Monday 20 June 2016

Discover South America with Scott’s Travel and Latin Routes by Charles Maycock

Living and working in Latin America was part of my life for six years. The clear blue skies with white mountain peaks circling La Paz Bolivia were the backdrop to falling in love, marriage and raising a family. A love and appreciation for its peoples and diverse cultures also ensued. Everything from the remnants of Inca civilisation on the high Andean plateau to the easy sophistication of an evening in Buenos Aires have left their imprint on me. And this is a major reason we venture afar, to experience and understand the other road travelled.

But isn’t everything south of the Tex-Mex line best exploited by the backpacker? Fortunately, there is plenty accessible to those who like an upscale residence! At the ethereal Machu Picchu, the prestigious Belmond Hotel, The Sanctuary, is a flagship property mirrored by others in the Andean region which will aid the traveller on an extended itinerary of discovery. The monument itself was built as an estate for an Inca ruler in the 15th century, falling into disuse after the conquest, remaining unknown for many years. Although enveloped in the upper folds of mountainous terrain you can arrive in style by rail on the special Hiram Bingham train. For many, a trip to Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime experience. The Belmond Hiram Bingham assures a magical journey, never to be forgotten.

The most remarkable place I have ever been is Iguazu Falls, the engulfing water dominated chasm of
rainbow lights, mist and mystery; a place of both terror, spectacle and inspiration where those seeking to enhance their encounter can be immersed in the neo-Portuguese colonial Hotel Das Cataratas.

In faraway Rio de Janeiro so much can be enjoyed from any one of the luxurious hotels in the city whose twin landmarks of the Sugar Loaf Mountain and the immense statue of Christ, together with the famous beaches are all to wonder at. Two hours by car from Rio is the well-known and more relaxed resort of Buzios, where a fascinating collection of beach coves invite you to unwind.
Lovers of wildlife and the natural world will still be thrilled and delighted by a visit to the Amazon basin, traditionally a difficult area but now within reach on a P & O cruise. Alternatively, step into the unforgettable by booking a lodge for just a few nights.

Argentina boasts the coloured mountains in the north, and Chile’s outstanding mountain scenery contrasting sharply with the rainless Atacama…and many more.
There are people to meet, and new customs to discover together with some Spanish or Portuguese to be attempted or perfected. A guide is still more than useful on any tour, self-made or otherwise.

 
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Argentina to Brazil

Day 1 - 3: Buenos Aires
Fly overnight from the UK to Buenos Aires where you will spend 3 nights in the home of the tango, at a centrally located hotel.
Enjoy a fascinating Half Day City Tour on your first morning and learn about the fascinating history of Argentina which has shaped what the country has become today. You will also discover great places to see with the rest of your time.
With the rest of your time in the city you could discover one of the cities many art galleries or museums.
Day 4 - 5: Iguazu Falls
Fly from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazu where you will spend 2 nights discovering the almighty Iguazu Falls.
Enjoy a Half Day Tour to the Argentinian side of the Iguazu Falls and discover one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls. With the rest of your time in the area you can explore the national parks or try one of the numerous adventure activities on offer.
Day 6 - 7: Rio de Janeiro
In the morning you will fly to Rio de Janeiro for 2 nights in the “Marvellous City”. You will stay at a centrally located hotel in Copacabana. On your first day, enjoy an exciting Half Tour to Corcovado (Statue of Christ) where you will have some fantastic views over the city.
With the rest of your time you could visit the historic downtown area or the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Alternatively, you would be forgiven for spending your time sipping Caprhinias on the beautiful sands of Copacabana Beach!
Day 8 - 10: Buzios
In the morning you will take a transfer to Buzios for 3 nights. Buzios is a relaxed town on a peninsula which is home to over 20 stunning beaches. You can spend your time relaxing in the famous Brazilian sunshine or perhaps take a schooner trip for some world class snorkelling.
Day 11 - 12: Fly to UK
You will head back to Rio de Janeiro and on to the airport for your overnight flight back to the UK

Prices from £1989 per person *
*Based on 2 sharing, 2-3* accommodation, shared transfers and excursions (Enquire about upgrades and private transfers and tours)

Flavour of Peru
Day 1 - 3: Lima
Arrive Lima and spend 2 nights discovering Peru's bustling capital city. On your first morning you will enjoy a half day tour visiting some of the cities highlights including the main square and cathedral. In the evening why not enjoy Lima's thriving gastronomic scene.
Day 4 - 6: Cusco
Today you will fly to the UNESCO World Heritage Town of Cusco for 3 nights. On your first day you will explore the highlights of this fascinating town on a half day city tour including some ancient Incan sites in the surrounding area.
Your second day is at leisure and you may decide to relax around town or enjoy one of the many adventure activites in the areas surrounding Cusco.
Day 7 - 8: Sacred Valley
Today you Travel to the magical Sacred Valley for 2 nights. Here you can enjoy a relaxing day at leisure or you may decide to visit one of the ancient Inca sites in the area (not included)
Day 9 - 10: Machu Picchu
Today you will climb aboard the train to Machu Picchu. Here you will discover Peru's most iconic attraction with a guide to explain all about the history of the Incan Empire.
You will spend the night at Aguas Calientes and the following morning you may decide to return to Machu Picchu for sunrise (not included). In the afternoon you will take the train back to Cusco for your final night.
Day 11 - 12: Fly to Uk
In the morning you will head to Cusco Airport for your overnight flight back to the UK via Lima.

Prices from £1899 per person*
*Based on 2 sharing, 2-3* accommodation, shared transfers and excursions (Enquire about upgrades and private transfers and tours)

Wildlife of Brazil
Days 1 - 2:  Rio de Janeiro
Fly from the UK to Rio de Janeiro for 3 nights in the “Marvellous City”. You will stay for 2 nights at a centrally located hotel in Copacabana. On your first day, enjoy an exciting Half Tour to Corcovado (Statue of Christ) where you will have some fantastic views over the city.
With the rest of your time you could visit the historic downtown area or the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Alternatively you would be forgiven for spending your time sipping Caprhinias on the beautiful sands of Copacabana Beach!
Day 3 - 6: Amazon Rainforest
Fly from Rio de Janeiro to the city of Manaus which is the entry point for the Amazon Jungle. You will spend 1 night at a hotel near Manaus before heading down the Amazon River for 3 nights at the fantastic Amazon jungle lodge
Located deep in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, your stay at the jungle lodge will include a daily programme of excursions into the Jungle with their superb guides. At the end of a great day exploring you can relax at the lodge and full board meals are also included.
Day 7 - 9: Pantanal
You will head back to Manaus and fly on to the Pantanal, a vast expanse of wetlands, thought of as the best place to spot wild animals in the whole of South America. Upon arrival at the airport you will be transferred by 4x4 vehicle to your Pantanal lodge. Your stay at the lodge includes full board and a daily programme of wildlife safaris into the Pantanal, with their expert guides. Will you be lucky and spot the jaguar?
Day 10: Rio de Janeiro
With a camera full of the amazing sights, you will fly to Rio for one final night. Spend your afternoon stocking up on your souvenirs or maybe topping up your tan on Ipanema Beach.
Day 11 - 12: Fly to the UK
You will head back to Rio de Janeiro airport for your overnight flight back to the UK.

Prices from £3179 per person*
*Based on 2 sharing, 2-3* accommodation, shared transfers and excursions (Enquire about upgrades and private transfers and tours)


 To book please contact a member of our team on 020 8882 0141.

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