE COST MIAMI- SANTIAGO-BUENOS AIRES-IGUASSU-RIO DE JANEIRO-MIAMI US$1850-2150

ALL USA citizens NEED VISA RO ENTER BRAZIL

DEPOSIT LAND: US$ 400.oo per person at the time of booking.

DEPOSIT AIR: Please take note -airlines do not guarantee any airfare unless ticketed. Please call or email us (1-800-327-0080 or tara@taratours.com)

FINAL PAYMENT LAND: 60-50 days before departure.

HOTELS USED:

3 stars: RIO=Savoy; BUENOS AIRES=Impala; SANTIAGO=Presidente; IGUASSU= Bristol

4 stars: RIO=Leme Palace; BUENOS AIRES=Elevage  or Pestana; SANTIAGO=Fundador or Galerias; IGUASSU= San Martin.

5 stars: RIO=Sofitel ; BUENOS AIRES=Marriot; SANTIAGO=Marriott; IGUASSU= Das Cataratas -now an Orient Express property.

Please call 1-800-327-0080. Please add USA departure tax of US$250.00.

PERU-ARGENTINA-BRAZIL

Visiting Lima "City of Kings", Cuzco, Machu Picchu, Buenos Aires,

Iguassu Falls and the Marvelous City "Rio de Janeiro"

12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

Departs every Sunday

Locally hosted

(Call or e-mail us- for add-ons from more than 100 USA cities)

DAY 01 USA-LIMA:

Departs USA for Lima, Peru. Arrive and transfer to hotel selected.

DAY 02 LIMA:

Morning sightseeing tour of Lima founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and called "City of Kings". Your tour guide will take you to visit the most important sites of modern of colonial Lima. In the afternoon you will visit the famous Gold museum with more than 10,000 gold pieces from pre-Inca and Inca culture. (B)

DAY 03 LIMA-CUZCO

Transfer and arrive in Cuzco. Afternoon city tour of Cuzco and surroundings ruins of Sacsayhauman, Kenko, Puca Pucara. (B)

DAY 04 MACHU PICCHU 

Full day excursion via alpine train to Machu Picchu. Early morning transfer to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour train ride along the Urubamba river to Putucusi bridge, then by bus up to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Here your guide will explain the advanced world of the Inkas. Return to Cuzco for overnight. 

Overnight in Machu Picchu available upon request. (B)

DAY 05 CUZCO-LIMA-BUENOS AIRES:

Transfer to the airport for flight to Buenos Aires with transfer to hotel selected. (B)

DAY 06 BUENOS AIRES:

Morning sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires, The Argentina capital boasts a population of 9 million. City tour takes you to the Plaza de Mayo for view of Cathedral and Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace). Then along 9 de Julio Avenue, widest street in the world, with its much-photographed Obelisk and Colon Theater and finally, to the colorful Boca District . (B)

DAY 07 BUENOS AIRES:

At leisure to visit famous Florida Street for leather buys. (B)

DAY 08 BUENOS AIRES - IGUASSU:

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Iguassu Falls. Afternoon and following morning, at leisure to explore never-to-be forgotten spectacle of 275 cataracts, literally miles of water hurtling over precipices higher than a 30-story building. Overnight Hotel selected. (B)

DAY 09 IGUASSU - RIO DE JANEIRO:

Transfer to the airport for departure flight. Upon arrival in Rio, transfer to your hotel. (B)

DAY 10 RIO DE JANEIRO:

Morning sightseeing tour to Corcovado. A quick drive from your hotel to the Cosme Velho Train Station. The cog wheel train will climb up through the Tijuca Rain Forest and will bring you to the steps of the Christ Statue. At 2.300 ft above sea level, a breathtaking view of the city of Rio de Janeiro, the Guanabara Bay, Sugar Loaf Mountain, the 9 mile Rio-Niteroi Bridge, the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, then pass by the beaches of Ipanema and Leblon. (B)

DAY 11 RIO DE JANEIRO:

Day at leisure to enjoy the beaches, the sidewalk or the Rio night life. (B)

DAY 12 RIO DE JANEIRO-USA   

Transfer to the airport for your flight to USA. (B)

INCLUDING:

Daily breakfast; sightseeing tours as mention in itinerary; hotel accommodations of your choice for 11 nights with room taxes and service charge; local airfare Lima-Cuzco-Lima; transfers on arrival and departure including baggage handling and tips to airport porters; English speaking tour guides & entrance fees; assistance of our local representatives.

NOT INCLUDED: I

Insurance (available with Insure America, cost for this program US$100-$200); airport departure taxes; Lima $32 -when leaving the country; B. Aires $32; Iguassu Falls $2.00 and Rio de Janeiro $28; visas; passports and any other service not mentioned in itinerary. USA departure tax/fuel surcharge/security of US$200-400 (please take note this amount changes all time due to fuel increases).

Effective December 20^th, 2009 all US citizens will have to pay USD$131.00 upon arrival to Argentina

DEPOSIT: US$300 per person at the time of booking. 

FINAL PAYMENT: 60 days before departure.

HOTELS USED:

3 stars: LIMA=Faraona; RIO=Savoy; B.AIRES=Impala; CUZCO=Don Carlos; Iguassu= Hotel San Martin

4 stars: LIMA=Las Palmeras; RIO=Leme Palace; B.AIRES=Elevage or Pestana;  CUZCO=Dorado or Sonesta; Iguassu=Bourbom

5 stars: LIMA=Marriot; RIO=Rio Othon; B.AIRES=Marriot;  CUZCO=Libertador; Iguassu=Cataratas -now an Orient Express property.

2012 Land tour cost per person: Includes local airfare Lima-Cuzco-Lima

DOES NOT INCLUDE INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE (USA-LIMA-B.AIRES-IGUASSU-RIO-USA)

Special rates apply for Christmas, New Year and Carnival.

Sample cost air portion per person:

Miami-Lima-Buenos Aires-Iguassu-Rio-Miami  US$1900-2250 plus USA taxes...$90-180

Tara's Journey

Around South America

PERU-CHILE-ARGENTINA-BRAZIL

Visiting Lima "City of Kings", Santiago de Chile, Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls

and the Marvelous City "Rio de Janeiro"

15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS

Independent departures from Miami, New York, or Los Angeles every SUNDAY

DAY 01 USA-LIMA:

Departs USA for Lima, Peru. Arrive and transfer to hotel selected.

DAY 02 LIMA:

Morning sightseeing tour of Lima founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and called "City of Kings". Your tour guide will take you to visit the most important sites of modern of colonial Lima. In the afternoon you will visit the famous Gold museum with more than 10,000 gold pieces from pre-Inca and Inca culture. (B)

DAY 03/04 LIMA:

Days at leisure to explore Lima on your own or take an optional tour to Cuzco-Machu Picchu (see optional cost at bottom of this page)or to the Amazon Jungle. (B)

DAY 05 LIMA-SANTIAGO:

Transfer to the airport for flight to Santiago. Transfer to hotel selected. (B)

DAY 06 SANTIAGO:

Afternoon tour of Santiago -Capital of Chile, City tour begins at Santa Hill and continues with drive through residential areas of Pedro de Valdivia Norte, El Golf and Vitacura. Returning to town, take in such famous landmarks as Fine Arts Museum, National Congress Building and Moneda. Chile’s Presidential Palace.(B).

DAY 07 SANTIAGO:

Day at leisure to explore Santiago on your own or take an optional tour. (CB)

DAY 08 SANTIAGO -BUENOS AIRES:

Transfer to the airport for flight to Buenos Aires with transfer to hotel selected.(B)

DAY 09 BUENOS AIRES:

Morning sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires, The Argentina capital boasts a population of 9 million. City tour takes you to the Plaza de Mayo for view of Cathedral and Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace).Then along 9 de Julio Avenue, widest street in the world, with its much-photographed Obelisk and Colon Theater and finally, to the colorful Boca District . (B)

DAY 10 BUENOS AIRES:

At leisure to visit famous Florida Street for leather buys. (B)

DAY 11 BUENOS AIRES - IGUASSU:

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Iguassu Falls. Afternoon and following morning, at leisure to explore never-to-be forgotten spectacle of 275 cataracts, literally miles of water hurtling over precipices higher than a 30-story building. Overnight Hotel selected. (B)

DAY 12 IGUASSU - RIO DE JANEIRO:

Transfer to the airport for departure flight. Upon arrival in Rio, transfer to your hotel. (B)

DAY 13 RIO DE JANEIRO:

Morning sightseeing tour of Corcovado-Cascatinha-Bosque de Tijuca, your tour guide will drive you up Corcovado peak, where imposing Statue of Christ The Redeemer over-looks Guanabara Bay, Rio and fabulous beaches. From Corcovado, proceed to the beaches of Ipanema and Leblon. (B)

DAY 14 RIO DE JANEIRO:

Day at leisure to enjoy the beaches, the sidewalk or the Rio night life. (B)

DAY 15 (SUN.) RIO DE JANEIRO - USA:

Transfer to the airport for your flight to USA. (BB)

INCLUDING: Daily Continental breakfast; sightseeing tours as mention in itinerary; hotel accommodations of your choice for 4 nights in Lima, 3 nights in Santiago, 3 nights in Buenos Aires, 3 nights in Rio de Janeiro and 1 night in Iguassu Falls with room taxes and service charge; transfers on arrival and departure including baggage handling and tips to airport porters in Lima, Santiago, Rio, Buenos Aires and Iguassu; English speaking tour guides & entrance fees

NOT INCLUDED: Insurance (available with Insure America, cost for this program US$.129); airport departure taxes: Lima $25, Santiago $20 -upon arrival- and $18 -when leaving the country; B.Aires $15; Iguassu Falls $2.00 and Rio de Janeiro $15; visas; passports and any other service not mentioned in itinerary. USA departure tax/fuel surcharge/security of US$200-400 (please take note this amount changes all time due to fuel increases).

