Day 1:
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Overnight Flight
Welcome to a journey of a lifetime to Machu
Picchu and the Galapagos Islands, two of the
worlds "must see" destinations. Vast in
landscapes and diversity, you will experience
unchanged cultures and the breathtaking beauty
of the Andes and lush tropical landscapes of the
Galapagos, teeming with exotic wildlife
including fur seals, marine iguanas, giant
tortoises and blue-footed boobies. Depart on
your overnight flight to Peru this evening.
Day 2:
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Arrive Lima, Peru - Tour
Begins
Arrive this morning in the "City of Kings,"
Lima, Peru. A room has been reserved for you to
check in and relax upon arrival. This afternoon
enjoy a fascinating city tour. Journey through
the historical center of Lima, a UNESCO World
Heritage site. View the Plaza Mayor, Government
Center and discover the abundance of colonial
architecture scattered throughout the city. The
fashionable suburbs of San Isidro and Miraflores
will give you an inside look at the daily life
of the Limenos (people of Lima). Enjoy an
excellent introduction to Peruvian culture as
you dine this evening in one of Lima's finest
restaurants! Today dinner will be included.
Day 3:
Friday, April 10, 2009
Lima - Cuzco - Sacred
Valley of the Incas
Fly this morning into Cuzco, in the heart of the
Inca civilization. Board your coach to descend
through the Andes to the Sacred Valley of the
Incas. This majestic valley was the agricultural
center for the Incas, ranging from Pisac to the
citadel of Machu Picchu. Following the route of
the Urubamba River, the valley boasts some of
the most breathtaking scenery in all of Peru. A
special stop is made at Pablo Seminario Ceramic
Studio where you will learn about this
internationally-known artist's techniques and
designs inspired by ancient Peruvian cultures.
Settle in this evening at your hotel nestled in
the heart of the Sacred Valley. Today breakfast
and dinner will be included.
Day 4:
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Sacred Valley of the
Incas-Ollantaytambo-Sacred Valley of the Incas
Experience the lifestyle of the Andean people
today and delve into their culture as you travel
to a nearby Andean community. While here you get
a glimpse at the daily activities of the village
and have a chance to interact with the locals.
This afternoon, visit the spectacular
Ollantaytambo ruins, the only Inca settlement
that has been continually inhabited since its
inception. A unique terraced complex topped with
an amazing set of huge carved stone panels,
these ruins are a magnificent example of ancient
Inca architecture and heritage. Today breakfast
will be included.
Day 5:
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Sacred Valley of the Incas
- Ollantaytambo -Machu Picchu - Cuzco
Begin the day with a breathtaking train ride
through the Andes from Ollantaytambo to the
mysterious Machu Picchu! Hidden by mountains and
the semi-tropical jungle, the "Lost City of the
Incas" is deemed the most spectacular sight on
the continent of South America. Spend the day
with your tour guide exploring the ruins. Return
by train this evening to the majestic ancient
capital city of Cuzco. Today breakfast and lunch
will be included.
Day 6:
Monday, April 13, 2009
Cuzco
Explore this former capital of the Inca Empire
during a colonial city tour, experiencing the
architectural legacy visible in the Cathedral,
Santo Domingo and the Plaza des Armas. Discover
the important sacred Incan ruins of Sacsayhuaman
Fortress and Tambo Machay fountain. Next, meet
Peruvian children with a special visit to a
local orphanage sponsored by the Collette
Foundation. This evening, enjoy a dinner and
performance of traditional Andean folkloric
music and dance. Today breakfast and dinner will
be included.
Day 7: Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Cuzco - Lima - Quito,
Ecuador
Return to Lima this morning for your connecting
flight to Ecuador, a country of rich indigenous
cultures and spectacular natural scenery. Your
day ends in the capital city of Quito, a UNESCO
World Heritage site located just a few miles
south of the Equator. Today breakfast and dinner
will be included.
Day 8: Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Quito
Quito's mild climate and dramatic mountain
landscapes make it a pleasure to explore. Spend
your morning touring the charming colonial
center where you will see the Presidential
Palace and 17th century church of La Compania
with its breathtaking gilded altars. Next, visit
the Equatorial Line Monument and Museum where
you will cross from one hemisphere into another!
The remainder of the day is at leisure so you
can experience this historic city on your own.
Today breakfast will be included.
