In the minds of many, Peru is inextricably associated with the Incas, the remarkable civilisation that, by the 16th century, had created one of the greatest empires in the world. Their territory stretched, in modern-day terms, from Colombia in the north, to Chile and Argentina in the south. Amazingly, this dominance was achieved without the benefit of the written word, ferrous metals, horses, currency or wheels. We stay for two days in the beautiful rural surroundings of the Sacred Valley, the bread basket of the Incas, and for two nights in Cusco, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the Americas. Nestling in dramatic Andean hills, it's among the continent's most interesting destinations. Immense, virtually earthquake-proof Incan walls line cobbled streets and form the foundations of some very well-preserved colonial buildings, reminiscent of medieval Spain. We see Cusco's cathedral, fabulous art and opulent treasure collections, as well as the main square where the conquistadors were almost overwhelmed.
Machu Picchu is the most striking image of Peru. One of the greatest archaeological discoveries of modern times, it is located along a ridge with a breathtaking landscape of rich rainforest, precipitous gorges and lofty peaks, stretching as far as the eye can see. Nothing prepares you for the excitement as you approach the site, and then the sheer exhilaration when it comes into view. You ascend a slope and, suddenly, there it is - the classic view you've seen in countless photographs, but all the more magnificent when seen firsthand.
Argentina, the second-largest country in South America, is known for its gauchos (cowboys), its huge steaks, its excellent wines, and the invention of the tango. We'll sample all of these during our three-night stay in Buenos Aires - sophisticated, cosmopolitan and the most 'European' of the South American capitals. With its wide tree-lined avenues, cafe culture and upmarket boutiques, Buenos Aires cannot fail to surprise and delight you.
Iguazu Falls may not be as well-known as Niagara or Victoria Falls, but it outshines them all in its sheer scale and majesty! Spanning the border between Argentina and Brazil, each side has its own particular attractions. Don't miss the chance to experience the falls from below on our exciting optional jetboat trip.
Machu Picchu is the most striking image of Peru. One of the greatest archaeological discoveries of modern times, it is located along a ridge with a breathtaking landscape of rich rainforest, precipitous gorges and lofty peaks, stretching as far as the eye can see. Nothing prepares you for the excitement as you approach the site, and then the sheer exhilaration when it comes into view. You ascend a slope and, suddenly, there it is - the classic view you've seen in countless photographs, but all the more magnificent when seen firsthand.
Argentina, the second-largest country in South America, is known for its gauchos (cowboys), its huge steaks, its excellent wines, and the invention of the tango. We'll sample all of these during our three-night stay in Buenos Aires - sophisticated, cosmopolitan and the most 'European' of the South American capitals. With its wide tree-lined avenues, cafe culture and upmarket boutiques, Buenos Aires cannot fail to surprise and delight you.
Iguazu Falls may not be as well-known as Niagara or Victoria Falls, but it outshines them all in its sheer scale and majesty! Spanning the border between Argentina and Brazil, each side has its own particular attractions. Don't miss the chance to experience the falls from below on our exciting optional jetboat trip.