Effective December 20^th, 2009 all US citizens will have to pay USD$131.00 upon arrival to Argentina

DEPOSIT: US$300 per person at the time of booking. 

FINAL PAYMENT: 60 days before departure.

HOTELS USED:

3 stars: LIMA=Faraona; RIO=Savoy; B.AIRES=Impala or Ayres; SANTIAGO=Galerias; Iguassu= Hotel San Martin

4 stars: LIMA=Las Palmeras; RIO=Leme Palace; B.AIRES=Elevage or Pestana; SANTIAGO=Fundador; IGUASSU= Hotel Bourbom

5 stars: LIMA=Marriot; RIO=Rio Othon; B.AIRES=Marriot; SANTIAGO=Sheraton; IGUASSU= Das Cataratas-now an Orient Express property.

DOES NOT INCLUDE INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE:

Special rates apply for Christmas, New Year and Carnival.

Sample cost air portion per person:

(Miami-Lima-Santiago-B.Aires-Iguassu-Rio-Miami) US$2140-2400

3 Days/2 nights: Including two nights hotel accommodations at hotel Dorado with American breakfast, city tour of Cuzco with visit to ruins nearby, full day excursion to Machu Picchu with train- bus tickets, entrance fees, English speaking tour guides, transfers on arrival and departure and local AIRFARE LIMA-CUZCO-LIMA. Sharing double $1330.00; Sharing triple $1,303.00; Single $1,600.00

Wonders of South America 

PERU-CHILE-ARGENTINA-BRAZIL

DAY 01 USA-Lima:

Departs USA for Lima, Peru. Arrive and transfer to hotel selected.

DAY 02 Lima:

Morning sightseeing tour of Lima founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and called "City of Kings". Your tour guide will take you to visit the most important sites of modern of colonial Lima. In the afternoon you will visit the famous Gold museum with more than 10,000 gold pieces from pre-Inca and Inca culture. (B)

DAY 03/04 LIMA:

Days at leisure to explore Lima on your own or take an optional tour to Cuzco-Machu Picchu (see optional cost at bottom of this page) or to the Amazon Jungle. (B)

DAY 05 Lima-Santiago:

Transfer to the airport for flight to Santiago. Transfer to hotel selected. (B)

DAY 06 Santiago:

Afternoon tour of Santiago -Capital of Chile, City tour begins at Santa Hill and continues with drive through residential areas of Pedro de Valdivia Norte, El Golf and Vitacura. Returning to town, take in such famous landmarks as Fine Arts Museum, National Congress Building and Moneda. Chile’s Presidential Palace.(B).

DAY 07 Santiago:

Day at leisure to explore Santiago on your own or take an optional tour. (B)

DAY 08  Santiago-Puerto Montt:

Transfer to the airport for flight to Puerto Montt. Arrive and transfer to hotel selected. Orientation tour of Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas. (B)

DAY 09  Puerto Montt-Peulla-Bariloche

Passing impressive Llanquihue, largest of Chile’s lakes, drive to Ensenada, pausing to view cascading Rio Petrohue. From Petrohue, cross Lake Todos Los Santos, beautiful work of nature bordered by mountains, whose virgin forests reach the water’s edge.

Continue by bus to Puerto Frias and cross into Argentina at La Cumbre. (Border immigration formalities). Proceed by motor-launch to Puerto Alegre and board motorcoach to Puerto Blest at eastern end of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Afternoon crossing of this beautiful lake ends today’s journey and on arrival at Puerto Pañuelo, you will be met and driven to hotel in San Carlos de Bariloche. Overnight at hotel selected. (B)

DAY 10  Bariloche-

Day at leisure to explore this beautiful andean town on your own. Overnight at hotel selected. (B)

DAY 11 Bariloche-Buenos Aires:

Transfer to the airport for flight to Buenos Aires with transfer to hotel selected.(B)

DAY 12 Buenos Aires:

Morning sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires, The Argentina capital boasts a population of 9 million. City tour takes you to the Plaza de Mayo for view of Cathedral and Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace).Then along 9 de Julio Avenue, widest street in the world, with its much-photographed Obelisk and Colon Theater and finally, to the colorful Boca District . (B)

DAY 13 Buenos Aires:

At leisure to visit famous Florida Street for leather buys. (B)

DAY 14 Buenos Aires - Iguassu:

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Iguassu Falls. Afternoon and following morning, at leisure to explore never-to-be forgotten spectacle of 275 cataracts, literally miles of water hurtling over precipices higher than a 30-story building. Overnight hotel selected. (B)

DAY 15 Iguassu - Rio de Janeiro:

Transfer to the airport for departure flight. Upon arrival in Rio, transfer to your hotel. (B)

DAY 16 Rio de Janeiro:

Morning sightseeing tour of Corcovado-Cascatinha-Bosque de Tijuca, your tour guide will drive you up Corcovado peak, where imposing Statue of Christ The Redeemer over-looks Guanabara Bay, Rio and fabulous beaches. From Corcovado, proceed to the beaches of Ipanema and Leblon. (B)

DAY 17 Rio DE Janeiro:

Day at leisure to enjoy the beaches, the sidewalk or the Rio night life. (B)

DAY 18 Rio de Janeiro - USA:

Transfer to the airport for your flight to USA. (B)

INCLUDING: Daily buffet breakfast; sightseeing tours as mention in itinerary; hotel accommodations of your choice for 17 nights with room taxes and service charge; all transfers on arrival and departure including baggage handling and tips to airport porters; Daily buffet breakfast;  English speaking tour guides & entrance fees when necessary.

NOT INCLUDED: Insurance (available with Insure America, cost for this program US$.129); airport departure taxes: Lima $25, Santiago $20 -upon arrival- and $18 -when leaving the country; B. Aires $15; Iguassu Falls $2.00 and Rio de Janeiro $15; visas; passports and any other service not mentioned in itinerary. USA departure tax/fuel surcharge/security of US$200-400 (please take note this amount changes all time due to fuel increases).

Effective December 20^th, 2009 all US citizens will have to pay USD$131.00 upon arrival to Argentina

DEPOSIT: US$400 per person at the time of booking. 

FINAL PAYMENT: 60 days before departure.

3 stars: LIMA=Faraona; RIO=Savoy; BUENOS AIRES=Impala or Ayres; SANTIAGO=Galerias; P.MONTT=Bellavista, BARILOCHE=3 Reyes; Iguassu= Hotel San Martin

4 stars: LIMA=Las Palmeras; RIO=Leme Palace; BUENOS AIRES=Elevage or Pestana; SANTIAGO=Fundador; P.MONTT=Cabanas del Lago, BARILOCHE=Design or Edelweiss; IGUASSU= Hotel Bourbom

Hotel San Martin5 stars: LIMA: Sheraton/Marriot; RIO=Rio Othon; BUENOS AIRES=Marriot; SANTIAGO=Sheraton; P.MONTT=Melia, BARILOCHE=Art Hotel El Casco; IGUASSU= Hotel Cataratas -now an Orient Express property.

NOT INCLUDE AIRFARE. Special rates apply for Christmas, New Year and Carnival.

Sample airfare per person:

USA-Lima-Santiago-P.Montt.....Bariloche-Buenos Aires-Iguassu-Rio-USA

From Miami US$1960-2,400; New York US$2,100-2,500; Los Angeles US$2,300-2,700

3 Days/2 nights: Including two nights hotel accommodations at hotel Dorado with American breakfast, city tour of Cuzco with visit to ruins nearby, full day excursion to Machu Picchu with train- bus tickets, entrance fees, English speaking tour guides, transfers on arrival and departure and local AIRFARE LIMA-CUZCO-LIMA. Sharing double $1330.00; Sharing triple $1,303.00; Single $1,600.00

PERU & BRAZIL
                                              

(Inkas & Sambas) 

Visiting Lima "City of Kings", Cuzco and the Lost City of the Inkas "Machu Picchu", Salvador Bahia, Manaus, Iguassu Falls and the Carnival City of the World "Rio De Janeiro" 