Day 9: Thursday, April 16, 2009
Quito - Baltra Island,
Galapagos - Embark Ship - Bartholome Island
Today begins your adventure in the Galapagos! A
morning flight takes you to beautiful Baltra
Island, the gateway to the Galapagos. Upon
arrival you will enjoy lunch aboard the m/v
Galapagos Legend followed by a welcome session
to introduce you to your home for the next 4
nights. This afternoon, disembark at Bartholome
Island, known for its spectacular volcanic
formations. Be sure to have your camera ready to
capture the amazing views of lava fields and
moon-like craters. At the summit of the island,
you'll be awed by the panoramic view of the
surrounding islands and the famous eroded tuff
cone of Pinnacle Rock. During your hike to the
summit, you can expect to see colonies of marine
iguanas, lava lizards, tequilla and various
cacti. You will also have the opportunity to
snorkel to see Galapagos penguins, sea turtles
and white tipped sharks--from a safe distance!
This is a day you will never forget. Today
breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included.
Day 10: Friday, April 17, 2009
Isabela Island (Urbina
Bay) - Fernandina Island (Espinosa Point)
Start the day with an exploration of Isabela
Island where you will visit the incredible
fossil beach and coral area. Depending on the
season of your visit, you may be able to observe
giant tortoises, land iguanas and flightless
cormorants along the beach. After the nature
walk, you will have time for some snorkeling in
the warm waters of Urbina Bay. Then it’s on to
wondrous Fernandina Island. It's here that you
will see oversized marine iguanas mingling with
sally lightfoot crabs, and sea lions sharing the
beach with adorable Galapagos penguins. In
addition to the diverse wildlife, you will also
lay eyes on such interesting sights as
brachycereus cacti, "pa-hoe-hoe" and "AA" lava
formations, and the vast mangrove beds that
extend into the sea. Today breakfast, lunch and
dinner will be included.
Day 11: Saturday, April 18, 2009
Santiago (Egas Port) -
Rábida (Jervis)
Another day…another incredible island. Today you
will explore Santiago, whose landscape is
characterized by tuff-stone layers and lava
flows. A birdwatcher's paradise, look out for
hunting herons, great blue herons, lava herons,
yellow crowned night herons and oyster catchers.
Other common sights include marine iguanas
grazing on algae beds, fur seals frolicking in
deep pools of cool water, and coral-colored
crabs teetering along the rocky shore. If you
choose to swim or snorkel, you might find
octopuses, sea horses or star fish. Your next
stop is the island of Rábida. The volcanic beach
is covered in dark red sand and lazy, lovable
sea lions. It's considered the geographic center
of Galapagos because it has the most diverse
volcanic rocks on the islands. During your
exploration you will hike to the scenic salt
water lagoon, frequented by graceful flamingos.
If you are visiting between July and September,
you are likely to see brown pelicans nesting in
the salty bushes. The eccentric boobies and nine
species of Darwin's finches can also be observed
here. This evening, cap off your day of
sightseeing with some stargazing from the deck.
With no lights around to spoil their splendor,
it really is quite a sight. Today breakfast,
lunch and dinner will be included.
Day 12: Sunday, April 19, 2009
Santa Cruz (Charles Darwin
Research Station)
Your first stop today is the Charles Darwin
Research Station, a world-class facility where
international scientists conduct biological
research and conservation projects. Here you can
admire the famous giant tortoises that are part
of the station’s breeding program. You'll also
have a chance to admire the prickly-pear cactus
forest and spot many species of land birds.
Later, trek through the highlands of Santa Cruz
to visit breathtaking Cerro Chato, where you'll
find more of the giant tortoises that gave the
islands their name. These gentle giants are sure
to impress you with their size and humble
beauty. Finally, you may choose to walk inside
the dormant lava tubes for an incredible glimpse
into the turbulent formation of these islands.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be
included.
Day 13: Monday, April 20, 2009
Santa Cruz (Bachas Beach)
- Disembark Ship - Baltra Island - Guayaquil
Today you will experience Bachas Beach, a
stunning white sand beach located on the north
side of Santa Cruz Island. Among the sand and
surf, you’re bound to find many of the sea
birds, marine iguanas and sea turtles that make
their home at Bachas Beach. You’ll also have the
opportunity to take a dip in the clear,
turquoise waters. Later, return to the Galapagos
Legend to check out and transfer back to
Baltra´s airport. Your afternoon flight brings
you to Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city. Today
breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 14: Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Guayaquil - Miami, Florida
Known as the "Pearl of the Pacific", Guayaquil
is a bustling coastal community. Your city tour
showcases the picturesque waterfront area of
Malecon 2000 and the 19th-century neighborhood
of Las Peńas, with its colorful, Spanish-style
wooden houses. From Santa Ana Hill, enjoy
magnificent views of the city below and the
chocolate-colored Guayas River. Later, visit a
historic theme park created to preserve the
culture and customs of the Ecuadorian coastal
region including wildlife, architecture and
traditions. After enjoying this last taste of
Ecuadorian culture, transfer to the airport for
your flight home to Miami. Today breakfast will
be included.
