Jetsettersblog

The South American economic miracle is impacting travel. Described as a “tale of two Americas where travel trends are concerned,” the latest ITB World Travel Trends sees the 2011 South American market as buoyant, whereas international arrivals in North America rose only slightly and U.S. travel abroad was weak.

Boosted by the strong economic performance of countries such as Brazil and Argentina, South America’s domestic and international travel markets registered high double-digit growth. In America, economic uncertainty dampened many U.S. citizens’ desire for travel. Trips to North America increased slightly over the last eight months, whereas international travel remained at last year’s levels. For next year, UNWTO forecasts a 4 to 5 percent increase in international tourists from the Americas, compared with 6.4 percent in 2010.

By contrast, many countries in South America continues to boom.

Even if growth rates have now slowed when compared with previous years, during the past eight months trips abroad by South Americans increased by 15 percent. Brazilians were particularly keen to travel. With the help of a robust domestic economy and strong currency they spent 45 percent more on trips abroad than in 2010. Relatively young, well educated and wealthy travelers are characteristic of South America’s three burgeoning markets, those of Brazil, Argentina and Mexico.

The arrival of more low-cost airlines in South America will further increase the number of long-haul trips. Many holidaymakers who travel abroad have also put South America at the top of their wish list. International arrivals increased by 13 percent, while trips to the Caribbean and Central America rose by a lowly 4 percent each.

The difficult economic times currently experienced by many Americans is also reflected in how they take holidays. The focus is increasingly on price awareness and travel bargains. “Staycationers” either remain at home altogether or go on holiday locally.

Only 23 percent of U.S. citizens intend to take more trips abroad next year, 28 percent aim to take less, while 23 percent have no plans at all to travel abroad next year.

The U.S. inbound market registered only slight growth.

During the last eight months, the number of international arrivals rose by only 3 percent, compared with 7 percent in 2010.

The findings are based on the assessments of 50 tourism experts from 30 countries, on a special IPK International trend analysis undertaken in leading source markets, and on core data supplied by the World Travel Monitor, recognized as the largest ongoing survey of global travel trends in some 60 source countries. The findings reflect trends which emerged during the first eight months of 2011.

Collette Vacations is introducing its newest South America tour, “Wonders of South America,” which is created in a modular or building-block form that allows clients to choose among different itinerary components.

The new product offers the option of purchasing a Brazilian Amazon pre-extension and/or Machu Picchu and Peru post-extension.

In addition, the 11-day tour may be extended to 16 days with the addition of Chile, featuring a Lake Crossing of the Andes, Chilean Wine Country and the sights of Santiago, Chile’s capital city. With this product, Collette is introducing a modular concept of a tour in which clients are offered a shorter base tour with many options, Collette has made it easy for travel agents to custom tailor an unforgettable and comprehensive South American vacation for their clients based on budget and desired length of vacation stay.

“We created this new tour to be customizable and to uncover the many marvels of South America – its beauty, culture, history, cuisine, entertainment, and geography,” said Allison Flint, Collette’s product manager. “We’ve included the most sought-after attractions like a visit to Iguazu Falls and Rio’s Christ the Redeemer statue with culinary experiences like learning how to craft the famous caipriniha cocktail and indulging in a Brazilian-style barbeque at a renowned ‘Churrascaria’ restaurant.”

In addition to the experience of viewing Iguazu Falls’ “Devil’s Throat” from a platform perch, other tour highlights include a tango lesson in Buenos Aires; a train ride to the top of Rio’s Corcovado Mountain to see the statue of Christ the Redeemer, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World; and a tour of Mendoza, the lovely Argentinean city within the shadows of the Andes Mountains and the ideal base for exploring the Caminos del Vino wine route. Guests also experience Argentina’s most famous wine, Malbec, during a gourmet wine pairing lunch and visits to bodegas in Mendoza.

The new program is available to book now with departures beginning in May 2012. The starting at price for the 11-day Wonders of South America tour is $2,599 per person double, land only. For more information and details of the pre- and post-extension options and alternate Chile itinerary, call 800-340-5158.

For information, call 800-611-3361 or visit www.collettevacations.com

Active travel specialist Austin-Lehman Adventures is offering three new itineraries for 2012 for exploring both sides of the Andes in Argentina, Chile and Patagonia.

Argentina and Chile-Wine Country is a nine-day multi-sport (trekking, horseback riding, cycling) program priced at $5,098 per person double, beginning in Mendoza and ending in Santiago.

The 2012 tour dates are Feb. 13-21, March 5-13 and Dec.24-Jan. 1, 2013.

The itinerary encompasses the Uco Valley of Argentina and Mendoza´s wine regions (Malbecs and Torrontés) in a dry desert at the foothills of the Andes as well as Chile’s vines (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Carmenere) that grow in the Colchagua Valley, a lusher colonial-flavored landscape near the Pacific.

The scenic drive across the Andes takes guests along the base of Mt. Aconcagua (22,841-foot elevation), the highest peak of the Americas and anywhere outside of the Himalayas.