INDEPENDENT DAILY DEPARTURES

18 days/17 nights
DAY 01 U.S.A-LIMA: Depart USA for Lima, Peru via American Airlines. After going through customs and immigration, you will be met and transfer to your hotel. 
DAY 02 LIMA-CUZCO: Transfer to the airport for flight to Cuzco. Upon arrival, you will be taken to your hotel. Morning best to rest and get used to the high altitude. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Cuzco, the most important city in The Inka Empire and visit to the ruins nearby such as Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Puca-Pucara and Tambomachay. (B)
DAY 03 CUZCO-MACHU PICCHU-CUZCO: Full day excursion by bus & train to the most mysterious and energetic place of the Inka civilization. Early morning your tour guide will pick you up and transfer you to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour trip with spectacular views of the the Urubamba River and the Andean mountain range to Machu Picchu. Temples, palaces, towers and staircases are built into the side of the mountain. Here your tour guide will take you from site to site explaining the advanced world of the Inkas. Mid -afternoon return to Cuzco. (Overnight in M. Picchu available upon request). (B).
DAY 04 CUZCO: Day at leisure to explore Cuzco on your own and take advantage of great bargains such as sweaters, ponchos, alpaca rugs, etc. (B).
DAY 05 CUZCO-LIMA: Transfer to the airport for flight to Lima with transfer to the new hotel Faraona located in Miraflores. Afternoon at leisure to explore Lima on your own. (B).
DAY 06 LIMA: Day at leisure to visit some of the most interesting museums in all South America such as the Gold Museum, Archaeological Museum or Banco de la Nacion Museum. (B)
DAY 07 LIMA-SAO PAULO-SALVADOR: Depart for Salvador Bahia -first Capital of Brazil. Arrive Bahia and transfer to hotel selected. Balanced of day at leisure.
DAY 08 SALVADOR: Morning city tour of Salvador Bahia also, call city of churches. Other highlights include the Museum of Sacred Art and the Mercado Modelo for Afro-Brazilian handicraft, then visit the beautiful beaches. (BB)
DAY 09 SALVADOR BAHIA: At leisure to explore this magnificent city and first Capital of Brazil, more than 300 churches are in the colonial part of Salvador and lots of beautiful buildings from the late 1800's. Lots of Afro-Brazilian history and customs in this city. (BB)
DAY 10 SALVADOR-MANAUS: Transfer to the airport for flight to Manaus "Capital of the Brazilian Amazon" You will be met and taken to hotel selected for the night. (BB)
DAY 11 MANAUS: Full day excursion to see the "Meeting of the Waters" where the Negro River meets the Amazon River traveling together for miles without mixing their waters; continue for "dugout" canoe trip through the flooded jungle, called "Igarapes" and "Igapos" where you will see the huge famous "Victoria Regias" (Amazon water lilies). (BB,L).
DAY 12 MANAUS - IGUASSU: Flight from Manaus to Sao Paulo for immediate connection to Iguassu Falls. Arrive and transfer transfer to hotel Das Cataratas. (BB)
DAY 13 IGUASSU: Morning tour of one of the wonders of the world. You’ll see more than 275 separate falls, literally tons of water hurtling over precipices higher than a 30 story building. Afternoon free to explore this National Park on your own. (BB)
DAY 14 IGUASSU - RIO DE JANEIRO: Noon transfer to the airport for flight to Rio de Janeiro "TheCarnival City of the World" with transfer to your hotel. (BB)
DAY 15 RIO DE JANEIRO: Morning tour to see imposing Statue of Christ the Redeemer atop the Corcovado Peak, overlooking Guanabara Bay, Rio and fabulous beaches. (BB)
DAY 16 RIO DE JANEIRO: Morning tour to Pao de Azucar, a 1,300 foot high mass that has become one of Rio’s most recognizable landmarks. We make the ascent by cable car to photograph the awe-inspiring views. (BB)
DAY 17 RIO DE JANEIRO: Day at leisure to enjoy the famous beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema, Botafogo or take an optional tour to Petropolis, Buzios and more. (BB)
DAY 18 RIO DE JANEIRO-MIAMI/NEW YORK/LOS ANGELES OR CHICAGO: 
Day at leisure until transfer to the airport for your return flight to U.S.A. (Room paid until 6 PM). (BB)

INCLUDING:

Round trip airfare from Miami to Lima and Rio de Janeiro to Miami via American Airlines (see add-ons from other USA cities below) From Lima to Rio via Tam or Gol airlines. Meeting and transfer service in all cities including tips for handling luggage at airports. Tours as noted including entrance fees with English speaking tour guides. Hotel accommodations (as selected) including tax and service charges for 17 nights. Meals included are marked BB =Breakfast; L = Lunch and D = Dinner. 
 

NOT INCLUDED:

USA departure tax/fuel surcharge/security of US$200-400 (please take note this amount changes all time due to fuel increases)....Brazil Airport tax $20; insurance, tips. Rates subject to change at any time.

2012 AIR-LAND TOUR COST (Rates per person) 

HOTELS USED: In Iguassu: Hotel Tropical Cataratas

Special rates apply for Christmas, New Year and Carnival.  

3 Stars Hotels:

Faraona (Lima), Royal Inka (Cuzco), Novotel (Manaus), Royalty (Rio), Marazul (Salvador);  San Martin (Iguassu)
4 Stars Hotels:

Las Palmeras (Lima), Novotel (Cuzco), Novotel (Manaus), Miramar (Rio), Tropical Bahia (Salvador); Bourbon (Iguassu)
5 Stars Hotels:

Swissotel or Marriott (Lima), Libertador (Cuzco), Tropical (Manaus), Rio Othon or Sofitel (Rio),Bahia Othon or Sofitel  (Salvador) and Hotel Cataratas in Iguassu (Brazilian side)

** SEASONS: From Jun.18 to Aug.15 add $100 pp; from Dec.09 to 26 add $350 to all rates. From Jan.02 to Mar.31 add $220 pp. This package is not available during Carnival, Christmas and New Years dates. Please call for special rates.

ADD-ONS VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES:

For same package add $80 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL or WAS ; add $100 from CHI, CLE, DTT, RDU. Add $170 from DEN, DFW, HOU, LAX, SFO, MSY. Add $140 from ATL, ORL, TPA. Add $130 from Zone 1; Add $200 from SJU & Zone 2,4,5. Add $280 from Zone 3 & 6. ). 

DEPOSIT/FINAL PAYMENTS: $300 deposit per person at the time of booking. Final Payment is due 60 days before departure.

PERU-CHILE-ARGENTINA 

Visiting Lima-Cuzco-Machu Picchu- Santiago de Chile,

Buenos Aires and Iguassu Falls

14 days / 13 Nights

Independent departures from Miami, New York, Los Angeles via LAN Airlines

DAY 01 MIAMI-LIMA
Depart USA via LAN Airlines. Arrive in Lima, Capital of Peru. Reception and transfer to hotel selected. (B)
DAY 02 LIMA 
Morning sightseeing tour of Lima, founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and called "City of Kings". Your guided tour will take you to see the most important sites of modern and colonial Lima. (B)
DAY 03 LIMA-CUZCO FLIGHT
Transfer to the airport for flight to Cuzco. Reception and transfer to hotel selected. Afternoon city tour of Cuzco –at one time- Capital of the Inka Empire. Then, continue to the surrounding valley and ruins of Kenko, Tambomachay, Puca-Pucara and the impressive Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. (B)

DAY 04 CUZCO-MACHU PICCHU
Full day excursion via alpine train to Machu Picchu. Early morning transfer to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour train ride along the Urubamba river to Aguas Calientes, then by bus up to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Here your guide will explain the advanced world of the Inkas. Temples, palaces, towers and staircases are built into the side of the mountain –it is a very magnificent site. Late afternoon return to Cuzco by train and to hotel selected. (B) 

DAY 05 CUZCO-LIMA FLIGHT
Transfer to the airport for flight to Lima with transfer to hotel selected. Afternoon at leisure. (B)
DAY 06 LIMA-SANTIAGO
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Santiago de Chile via Lan Chile. (Dinner on board).Arrive in Santiago and transfer to hotel selected. (B)
DAY 07 SANTIAGO
Morning tour of Santiago -Capital of Chile, City tour begins at Santa Hill and continues with drive through residential areas of Pedro de Valdivia Norte, El Golf and Vitacura. Returning to town, take in such famous landmarks as Fine Arts Museum, National Congress Building and Moneda. Chile’s Presidential PalaceAt leisure to explore the city on your own or take an optional tour. (B)

DAY 08 SANTIAGO-WINERY
Morning excursion.Drive south out of Santiago past La Florida, a new suburb, in the southern districts of Santiago and continue toConcha y Toro winnery, founded in 1883, the country’s largest wine exporter. A complete guided tour of the facility begins in the vineyards, some of which were planted by founder (and noted winemaker) Spanish nobleman Don Melchor de Concha y Toro himself, covers every step of the wine-making process and includes a wine tasting.The excursion continues with a drive through Maipo Canyon, a great place to examine the Andes in all their stunning, eternally snow-capped glory. Return to Santiago. Afternoon at leisure. (B)
DAY 09 SANTIAGO-BUENOS AIRES
Transfer to the airport for flight to Buenos Aires with transfer to your hotel.(B)
DAY 10 BUENOS AIRES
Morning sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires, The Argentina capital boasts a population of 9 million. City tour takes you to the Plaza de Mayo for view of Cathedral and Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace).Then along 9 de Julio Avenue, widest street in the world, with its much-photographed Obelisk and Colon Theater and finally, to the colorful Boca District .Afternoon at leisure to visit famous Florida Street for leather buys (B)
DAY 11 BUENOS AIRES-IGUASSU FLIGHT
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Iguassu Falls. Afternoon walking tour to explore never-to-be forgotten spectacle of 275 cataracts, literally miles of water hurtling over precipices higher than a 30-story building. Overnight on the Argentinian side. (B)
DAY 12 IGUASSU-BUENOS AIRES FLIGHT
Morning free to explore the area on your own. Afternoon transfer to the airport for flight to B.Aires. (B)
DAY 13 BUENOS AIRES
At leisure to enjoy B.Aires on your own. (BB)
DAY 14 BUENOS AIRES
Transfer to the airport for your flight to USA. (BB)

ADD-ONS TO THE MIAMI RATE: From Zone 1 & 2 add $230; Zone 3 $280; Zone 4, 5 & 6 $330

CITY ZONES  FOR LAN CHILE AIRLINES:

ZONE 1: ATL, JAX, ORL, TPA, EYW, FMY, JAX, TPA (via Miami)

ZONE 2: LIT, AUS, ABQ, DFW, ELP, HOU, MSY, OKC, SAT, TUL, ABI, ACT, FSM, FYV, GGG, LAW, SJT, SPS (via Miami)

ZONE 3: BOS, BWI, WAS, BGR, PHL, GSP (via NYC); BDL, BOS, BWI, PHL, RDU, WAS, ALB, BDL, BUF, CAE, CHS, CLT, GSO, MHT, ORF, PIT, PVD, RDU, RIC, ROC, SYR, PHL, (Via MIAMI)

ZONE 4: AZO, BNA, CLE, DTT, GRB, GRR, IND, LAN, MBS, MEM, MKC, MSN, MSP, OMA, SDF, CHI, CID, DSM, DTT, GRR, MKE, CHI, CID, CLE, DSM, DTT, GRR, ICT, MKE, MKC, MSP, OMA, STL, COS, TUS, PIA, BNA, CHA, CLE, CVG, IND, MKE, SDF, TYS, BHM, CMH, DAY (Via MIAMI) and 

PHX (via LAX)

ZONE 5: DEN LAS RNO SAN SFO SCJ FAT MRY OAK SNA; BOI DEN EUG GEG LAS RNO SAN SFO SJC SLC OAK; DEN; BOI EUG GEG SFO; LAS, PHX (Via L.ANGELES) COS, MSO (Via MIAMI)

ZONE 6: PDX, SEA, ANC (Via L.ANGELES)

PERU & BOLIVIA "AN INKA LEGACY"

Visiting Lima, Cusco, The Inka citadel of Machu Picchu, The Sacred Valley of Urubamba, Lake Titicaca,

The old city of Tiahuanaco and the Highest Capital in the World "La Paz" 

12 Days/11 nights

Daily departures from Miami, New York or Los Angeles

Day 01 MIAMI-LIMA:  

Depart USA for Lima, Peru. After going through customs and immigration, you will be met and taken to one of the new hotels located in the pretty neighborhood of Miraflores.

Day 02 Lima:  

Early afternoon your tour guide will take you to visit the famous Gold Museum with more than 10,000 Gold pieces, textiles and metal work from Pre-Inka and Inka civilizations, some of them 4,000 years old. (B).

DAY 03 LIMA-CUZCO:  

Transfer to Lima airport for flight to Cuzco where you will be taken to your hotel in Cuzco. Morning best to rest and get used to the high altitude. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Cuzco -the center of the universe for the Inka civilization- visiting the Temple of Koricancha or Sun God, the Cathedral and the ruins nearby such as Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Puca-Pucara and Tambomachay. (B)

DAY 04 PISAC-OLLANTAYTAMBO-URUBAMBA:  

Full day excursion to visit the colorful indigenous market of Pisac (only Tue, Thu, Sun) where hundreds of natives come to town wearing their unique customes, to exchange or buy products. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue with your tour guide to see and learn about the impressive fortress built the Inka

General Ollantaytambo. Overnight in the Urubamba Valley at Posada del Inka or hotel Urubamba. (B,L)

DAY 05 URUBAMBA-MACHU PICCHU:  

Full day excursion by train to the most mysterious and energetic place of the Inka civilization. Early morning your tour guide will pick you up and transfer you to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour trip -with spectacular views of the the Urubamba River and the Andean mountain range, to Machu Picchu. Temples, palaces, towers and staircases are built into the side of the mountain. Here your tour guide will take you from site to site explaining the advanced world of the Inkas. Overnight at Hotel El Pueblo. (B)

DAY 06 MACHU PICCHU-CUZCO:  

Day at leisure to explore the "Lost City " of Machu Picchu on your own. You can walk for 2 miles towards the Intipunko (main entrance of M.Picchu in Inka times), or take a back trail to see the old Inka bridge carved on the side of the mountain, or just relax, take pictures and absorb the powerful energy of the place. Mid-afternoon return to Cuzco by train and bus.(B)

DAY 07 CUZCO:  

Day at leisure to explore the Inka city of Cuzco on your own (Cuzco is like big open museum) or take advantage of great bargains for sweaters, ponchos, rugs, handicrafts, etc. (or you can take an optional half day excursion to Chincheros, Maras or Piquillacta). (CB).

Day 08 CUZCO-PUNO 

Early in the morning transfer to the train station for a full day ride across the Altiplano as you pass through many villages and small towns. Late in the afternoon arrive in Puno - and transfer to your hotel. (CB)

Day 09 PUNO-LAKE TITICACA: 

Depart Puno by bus to visit the colorful Andean town of Copacabana and the Church of Nuestra Senora de Copacabana. Continue by Hidrofoil to visit the Sun & Moon Islands and drink water from the Sacred Spring -believed to be the source of eternal life Then continue to the shores of Lake Titicaca for hotel Inca Utama. Late afternoon you will visit the Eco and Altiplano museums. After dinner you will have a chance to discover the spiritual world of the Callawayas -masters in natural medicine of the Andes. Within their concept, you must first heal the spirit before you can heal the body . A meeting with a Shaman will tell your fortunes as He casts and reads the Coca leaves. Overnight at the Inca Utama. (B,L,D)

Day 10 LAKE TITICACA-TIAHUANACO-LA PAZ: 

Wake up at the sound of the "Pututu" -a native alpine horn- to see the Sunrise and experience like the local people the energy of the Sun God. Depart Lake Titicaca for a half day sightseeing tour of the ancient ruins of Tiahuanaco, capital of a great civilization that started in 1580 B.C and at the height of its splendor (700 AC) covered part of Bolivia, Argentina and Peru. Here, you will see its Aqueducts, Temples, Palaces, the Gate of the Sun and some of their mysterious monoliths, then continue to La Paz for overnight. (B)

Day 11 LA PAZ: 

Morning city tour of the Capital of the Altiplano (13,000 feet high). You will visiting the Open Air Museum and Tiahuanaco Art collection, Casa Murillo, the local and picturesque witch Doctor street , the 16th Century San Francisco Church, the residential area of Obrajes and the unrealistic Moon Valley. (B)

Day 12 LA PAZ-USA: 

Transfer to the airport for flight to Miami with immediate connections to more than 100 USA cities

TOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES:

• Hotel accommodations for 11 nights including room taxes and service charges. (Hotels as mentioned in itinerary). • Daily breakfast.• Transfers to/from airport and train station. • Tours as mentioned including entrance fees. • English speaking tour guide. • Tips to airport and hotel porters. • Round trip airfare from Miami via American Airlines (See add-ons from more than 100 USA cities).

NOT INCLUDED: •Meals, unless specified in itinerary. • Insurance. • Tips to tour guide or bus driver. • Any other service not mentioned in itinerary. • Lima and Cuzco $5.00 each and upon leaving Peru $25.00. • USA departure tax/fuel surcharge/security of US$200-400 (please take note this amount changes all time due to fuel increases).

All rates in USA dollars. Air portion is subject to availability.

HOTELS 3 stars:

Lima=Faraona; Cuzco=Don Carlos; Puno=Sillustani or Casa Andina; La Paz= Presidente

HOTELS 4 stars:

Lima=Maria Angola; Cuzco= Sonesta or Dorado; Puno=Casa Andina Private Collection; La Paz=Presidente

HOTELS 5 stars:

Lima=Radisson or Marriot; Cuzco=Monasterio or Aranwa; Puno=Esteves; La Paz=Radisson

SEASONS & ADD-ONS VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES:

$150 from TPA, ORL and ZONE 1; $220 from ATL, BDL, BOS, BWI, CHI, CLE, DEN, DFW, EWR, HOU, MSY, NYC, PHL, RDU, SJU, WAS and ZONE 2, 3 and 4; $300 from LAX, SFO and ZONE 5; $400 from JAC, PDX, SEA

(From Jun.18 to Aug.15 and Jan.1 to Mar.31 add $190 pp.) (From Dec.12 to 31, add $350 to all rates). RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME.

INSURANCE: Tara Tours Inc. strongly recommends that you purchased travel insurance. Insured America has designed a policy for Tara Tours clients. Cost for this program is $104-129 per person (see inclusions in back page).

DEPOSITS: US$300.00 at the time of booking.

FINAL PAYMENT: 60 days before departure.

CANCELLATIONS: Please see back page for terms & conditions.

PERU & ARGENTINA 

NN

Visiting Lima-Cuzco-Machu Picchu-

Buenos Aires and Iguassu Falls

14 days / 13 Nights

Independent departures from Miami, New York, Los Angeles via Lan Airlines

Day 01 SUN. MIAMI-LIMA:  

Depart USA for Lima, Peru. After going through customs and immigration, you will be met and taken to hotel selected.

DAY 02 MON. LIMA-CUZCO: 

Transfer to the airport for flight to Cuzco, where you will be met and taken to your hotel. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Cuzco -the center of the universe for the Inca civilization- visiting the Temple of Koricancha or Sun God, the Cathedral and the ruins nearby such as, Kenko, Puca-Pucara, Tambomachay and Sacsayhuaman an impressive megalithic construction, strategically placed on a hill overlooking the city of Cusco, It name means "satisfied falcon" in Quechua. Formed by three successive walls of immense stones (the biggest one—28 feet high, 15 wide and 12 thick –must weigh some 360 tons.). The three walls are almost parallel. Forming a zig-zag, each supporting a terrace and parapet. The mind boggles at the thought of the effort that the building of this great monument must have cost men who did not have the wheel: the out side wall alone is 650 yards long. It is said that its construction, begun by the Inca Túpac Yupanqui, took more than seventy years and required the labor of over twenty thousand men. Overnite at hotel selected. (B).