Day 15: Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Miami - Tour Concludes
Welcome home!
Taxes/fees to
be paid while traveling within Peru are
approximately $15 USD and approximately $35 USD
when leaving Peru, paid in USD or local
currency.
Taxes/fees to be paid in USD or local currencies
upon exiting Ecuador are approximately $40 USD.
The entrance fee to the Galapagos Islands is
approximately $100 USD per person, paid upon
arrival in the Galapagos in local currency or
USD.
Balcony and Single accommodations are limited
and will be confirmed upon request and
availability from the cruise line.
Rooms have been reserved at the Casa Andina
Private Collection Miraflores for use upon
arrival in Lima.
In general, hotels outside of Lima are small
with one or two levels and do not have elevators
which may require you to climb 10-15 steps to
get to/from the room.
Highest elevation is approximately 11,000 feet
(Cuzco, Peru).
The internal flights on this program are not
included in the land price of your vacation.
These flights need to be arranged and purchased
separately if you arrange your own air. Internal
flights are included with the air portion of
your vacation if you purchase air through
Collette Vacations.
While on the Galapagos cruise, the normal daily
schedule consists of a shore excursion
immediately following breakfast, return aboard
for lunch, and an afternoon shore excursion.
Transfers to/from the boat are by small boats
called "pangas". Landings are either "dry" or
"wet" and you might have to wade ashore in
shallow water. At all times you are accompanied
by your naturalist guide. Shore excursions
normally last 2 - 2.5 hours each. In some cases,
the terrain can be a little strenuous.
Passengers should consult their physician should
they have any concerns regarding their physical
condition.
Complete passport information is required 60
days prior to departure to confirm flight
arrangements to the Galapagos Islands.
Each client is responsible for proper
documentation and inoculations that may be
required and/or recommended to participate on
this tour. Please contact your local travel
clinic or personal physician for specific
details on the destinations you are traveling to
and from.
Many activities in this itinerary include
walking on uneven terrain, or require
significant walking at times. Some of the unique
experiences, such as visiting historical areas,
means accessing locations by foot because
motorcoaches are restricted. If you require a
walker or wheelchair, or have difficulty
walking, you may not be able to access some of
these areas and may want to consider an
alternate Collette vacation. Our travel
counselors can provide additional information or
assistance to help you determine the perfect
trip for you.
If you have not purchased air through Collette
and wish to purchase transfers, you must
transfer at our pre-scheduled times.
Smaller buses, which may not be lavatory
equipped, may be used on this program. In this
case, frequent stops are made during travel
periods.
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$7,899.00 Double
Occupancy |
$10,429.00 Single Occupancy |
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Round Trip Air Fare
From Chicago (ORD) is included in the
cost of the trip. Other cities are
available on request and adjustment will
be made.
First deposit of
$600 per person due upon reservation.
First come, first served. Final payment
due 1/8/2009.
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Payment of a per person waiver insurance fee
guarantees full refund on all
payments (including deposit), except the
waiver fee itself, made to
Collette
Vacations for tour service in case of
cancellation for any reason prior to the day of
departure. Air inclusive waiver insurance may be
purchased only if you purchase your airline
tickets from
Collette Vacations.
Once on tour, if
a passenger has to return home early due to
personal illness, illness or death of a member
of the immediate family, (physician’s statement
required), payment of the waiver fee to Collette
Vacations guarantees full refund for any unused
land services after departure from the tour.
Payment of the air inclusive waiver guarantees
your return transportation, with no additional
supplement, utilizing your original airline
tickets. In the event you have purchased
non-refundable airline tickets, the air waiver
does not apply.
The waiver
insurance fees are fully refundable
up to 01/08/2009. Waiver insurance is
non-transferable and valid for each applicant
only.
Waiver Insurance
must be purchased at time of deposit.
Collette
Vacations can assume no responsibility for and
cannot be held liable for any wrongful,
negligent or unauthorized acts or omissions of
any travel agent or travel agency other than
that of Collette Travel Service, Inc. itself,
and its own employees.