Dan Austin, ALA’s founder and owner, said the trips are enhanced by “engaging guests on bike, horseback and on foot in the living cultural experiences available in these two extraordinary countries. Our choices for lodging are boutique hotels at the vineyards, haciendas and estancias (authentic working cattle ranches) that become true highlights of the trip.”

Also new for 2012 is Argentina and Chile-Patagonia, a 10-day, moderately paced mountaineering adventure with hiking trips and horseback tours priced at $5,498 per person double, that begins and ends in El Calafate (South Patagonia) for transfers to Buenos Aires and covers much of the territory of Bruce Chatwin’s In Patagonia.

The 2011-2012 tour dates are Dec. 19-28, Feb. 20-29, March 12-21 and Dec. 31-Jan. 9.

Highlights include (in Argentina) trekking to the best views of the Southern Face of Cerro Torre, its lake and hanging glaciers, and the Egger and Standhard spires plus views of the Fitz Roy massif, Mt. Saint Exupery, and Poincenot peaks. There’s also a glaciologist-led ice hike over the Perito Moreno Glacier to observe its surreal formations of ice peaks and blue crevasses.

A third new tour is Argentina and Chile-Salta to Atacama, a 10-day cycling, horseback and hiking adventure priced at $5,298 per person double, that begins in the northwest Argentine city of Salta and ends at the Atacama town of Calama with air transfers to Santiago, Chile.

The 2012 departures are offered year-round.

Highlights include cycling Los Cardones National Park, wine tasting at local bodegas, museum visits, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Humahuaca Canyon and three full days exploring Chile’s Atacama, the driest desert in the world.

For more information, call 800-575-1540 or visit www.austinlehman.com.

2012 vacations enhance personal touch, tours and value; Save $300 for a limited time–

Brendan Vacations, the Ireland Specialist, is also a leader in providing unique and memorable guided vacations to Latin America. Brendan is now pleased to announce their 2012-13 South & Central America 2012-13 Brochure highlighting the region’s vibrant culture and vast natural and historical treasures. Brendan knows it’s all about you, the customer– everyone has different travel needs and expectations.

By “taking you personally,” Brendan ensures its highly trained, hands-on team focuses on old fashioned service, taking care of each and every traveler, one by one, detail by detail. With such wonderful and exotic locations, three exciting new itineraries, and four new vacation styles, award-winning Brendan makes “taking you personally” more than just a motto–this is sure to be your most memorable vacation yet!

“We have included many new local tours in our Central and South American Guided Vacations program,” says Nico Zenner, President of Brendan Vacations. “Doing so adds tremendous value and a personal touch to an already great program.

Our guests will enjoy lasting memories and will experience a personal connection to local culture and people. We crafted activities and tours with the assistance and guidance of regional experts so that authenticity is not only assured but is also exciting. “

On the new exciting 11-day Family Vacation, Conquistadors, Sacred Valleys and Inca Mysteries, see the vibrant cultures and unique traditions that make up this fascinating region. You’ll have the chance to touch llamas, alpacas and vicunas at a Sacred Valley ranch.

Priced from $2595 land & intra-tour air, based on double occupancy.

On the new 12 day discovery tour Argentina and Across the Andes to Chile—12 days, you’ll visit Buenos Aires and other local sites and enjoy the inspiring journey across the Andes. With its vast horizons, scenic vistas and expansive lakes, you’ll be in awe at this beautiful part of the world. Priced from $3775 land & intra-tour air, based on double occupancy.

The new relaxed-paced 11-day Leisurely Vacation Glimpse of South America is perfect for anyone looking for an inside view of exotic Brazil and Argentina. Be amazed by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio, be inspired by the stunning Iguassu Falls, and have plenty of time to absorb the vibrant culture of Brazil with days off for individual exploration. Priced from $2895 land & intra-tour air.

Exhilarating and exotic destinations like Costa Rica, Peru, Argentina, Chile and Brazil await your discovery—and for a limited time, save up to $300* on all Guided Vacations booked from the new brochure!

Some new features in our 2012/2013 brochure include:

3 New Itineraries:
- Conquistadors, Sacred Valleys and Inca Mysteries
- Argentina and Across the Andes to Chile
- Best of South America
New Vacation Styles:
- Discovery Vacations
- Regional Vacations
- Leisurely Vacations
- Guided Family Vacations

You’re Personally Invited: Guests will be provided genuine local experiences as they dine in family homes, lend a helping hand on a farm, or learn about Peruvian textiles, for example.

Local Experts: The services of local experts ranging from museum curators to anthropologists advise on every sightseeing, natural and culturally relevant stop on every tour.

Audio Headsets: NEW for 2012 these state-of-the-art audio devices are now included on ALL South America itineraries.

To book, contact your local travel agent, call 800 421 8446 or go to www.brendanvacations.com  for a full listing of Guided Vacation itineraries and to take advantage of this limited time savings.

About Brendan Vacations

Brendan Vacations, the Ireland Specialists, is a leading US tour operator offering a wide selection of Guided, Customized, Locally Hosted and Group travel options.