DAY 03 TUE. PISAC-OLLANTAYTAMBO: 

Full day excursion to visit the colorful indigenous market of Pisac where hundreds of natives come to town wearing their unique customs, to exchange or buy products. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue with your tour guide to see and learn about Ollantaytambo A typical town of Inca origin. Its design and the foundations of the majority of its buildings date from the Inca era, when it was a strategic military, religious and agricultural center. Above it stands a fortress as a defense against the primitive inhabitants of the hot valleys of the "Antis" or jungle Indians. The fortress consist of a series of superimposed terraces of carved stone accessed by long staircases. The upper terrace contains large, admirably worked stone. It was here that Manco Inca fought the troops of Hernando Pizarro in 1537, leading a fierce resistance against the Spanish at command of a "General" Ollantay who continued for many years from Inca hideouts in the jungles of Vilcabamba. You have to climb to visit the upper part, where six enormous stones (each weighing some 50 tons) stand upright. Return to Cuzco late afternoon. (B,L)

DAY 04 WED. CUZCO-MACHU PICCHU: 

Full day excursion by train to the most mysterious and energetic place of the Inka civilization. Early morning your tour guide will pick you up and transfer you to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour trip -with spectacular views of the the Urubamba River and the Andean mountain range, to Machu Picchu. Temples, palaces, towers and staircases are built into the side of the mountain. Here your tour guide will take you from site to site explaining the advanced world of the Incas. Overnight at Hotel selected in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu. (B) 

DAY 05 THU. MACHU PICCHU-CUZCO: 

Day at leisure to explore the "Lost City " of Machu Picchu on your own. You can walk for 2 miles towards the Intipunko (main entrance of M.Picchu in Inca times), or take a back trail to see the old Inca bridge carved on the side of the mountain, or just relax, take pictures and absorbe the powerful energy of the place. Mid-afternoon return to Cuzco by train and bus.(B)

DAY 06 FRI. CUZCO:  

Day at leisure to explore the Inka city of Cuzco on your own (Cuzco is like big open museum) or take advantage of great bargaings for swaeters, ponchos, rugs, handicrafts, etc. (or you can take an optional half day excursion to Chincheros, Maras or Piquillacta). (B).

Day 07 SAT. CUZCO-LIMA: Transfer to the airport for flight to Lima with transfer to hotel selected. Early afternoon your tour guide will take you to visit the famous Gold Museum with more than 10,000 Gold pieces, textiles and metal work from Pre-Inka and Inka civilizations, some of them 4,000 years old. (B).

DAY 08 SUN. LIMA-BUENOS AIRES
Transfer to the airport for flight to Buenos Aires with transfer to your hotel. (B)
DAY 09 BUENOS AIRES
Morning sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires, The Argentina capital boasts a population of 9 million. City tour takes you to the Plaza de Mayo for view of Cathedral and Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace).Then along 9 de Julio Avenue, widest street in the world, with its much-photographed Obelisk and Colon Theater and finally, to the colorful Boca District .Afternoon at leisure to visit famous Florida Street for leather buys (B)
DAY 10 BUENOS AIRES-IGUASSU FLIGHT
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Iguassu Falls. Arrive and transfer to the Hotel Cataratas on the Argentinian side. (4stars) (B)

DAY 11 IGUASSU

Morning tour to explore never-to-be forgotten spectacle of 275 cataracts, literally miles of water hurtling over precipices higher than a 30-story building. Overnight on the Argentinian side. (B)
DAY 12 IGUASSU-BUENOS AIRES FLIGHT
Morning free to explore the area on your own. Afternoon transfer to the airport for flight to B.Aires. (B)
DAY 13 BUENOS AIRES
At leisure to enjoy B.Aires on your own. (BB)
DAY 14 BUENOS AIRES
Transfer to the airport for your flight to USA. (BB)

INCLUDING:

Daily buffet breakfast; sightseeing tours as mention in itinerary; hotel accommodations for 13 nights as per itinerary with room taxes and service charge; private transfers on arrival and departure including baggage handling and tips to airport porters in  Lima, Cuzco, Buenos Aires and Iguassu; English speaking tour guides and entrance fees where necessary. International airfare via LAN AIRLINES from MIAMI (see add-ons from NEW YORK or LOS ANGELES) Local flights Lima-Cuzco-Lima and Buenos Aires-Iguassu-Buenos Aires. Daily breakfast.

NOT INCLUDED: 

Insurance (available with Insure America, cost for this program US$200-300; airport departure taxes, Argentina $32.50, Peru $28.00 -also for local flights there is a new airport tax of $2.00 to $5.00 per person ; visas; passports and any other service not specifically mentioned in itinerary. USA departure tax/fuel surcharge/security of US$200-400 (please take note this amount changes all time due to fuel increases).

Effective December 20^th, 2009 all US citizens will have to pay USD$131.00 upon arrival to Argentina

DEPOSIT: US$ 300.oo per person at the time of booking.

FINAL PAYMENT: 60 days before departure.

2012 LAND-AIR TOUR COST  FROM MIAMI

(From N.York add $300; L.Angeles add $380)

ALL RATES PER PERSON: Air is subject to availability.

SEASONS: Rates valid all year except from Jun.18 to Aug.15 (add $200 pp) and Dec.12 to 31 (add $350 per person )

Rates do not apply for Christmas, New Years or Carnival in Rio. Please call 1-800-327-0080.

AIR PORTION: Airfare via LAN AIRLINES (direct flight from MIAMI, NEW YORK AND LOS ANGELES). Due to cost of fuel airfare may change at any time. Air tickets may need to be done in advanced. Please call or e-mail us for an update.

HOTELS USED:

3 stars: LIMA= Faraona or Casa Andina; CUZCO= Don Carlos; B.AIRES= Impala; IGUASSU= Cataratas (Argentinian side)

4 stars: LIMA= Novotel or Radisson Suites Las Palmeras; CUZCO= Sonesta or Dorado; B.AIRES= Elevageor Pestanha; IGUASSU= Cataratas (Argentinian side)

5 stars: LIMA= Marriott or Radisson Miraflores; CUZCO= Libertador or Aranwa; B.AIRES= Marriot; SANTIAGO=Hyatt; IGUASSU= Sheraton (Argentinian side)

PERU & ECUADOR

Quito-Lima- Cuzco and "The Lost City of the Inkas" Machu Picchu

10 Days/09 Nights

DAY 01 USA-QUITO: 

Depart USA with American Airlines. Airport reception and transfer to hotel selected.

DAY 02 QUITO: 

Afternoon sightseeing tour of Quito, known as "Queen of the Andes" - visiting the modern Legislative Palace, San Agustin Monastery, Independence Square, La Compania Church, the Cathedral and many other places of interest in old and new Quito. (B)

DAY 03 OTAVALO COUNTRY TOUR

This excursion goes north, to the land of the Otavalos and South America’s most famous Indian fair along the Panamerican Highway through dramatic mountain scenery to the textile market of Otavalo, where guests will enjoy visiting the many stalls full of ponchos, scarves, blankets, wall hangings, woven belts (fajas), hats, handbags and much more. Here Otavaleños barter in silence, in marked contrast to the raucous noise of other markets; take your time to negotiate the best bargains. Then, proceed to Peguche, an Indian village very near Otavalo that is home to the artisans who do the weaving in their homes; guests can learn about their culture and everyday life and then take the cobblestone road to San Pablo, with a stop along the way at a weaving workshop specialized in fine backstrap loom woven textiles. Lunch is at one of the charming country inns or haciendas of the area. (B,L)

DAY 04 QUITO

Day at leisure to explore Quito on your own or take an optional excursion. (B)

DAY 05 QUITO-LIMA

Transfer to the airport for flight to Lima. Arrive and transfer to hotel in Miraflores, e beautiful district in Lima near the Pacific Ocean. (B)

DAY 06 LIMA: 

Afternoon sightseeing tour of Lima, founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and called "City of Kings". Your guided tour will take you to see the most important sites of modern and colonial Lima. (B)

DAY 07 LIMA-CUZCO: 

Transfer to the airport for flight to Cuzco. Reception and transfer to the hotel selected. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Cuzco, the most important city in The Inka Empire with stops at the Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), main square, the Cathedral and visit to the ruins nearby such as Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Kenko, Puca-Pucara and the Inka Spa of Tambomachay. (B)

DAY 08 CUZCO-MACHU PICCHU: 

Full day excursion via alpine train to Machu Picchu. Early morning transfer to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour train ride along the Urubamba river to Putucusi bridge, then by bus up to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Here your guide will explain the advanced world of the Inkas. Overnight in Machu Picchu or Aguas Calientes (see hotel selection below) (B,D)

DAY 09 MACHU PICCHU-CUZCO: 

Morning at leisure to explore the magnificent archeological site on your own. Late afternoon return to Cuzco by train and to the Hotel selected for overnight. (B)

DAY 10 CUZCO-LIMA-USA

Transfer to the airport for flight to Lima where you will be connecting with flight to USA. (B)

2012 LAND TOUR COST PER PERSON (includes local airfare Lima-Cuzco-Lima)

3 star hotels: DBL US$2590

4 star hotels: DBL US$2770

5 star hotels: DBL US$3481

HOTELS USED:

3 stars: Quito: La Rabida, Lima: Faraona; Cuzco: Royal Inka; Machu Picchu: Inti/Presidente

4 stars: Quito: Dann Carlton, Lima: Sonesta Posada del Inka; Cuzco: Sonesta; Machu Picchu: El Mapi

5 stars: Quito: Hilton Colon, Lima: Casa Andina Private Collection; Cuzco: Libertador or Aranwa; Machu Picchu: El Pueblo or Sumaq

INCLUDING:  

Tours as mentioned in itinerary including entrance fees and English speaking tour guides; hotel accommodations of your choice for 09 nights including room taxes and service charges of 15% in Ecuador and 25% in Peru; round trip bus/train tickets to Machu Picchu; meals as noted B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner; all transfers to airport, hotel and ports; airfare Lima-Cuzco-Lima. 