The waiver
insurance fees do not cover any single
supplement charges which arise from an
individual’s traveling companion electing to
cancel for any reason prior to departure. In
this case, the single supplement will be
deducted from the refund of the person who
cancels. Division of this charge between the two
passengers involved is solely their
responsibility. If insufficient funds are
deducted from the canceling client, the
traveling client will be charged the remaining
portion of the single supplement. The waiver
covers cancellation of your trip and does not
cover cancellation of the airline portion only..
The waiver insurance fees cover lost,
damaged or delayed baggage as well as medical
expenses, emergency medical attention and
worldwide travelers assistance. See your booking
agent for details.
Passports
are required
for this tour at your expense. Certain
countries require a minimum of 6 months passport
validity from date of return home. You are
strongly urged to contact the appropriate
consulate for details.
Responsibilities:
Neither Collette
Travel Services, Inc., its affiliated entities
and its and their employees, shareholders,
officers, directors, successors, agents, and
assigns (collectively "Collette"), own or
operate any person or entity which is to or does
provide goods or services for these trips.
Because neither maintains any control over the
personnel, equipment, or operations of these
suppliers, Collette assumes no responsibility
for and cannot be held liable for any personal
injury, death, property damage or other loss,
accident, delay, inconvenience, or irregularity
which may be occasioned by reason of (1) any
wrongful, negligent, willful or unauthorized
acts or omissions on the part of any of the
suppliers or other employees or agents, (2) any
defect in or failure of any vehicle, equipment,
or instrument owned, operated or otherwise used
by any of these suppliers, or (3) any wrongful,
willful or negligent act or omission on the part
of any other party not under the supervision and
control of Collette. Additionally,
responsibility is not accepted for losses or
expenses due to sickness, lack of appropriate
medical facilities or practitioners, weather,
strikes, theft or other criminal acts, war,
terrorism, computer problems, or other such
causes. All services and accommodations are
subject to the laws of the country in which they
are provided. Collette reserves the right to
make changes in the published itinerary
whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions
warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the
comfort, convenience, or safety of the tour.
They reserve the right to withdraw any tour
announced. Collette reserves the right to
decline to accept any person as a member of the
tour, or to require any participant to withdraw
from the tour at any time, when such action is
determined by the tour manager to be in the best
interests of the health, safety, and general
welfare of the tour group or of the individual
participant. Neither does Collette accept
liability for any carrier's cancellation penalty
incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable
airline or other ticket to the tour departure
city and return or otherwise. Baggage and
personal effects are the sole responsibility of
the owner at all times. Participants may be
photographed for the promotional purposes of
Collette.
Arbitration - I agree that any dispute
concerning, relating, or referring to this
contract, the brochure or any other literature
concerning my trip, or the trip itself, shall be
resolved exclusively by binding arbitration
according to the then existing rules of the
American Arbitration Association in Rhode
Island. Such proceedings will be governed by
substantive Rhode Island law.
Payment of the deposit to Collette constitutes
acceptance of these terms and conditions.
Cancellation
Charges for this tour:
Cancellation Charges for this tour:
Deposit becomes non-refundable at 90 days prior
to departure for a group. 60-16 days prior to
departure: cancellation fee of 20% of total
price. 15-1 days prior to departure:
cancellation fee of 40% of total price. Day of
departure and after: 100% of total price.
Cancellation protection is highly recommended
and must be purchased no later than 90 days
prior to departure. The Waiver Insurance does
not cover any single supplement charges which
arise from an individual’s traveling companion
electing to cancel for any reason prior to
departure. All waivers are refundable outside
90 days. Air rates are subject to change until
tour is paid in full. Cancellation charges also
apply to reservations made for “pre” and “post”
night accommodations. All other monies will be
returned or credited to your credit card in
approximately 14 days. Upon cancellation of
transportation or travel services where you, the
customer, are not at fault and have not canceled
in violation of the terms and conditions above,
you will be refunded 100%. Please see your
sales agent for more information, or review our
brochure for details.
Consumer
Protection Plans:
Collette Travel Service holds membership in the
following highly reputable industry
organizations: the United States Tour Operators
Association and the American Society of Travel
Agents. Each association operates a consumer
protection plan to cover deposits made by
travelers. Full details are available from the
organizations or Collette Travel Service.
Collette is pleased to give this additional
protection to our clients. Our
California Sellers of Travel registration number
is 2006766-20. Our State of Washington Unified
Business Number is 601220855. Our Nevada Sellers
of Travel registration number is 2003-0279.
For
More Information Contact:
Janice
Liescheidt
or Marci McCarrey
+1 (866) 592-0455
+1 (309) 834-3739
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Photos shown are reflective of
the area(s) visited but may not be included in
the actual tour itinerary.