NOT INCLUDED:  

International airfare (USA-Quito-Lima-USA) Services not mentioned in itinerary; Passport fees; Airport departure taxes of $2.00 to $5.00 for local flights in Ecuador and Peru; Insurance;  Tips to hotel porters and tour guides; USA departure tax/security/fuel surcharges; Ecuador airport departure tax of $32 to 48 depending on airport; Peru airport departure taxes of $30.

DEPOSITS/PAYMENTS: 

US$250.00 per person at the time of booking. Full payment is due 60 days prior to departure.

INSURANCE:  

Through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$164-200. Please see information on back page.

Tara's Quick visit to South America

Brazil-Argentina-Peru

Visiting Rio De Janeiro, Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires,

Lima and mighty Machu Picchu

12 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

Independent departures - Locally hosted

DAY 01. USA-RIO DE JANEIRO:  

Departs Miami, New York, Atlanta or Los Angeles for your overnight flight to Rio de Janeiro. (Ask for add-ons from other cities in U.S.A )

DAY 02 RIO DE JANEIRO:  

Upon arrival in Rio, transfer to hotel selected. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Sugar Loaf. Drive along Rio's famous beaches to the Praia Vermelha (Red Beach) cable car station where you will be taken to the Urca Mountain (mid-way station) with its gardens and look-out points. Then, the second part of the ride will take you to the peak of the Sugar Loaf Mountain, 1300 ft above sea level to photograph the awe-inspiring views. (BB)

DAY 03 RIO DE JANEIRO:  

A quick drive from your hotel to the Cosme Velho Train Station. The cog wheel train will climb up through the Tijuca Rain Forest and will bring you to the steps of the Christ Statue. At 2.300 ft above sea level, a breathtaking view of the city of Rio de Janeiro, the Guanabara Bay, Sugar Loaf Mountain, the 9 mile Rio-Niteroi Bridge, the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean (3-4 hours)

DAY 04. RIO DE JANEIRO - IGUASSU:  

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Iguassu Falls. Arrive and transfer to hotel selected. (B)

DAY 05 IGUASSU:  

Morning tour of the falls (Brazilian side)  -a never-to-be forgotten spectacle of 275 cataracts, literally miles of water hurtling over precipices higher than a 30-story building. Afternoon at leisure (B)

DAY 06 IGUASSU- BUENOS AIRES:  

Morning depart Brazil for the Argentinian side of Iguassu Falls (Immigration formalities at the border).  Upon arrival to the Visitors Center and the Iguazu National Park Entrance, you will board a gas-propelled train, that will take you to the upper falls circuit and the Devil’s Throat. Once you are at the Devil’s Throat Station you will walk for about one kilometer on a flat catwalk built over the Upper Iguassu River. This catwalk crosses several islands where there are snack bars. Once you get to the end of the catwalks, on the side of the gorgeous Devil’s Throat. The tour to Devil’s Throat has an approximate duration of 1 ½ hour. (Each station and catwalks have snack bars and toilets to cater to the visitor) During this visit the Falls will be seen from up close allowing for the detailed appreciation of both flora and fauna as well the Falls who are literally at the reach of one’s hands. . Then, transfer to the airport for flight to Buenos Aires, where you will met and accompanied to your hotel.  (B)

DAY 07 BUENOS AIRES

Morning half-day tour around South America’s most elegant capital. On the way we will see Plaza de Mayo and the buildings that surround it: Casa Rosada (Government House), Cabildo (Old City Hall), The City Hall. Then, on to see the monumental Congress Building and its Square and along 9 de Julio Ave., the widest in the world, to see the Colon Theater, famous Opera House that stages the most important artists and musicians from all over the world. We will also visit San Telmo, Puerto Madero, Palermo Park with jacaranda and palo borracho trees which flower in spring and late summer, the polo field and the race track and the historical Recoleta Cemetery with its ornate memorials. (B)

DAY 08. BUENOS AIRES - LIMA: 

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima where you will be met and transfer to hotel selected. (BB)

DAY 09 LIMA

Afternoon sightseeing tour of modern and colonial Lima the "City of Kings" founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1,535 and the most important city in the Americas during the Spanish Viceroy times. You will be passing by Miraflores and San Isidro, the old district of Rimac, Main Square , the Cathedral, San Francisco Church, Torre Tagle Palace and many other landmarks as well as the modern section of the Capital of Peru. (B)

DAY 10 LIMA-CUZCO

Board flight to Cuzco and upon arrival,  you will be taken to hotel selected. Morning best to rest and get used to the high altitude. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Cuzco, the most important city in The Inka Empire with stops at the Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), main square, the Cathedral and visit to the ruins nearby such as Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Kenko, Puca-Pucara and the Inka Spa of Tambomachay. (B). See  City of Cuzco-Map

DAY 11 CUZCO-MACHU PICCHU

Full day excursion by train to the most mysterious and energetic place of the Inka civilization. Early morning your tour guide will pick you up and transfer you to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour trip with spectacular views of the Urubamba River and the Andean mountain range to Machu Picchu. Temples, palaces, towers and staircases are built into the side of the mountain. Here your tour guide will take you from site to site explaining the advanced world of the Inkas. Mid-afternoon return to Cuzco. Transfer to hotel selected. (B)

DAY 12  CUZCO-LIMA-USA

Transfer to the airport for flight to Lima where you will be connecting with your international flight to USA. (B)

HOTELS USED:

3 stars:

LIMA= Faraona; CUZCO= Don Carlos; BUENOS AIRES= Impala; IGUASSU= Viale Cataratas; RIO= Savoy

4 stars:

LIMA= Sonesta Posada del Inka; CUZCO= Dorado or Sonesta Posada Del Inka; BUENOS AIRES= Elevage or Pestanha; IGUASSU= Bourbom; RIO= Leme Palace

5 stars:

LIMA= Casa Andina; CUZCO= Libertador; BUENOS AIRES= Marriot; IGUASSU= Sheraton; RIO= Sofitel

DEPOSITS/PAYMENTS: 

US$350.00 per person at the time of booking. Final payment is due 60 days prior to departure.

INSURANCE:  

Through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$235-400. Please see information on back page.

COSTA RICA & PANAMA

12 Day/11 night Program 

DAY 01 U.S.A-COSTA RICA:
Depart U.S.A. for San Jose, Capital of Costa Rica. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to the charming hotel Grano de Oro.
Day 02 SAN JOSE-MONTEVERDE
Early departure for an scenic 3-hour climb up the cool mountains to the Cloud Forest areas of Monteverde. Afternoon visit to the Park and guided walk. Overnight HOTEL MONTEVERDE or FONDA VELA (B)
Day 03 MONTEVERDE
Morning guided 4-hour walking tour of the Cloud Forest (bring comfortable walking boots or sneakers). Some 6 different ecological systems of flora and fauna, 320 varieties of birds and over 100 of mammals can be found in this area. Afternoon visit the Sky Trek -which is a system of trails, suspension bridges, and zip lines built within the Monteverde Cloud Forest that offers visitors the opportunity to observe and appreciate tropical forests from different vantage points. 
Sky Trek offers the opportunity to observe and appreciate tropical forests from different vantage points. A suspended bridge 90 meters (300 feet) long and 20 meters (66 feet) high, will give you the best view of the inner forest. Besides, you can have a panoramic view (360º) of the Guanacaste, San Carlos and Puntarenas lowlands. 
Four transversal cables 190 meters (63 feet) and 214 meters (713 feet) long run along the tree tops two inside, two outside. The hole system is integrated by a path 2.300 meters long (7000 feet). Sky Trek guarantees a stretch of 1,317 m of cables, and tours that last between 2.5 and 3 hours. (B)
Day 04 MONTEVERDE-SAN JOSE:
Depart Monteverde mid morning for San Jose. Arrive at your hotel in the early afternoon. (B)

Day 05 SAN JOSE-PANAMA
Transfer to the airport for flight to Panama. Arrive and transfer to Hotel Crown Plaza located in the commercial district of Panama. (B)
Day 06 PANAMA
Morning half day tour of Panama, visiting the most outstanding places of old and new Panama. Then a visit to Miraflores locks to see the famous canal and how it is operated. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy Panama on your own. (B)
Day 07 GAMBOA RAINFOREST RESORT
Morning transfer to this beautiful resort located on the Chagras river and only a mile away from the Canal, then excursion to visit the Aerial Tram end the Ecological Exhibits. Overnight at Gamboa rainforest resort.
Day 08 GAMBOA RAINFOREST RESORT
At leisure to explore the area on your own or enjoy the resort's facilities (spa, gym, fishing, boating, etc) or take an optional tour. (B)
Day 09 GAMBOA-ROYAL DECAMERON
Transfer to the Royal Decameron located in Playa Blanca (White beach)....and all inclusive resort with all meals at any of the 8 restaurants (breakfast & lunch are buffet style and a la carte dinners); unlimited domestic and international alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; daily activities program; non motorized water sports (wind glider, kayaks, snorkeling and sailboats); beach towels, chairs; tennis courts, basketball, volleys; nightly entertainment; unlimited drinks at the discotheque; taxes & tips included
Day 10-11 ROYAL DECAMERON
At leisure to enjoy the beaches and facilities. The Royal Decameron has Golf and Casino. (B,L,D)
Day 12 DECAMERON-PANAMA-USA : 
Transfer to the airport

INCLUDING:
11 nights hotel accommodations with room taxes and service charges. Meals as marked in itinerary (B=breakfast; L=lunch; D=dinner). Transfers on arrival and departure (airport/hotel/airport). English speaking naturalist tour guides and entrance fees when necessary. Ground transportation from San Jose to Monteverde and Tortuguero. Airfare from Miami with American Airlines. (See add-ons from other cities in USA or call us for updated information).

NOT INCLUDED:
Insurance (Insure America has designed a policy for Tara Tours clients. Cost for this program is $107.00-155.00 pp). See information at back page). Costa Rica airport departure tax of US$18.00. Passports or entry documents. Tips to tour guides. USA departure tax/fuel surcharge/security of US$100-200 (please take note this amount changes all time due to fuel increases).

 

2012 AIR/LAND TOUR COST PER PERSON FROM MIAMI:
Double US$3,220; Triple $3,202; Single Supplement $1510

Child rates 3-10years  25% off -when going with 2 adults

* From Jan.1 to Mar.31 and from Jul.01 to Aug.15, add $200 pp. From Dec.09 to 31 add $350 to all rates.

*SEASONS & ADD-ONS VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES:
Add $200 from Houston, Dallas, New Orleans or Orlando; Add $175 from ZONE 2; Add $230 from: ATL, BOS, BWI, CHI, CLE, DTT, PHL, RDU, WAS; Add $200 from: EWR, NYC, ORL, TPA, ZONE 1; Add $290 from: DEN, LAX, SFO + ZONE 4; Add $260 from BDL, SJU, +ZONE 3; Add $300 from ZONE 5; Add $350 from ZONE 6. (See Zone Chart at the end of the page).

AROUND CENTRAL AMERICA

Visiting Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, 

El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras & Belize

27 Days/26 nights

DAY 01 SAT. USA-PANAMA 
Arrive and transfer to hotel CROWN PLAZA or VENETO WINDHAM. 
DAY 02 SUN. PANAMA CITY TOUR
AM Panama City is a vibrant, cosmopolitan and beautiful city, Capital of the Republic of Panama, and located at the pacific side of the American Continent. Built in 1519 by Pedro Arias Davila, a Spanish Governor, it has been considered as on of the most important cities of the Americas. 
You will visit the oldest sector of modern Panama, known as the Casco Viejo. Other points of interest are the famed flat arch or Santo Domingo Church, the beautiful gold- plated altar of the San Jose Church, the Panama Canal Museum, the National Theater, the National Cathedral, the Presidential Palace and other numerous colonial churches and monuments. Then your tour will continue to see modern Panama and The Banking District and its beautiful Skyscrapers .The city is and important center of international finance and is home to more than 120 banks. Continue to visit Miraflores Locks & Panama Canal: 
Participants will be able to witness the magnificent Miraflores Locks and most probably, its operation. An expert canal guide will take us back in time to be part of it. What a way to experience this magnificent architectural masterpiece and to have a breathtaking view of the 8th wonder of the World. Overnight hotel CROWN PLAZA or VENETO WINDHAM (B)
DAY 03 MON. PANAMA-COSTA RICA 
Transfer to the airport. Arrive in San Jose and transfer to hotel IRAZU. (B)
DAY 04 TUE. SAN JOSE CITY TOUR
AM Get a taste of San José City and its surrounding areas!
This tour immerses you into the rich Costa Rican culture and history by experiencing the beautiful museums and historical sites of San José. It begins with an orientation and drive through the beautiful Sabana Park. Next the tour will continue through the historic National Theater, which was completed in 1897 and is a masterpiece in art and architecture. Then you will head to the University of Costa Rica, the Supreme Court, and other sites of interest. A brief stop will be made in Moravia allowing you to browse through the beautiful craft shops before returning to your hotel IRAZU. (B)
DAY 05 WED. SAN JOSE- MONTEVERDE
Morning drive to Monteverde with your driver/guide, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, one of the most diverse and richest tropical cloud forests in the New World is best known as home to the Resplendent Quetzal but has hundreds of other birds, mammals and plant species. Overnight in Monteverde at FONDA VELA LODGE (B, D.)
DAY 06 THU. MONTEVERDE
Morning visit to the Monteverde Canopy walkway composed of hanging bridges and nature trails that lets you observe Nature from a different perspective. In the afternoon hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve viewing the misty forest with its dense vegetation and majestic trees. Overnight in Monteverde at FONDA VELA LODGE. (B, D)
DAY 07 FRI. MONTEVERDE- SAN JOSE
Depart Monteverde for San Jose. Arrive San Jose mid-afternoon. Overnight hotel IRAZU (B)
DAY 08 SAT. COSTA RICA-NICARAGUA  
Transfer to the airport for flight to Managua. Arrive and transfer to new hotel HOLIDAY INN. (B)
DAY 09 SUN. MANAGUA CITY TOUR
Managua is the capital of Nicaragua since 1852. Managua is a very warm and sunny city.  Among the places to visit are: “National Historic Park Loma de Tiscapa”. We will know in much detail, the story behind national hero Augusto Cesar Sandino and the Somoza dictatorship. We will see the ruins of old presidential palace, destroyed by the earthquake that leveled the city. Then we will drive down to the old city center to visit the “Park of Peace”. We will also visit “El Malecon”, for a closer look at Lake Managua and surrounding areas. We will see the monument to Simon Bolivar, in the avenue of the same name. National Theater Ruben Dario, New Presidential House, Palace of culture and other buildings. The tour will take us to see the enigmatic human footprints of Acahualinca, (6000 years). We will also see the future center of the city with its modern and new metropolitan cathedral. Completing with a visit to the arts and craft market for souvenirs, and the Coffee House. Hotel HOLIDAY INN (B)
DAY 10 MON. MANAGUA-GRANADA
The colonial city of Granada was founded by Captain Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba in the year 1524. It was founded next to the Mombacho volcano and the great lake of Nicaragua. Named after the city of Granada in Spain, this city has plenty of colonial churches, narrow streets and large homes with beautiful indoor patios, tiled roofs and pretty colonial colors. Upon arrival, we will have a sightseeing tour to arrive later to the main plaza for our walking tour of the surrounding area. We will see “La Merced” church, the house of the Zamora family, the famous “Casa de Los Tres Mundos” and the San Francisco convent. Here, we will have the opportunity to see and take pictures of mysterious idols made by our ancestors. This is an impressive collection of genuine pre-Columbian sculptures in human and animal shapes. During the tour we will learn the history of the city, and about the adventures of filibuster William Walker, who invaded the city in the year 1855.  Then, we will continue to Lake Nicaragua for a relaxing boat ride around some of the islands. Formed by the impressive Mombacho volcano. See the volcanic evidence and influence of the area. Enjoy great landscape views and wildlife and of course have a chance to take pictures. After lunch at a local restaurant,
return to Managua. Hotel HOLIDAY INN (B, L) 
DAY 11 TUE. MANAGUA-SALVADOR 
Transfer to the airport. Arrive in San Salvador and transfer to hotel EL SALVADOR. (B)
DAY 12 WED. SAN SALVADOR 
AM we will drive through the streets and avenues of the city until we arrive at Santa Elena; a beautiful residential area. After this we will visit the National Anthropological Museum Dr. David J. Guzman, where we will be able to have a guided tour in this interesting historical location. We will continue our tour through La Zona Rosa where you will be able to find everything to satisfy your nightlife; then to the Paseo General Escalon, until we arrive to the monument of the Divino Salvador del Mundo, located in the Plaza Las Americas. Then, we will continue the tour until we arrive at the monument of the Fallen Victims; then our tour shall continue through Los Heroes Boulevard, Alameda Juan Pablo II and Centro de Gobierno until we arrive to National Historical Center which will bring us very close to the Metropolitan Cathedral and to the National Palace; when we finish we will visit the monument of Central American Independence, then we shall go to a view-point located in Planes de Renderos,  for a magnificent view of the city and also access to a gallery of hand crafted artifacts. Hotel EL SALVADOR (B)
DAY 13 THU. SAN SALVADOR -La Palma and San Ignacio. 
Today we will take you to La Palma, one of the most re-known cities for its art. Here interesting crafts are painted on wood and Copinol seeds with a singular artistic expression and beautiful colors. Also because we will be on an altitude of 1200 Mts. above sea level you are going to find a very pleasant climate. In La Palma, we will visit local craftsman’s workshops; so we can have the opportunity to learn about their art and above all, you will be able to participate in the elaboration of one of these beautiful pieces and take it home as a souvenir of your unforgettable stay. After lunch we re-take our journey to the town of San Ignacio, a gorgeous and quiet place located on the roots of the Petal Mountain, the highest mountain of El Salvador. Hotel EL SALVADOR (B)
DAY 14 FRI. SAN SALVADOR -Joyas del Ceren
Joya de Ceren is considered to be the most important archeological site ever discovered in El Salvador, which was declared world heritage by UNESCO in 1993 for being the only location in the whole Mayan culture where you can appreciate the day to day living styles of the popular pre-Columbian inhabitants. All was well preserved thanks to the ashes of the volcano’s eruption. We will return to the city through the Pan-American Highway going up and through the mountains that belong to El Balsamo´s mountain range, and to finish our tour, we will stop at a restaurant to enjoy a good local lunch. Hotel RADISSON (B)
DAY 15 SAT. EL SALVADOR-HONDURAS 
Depart San Salvador for San Pedro de Sula. Arrive and transfer to Hotel GRAN SULA. (B)
DAY 16 SUN. SAN PEDRO DE SULA -Full day Copan
Visit the most beautiful Mayan site where you will observe archaeologists at work excavating and marking new discoveries. Visit the archaeological park, museum and the quaint village of Copan. Late afternoon return to San Pedro Sula. Hotel GRAN SULA.
ABOUT COPAN
Since it was discovered by John Stephens in 1839, Copan has become the highest artistic and cultural achievement of the ancient Maya civilization. Often referred to as the Athens of the Maya world, the great works and peaceful surrounding of the forested Copan valley seldom fail to touch the hearts of most modern visitors. Today Copan has been named an UNESCO World Heritage site and a Honduran national monument. Also, it holds the new sculpture museum-an architectural landmark. 
DAY 17 MON. SAN PEDRO DE SULA
Depart from your hotel to visit one of the many banana plantations in the area. Here you will receive a brief history about bananas, how they are planted, harvested, transported and packed for shipping. You will visit the headquarters village of La Lima, home of the Chiquita Banana. Upon returning to San Pedro Sula visit the museum, the residential areas, and the Guamilito artisan market to do your souvenir shopping. Hotel GRAN SULA. (B)
DAY 18 TUE. HONDURAS-GUATEMALA 
Transfer to the airport. Depart San Pedro de Sula for Guatemala via San Salvador. Overnight hotel BARCELO.
DAY 19 WED. GUATEMALA 

Morning sightseeing tour of the Capital city, visiting the most important sites of old and new Guatemala City. Afternoon at leisure for some shopping. Guatemala has beautiful handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs. Hotel BARCELO. (B)

DAY 20 THU. GUATEMALA-CHICHICASTENANGO
Early morning depart Chichicastenango. One of the Guatemala’s most popular tourist destinations. Chichicastenango allows a glimpse of centuries-old-Indian ceremonies in the setting of a bustling, colorful marketplace. Travelers make a point of visiting this village, located some 90 miles from Guatemala City, on Thursdays and Sundays, when Indians from 60 surrounding villages bring handicrafts, produce and livestock to a lively open-air market in the town square.
On arrival visit the colorful open-air market and Church of Santo Tomas. The afternoon is at leisure for further shopping or to see the town on your own. Overnight at the MAYAN INN. (B)
DAY 21 FRI. CHICHICASTENANGO-ATITLAN
In the morning, transfer to Lake Atitlan - Guatemala’s most majestic natural wonder, framed by three volcanoes and towering mountains...Arrive in Atitlan and join the launch excursion to the picturesque lakeside village of Santiago Atitlan. The afternoon is at leisure for further shopping or to see the town on your own. Overnight at hotel ATITLAN (B)
DAY 22 SAT. ATITLAN-ANTIGUA-CHICHICASTENANGO 
In morning you will depart for Antigua, the former Spanish Colonial Capital of the country and today a national monument of the Americas. Sightseeing tour of this charming town. A very pleasant city of cobble stones streets, houses and mansions with colonial-style facades and tile roofs. Your tour guide will take you to visit churches, convents, monasteries and other colonial buildings and explain the history of all these places. After lunch, continue to Guatemala City. Overnight Hotel BARCELO. (B)
DAY 23 SUN. GUATEMALA-TIKAL
Today, you will go back more than 2,000 years in time when you visit Tikal. Early morning transfer to the airport for flight to the city of Flores. Arrive and transfer by car or bus to the National Park of Tikal for a visit of the many pyramids, stelaes, temples and buildings of one of the major archaeological finds of the Americas "Tikal", the Capital of the Mayan Empire. After lunch you will visit the local museum to learn more about this great civilization. Overnight Hotel PETEN ESPLENDIDO on the shores of Lake Peten. (B, L)
DAY 24 MON. GUATEMALA-BELIZE 
Transfer to the airport in Flores for flight to Belize City where you will be connecting with local flight to Ambergrys Caye. Arrive and transfer to hotel Sunbreeze –just a block away from the local airport and great location facing the Caribbean Ocean. Overnight hotel SUNBREEZE. (B)
DAY 25-26  TUE-WED. AMBERGRYS
Days at leisure to explore the island or just relax and stay by the beach. Great snorkeling and diving. Overnight hotel SUNBREEZE
DAY 27 THU. AMBERGRYS-BELIZE-USA
Walk to the local airport in Ambergrys for flight to Belize City where you will be connecting with flight back to USA.

*2012 LAND TOUR COST: per person

Double: US$5,920; Triple $5,830; Single $9,700

AIR COST: per person

From Miami $1,600/1,750; New York $1,750/1,950; Los Angeles $1,800/1,990

(This cost of airfare includes portion from Panama-S.Jose-Managua-Salvador-San Pedro-Guatemala)

Airfare subject to change at any time. USA airport tax/fuel surcharges/security not included, about $250.
*From Jan.1 to Mar.31 and from Jul.01 to Aug.15, add $190 pp. From Dec.09 to 31 add $350 to all rates.

INCLUDING:
26 nights hotel accommodations with room taxes and service charges. Meals as marked in itinerary (B=breakfast; L=lunch; D=dinner). Transfers on arrival and departure (airport/hotel/airport). English speaking tour guides and entrance fees when necessary. All ground transportation for the different tours mentioned in this itinerary. Local airfare from Flores (Guatemala) to Belize City (Belize) and to Ambergris Caye. Entrance fees when necessary.

NOT INCLUDED:
U.S.A airport departure taxes ($100-200). Insurance (Insure America has designed a policy for Tara Tours clients. Cost for this program is $340 pp). Airport departure taxes –Costa Rica US$18.00, Belize $28, Guatemala $32, El Salvador $26, Honduras $28, Panama $30. Passports or entry documents. Tips to tour guides or bus drivers. Meals unless mentioned in you day by day itinerary.

Add $250 from New York or Washington DC (Dulles) $300 from Los Angeles via Copa  Airlines. 

For Triple deduct $25 per person. RATES SUBJECT TO AIR AVAILABILITY.

*From Jan.15 to Mar.30 & Jun.15 to Aug.15 -Please add $100 per person.

*For Holy Week please call us -1800-327-0080 or email us: tara@taratours.com

CHILDREN: 3 to 12 years old sharing room with 2 adults

Round trip airfare from Miami to Cartagena & Panama via COPA Airlines (See add-ons from other U.S.A cities... below); 4 nights at Hotel Beach Resort Royal Decameron;3 nights at the Cartagena Decameron; Transfers on arrival & departure; all meals at any of the several restaurants (breakfast & lunch are buffet style and a la carte dinners); unlimited domestic and international alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; daily activities  program; non motorized water sports (wind glider, kayaks, snorkeling and sailboats); beach towels, chairs; tennis courts, basketball, volleys; nightly entertainment; unlimited drinks at the discotheque; taxes & tips included.

Insurance, airport departure taxes -from USA $250, from Panama $20,Cartagena $20; tourist card $5.00 and any other service not specifically mentioned here.

NOTE: A

irlines change flight itineraries all the time....some flights may not connect at all times....also airfares are subject to class availability and cost may change at any time. Airline tickets may need to be done in advance.

ZONE 1: APF, EYW, FLL, FMY, JAX, PBI, SRQ.

ZONE 2: ABI, ABQ, ACT, AMA, AUS, BPT, BTR, CLL, CRP, ELP, FSM, FYV, GGG, HRL, ILE, JAN, LAW, LBB, LFT, LIT,LRD, MAF, MFE, OKC, SAT,SHV, SJT, SPS, TUL, TXK,TYR.

ZONE 3: ALB, BDL, BGR, BTV, BUF, CLT, GSO, GSP,HAR, HPN, ISP, MHT, ORF, ORH, PIT, PVD, PWM, RIC, ROC, SAV, SWF, SYR

ZONE 4: AZO, BHM, BNA, CID, CMH, CMI, COS, CVG, DAY, DBQ, DLH, DRO, DSM, EGE, EVV, FWA, GRB, GRR, GUC, HDN, HSV, ICT, IND, LSE, MEM, MKC, MKE, MSN, MSP, OMA, PHX, PIA, RST, SDF, SGF, STL, TOL, TUS, TVC, TYS, ALO, BRL, CGI, COU, DEC, FSD, IRK, MKL, JLN, LEX, LNK, MLI, MWA, OWB, PAH, SPI, SUX, SBN,TBN, UIN.

ZONE 5: BFL, BUR, FAT,LAS, LGB, MRY, OAK, ONT, PSP, RNO, SAN, SBA, SBP, SJC, SLC, SMF, SNA.

ZONE 6: JAC, PDX, SEA

For further information  have your Travel Agent call Tara Tours: 1-800-327-008

or e-mails us at

tara@taratours.com

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Last modifed: February 03, 2012