Established in 1969, and true to its Irish roots and traditions, the company’s portfolio now includes over 800 packages and 10,000 hotels in Ireland, the UK, Europe, Egypt, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, Mexico, South and Central America. With high quality products, friendly service and competitive pricing, Brendan Vacations believes in “Taking You Personally” and offers memorable experiences for every client.

Headquartered in Los Angeles, Brendan Vacations is a respected brand of The Travel Corporation and employs over 100 travel professionals.

A satellite office in Ireland contracts product and manages inbound traffic for cruise lines, incentive houses, meeting planners and tour operators.

Brendan Vacations is a founding member of USTOA and other professional affiliations include ASTA, PATA, OSSN and NTA. CST#2084503-20.

Terms and Conditions

*Save $300 per couple ($150 per person) on 2012-13 land only Latin America vacations (promo code: BVLATIN150) booked and paid in full by October 31, 2011. Not combinable with other promotions and Mexico Guided Vacations. Combinable with brochure discounts, show coupons and travel agent specific promotions. Valid for groups based on availability and name/full payment by October 31, 2011. Promotion can be booked online. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Other conditions may apply. For full terms and conditions, please visit www.BrendanVacations.com.

Goway Travel is offering a range of travel products to Bolivia. “Bolivia, landlocked at the heart of Andean Latin America, remains something of a well-kept secret. Today, those who venture beyond the very popular neighbor of Peru — easily connected by our Puno to La Paz connector — will find a country offering an authentic take on Latin American culture,” said Don Forster, product manager for Goway’s Latin America division.

“The country’s innate charm lies in its staggering breadth of contrasts — the clash of indigenous and European culture, the sweep of landscape from the Amazon jungle to high-altitude mountains, the largest salt lake in the world and the diversity of activities from adrenaline sports to ancient monuments,” said Forster. “Add to this the amazing journey from the high Altiplano down the high desert in Chile on our Salt Lakes of Bolivia connector — one of my favorite journeys in the world — and Bolivia has everything a traveler needs. With around two thirds of the population being of indigenous origin, the authentic culture has not been watered down. Native religions, dialects, clothes, music and medicines all form part of the daily life on the street.”

Goway’s product offers for Bolivia range from Andean Classic, a 14-day combination of Peru and Bolivia; the 12-day Best of Bolivia; six-day Escape To Titicaca and Uyuni, visiting the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca; plus an eight-day nature cross-section adventure From The Andes To The Amazon.

The 2011-12 Latin America travel planner features some of these programs as well as many other options in to Central and South America. Goway has been offering travel to Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America and island destinations since 1970. It has offices in Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles and Sydney, Australia. To order your copy of the Latin America Travel Planner, call 888-469-2955, email info@goway.com  or visit www.Goway.com

GOGO Vacations has added South America to its product range, including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and Peru hotel offers, sightseeing and escorted tours. The Worldwide Collection product line already consisting of Australia, South Pacific, Thailand, China, Dubai and Maldives is available through the Worldwide Collection Team at 888-565-7348. As part of GOGO’s South America Launch, if you book by March 31 for travel March 1 to Dec. 18, you can save up to 35 percent and receive free nights, guaranteed room upgrades, daily breakfast and more. For more information, including a complete list of GOGO’s South America hotels, offers and brochure, visit www.gogoworldwidevacations.com

According to Inca mythology, the world was created from Lake Titicaca. This Inca sacred place is also the highest navigable lake in the world (3800 m above the sea level) and contains numerous islands whose inhabitants continue to live as their ancestors did. Leaving from Puno, the folklore capital of Peru, a tour through Lake Titicaca and its islands guarantees a fascinating experience, not to be missed for any visitor to Peru.

Promperu’s coordinator for Asia Pacific, Rosana Guinea, says that many travellers to Peru consider Lake Titicaca a more magical experience than Machu Picchu.

“There is a broad offer of tours and mid-range accommodation around Titicaca, with an increasing number of luxury hotels being developed in the last few years”, Rosana said.

Located between Bolivia and Peru, the sacred lake of the Incas showcases a magnificent and peaceful landscape, only interrupted by tiny little islands where a limited number of visitors can stay and taste the true ancient Inca culture.

The best way to reach Lake Titicaca is travelling to Puno (388 km from Cusco) by train, bus or air. The city of Puno lies on the shores of the lake and it’s worth a stopover.

It was the territory of the Tiahuanacos (800- 1200 A.D.), the highest cultural expression of the Aymara people that established themselves in what is today Peru and Bolivia.

The Incas took over these lands in the fifteenth century, and the Spanish left an important Colonial legacy throughout the entire area.

Puno is also known as the folklore capital of Peru, with the internationally known Virgen de la Candelaria Festival held during the first week of February.

More than 200 bands follow the colourful parade that takes place on the central day of this Festival.

A tour through Lake Titicaca should always include a visit to Uros, Amantini and Taquille Islands.

The man-made floating Islands of Uros provide a good impression of how the Ayamra-speaking locals have lived for centuries.

The floating islands have been made entirely from totora reeds growing from the lake, and locals still navigate in their traditional totora boats.

Continuing to Amantini Island, travellers will have the opportunity to experience traditional culture staying overnight with the locals, and will be able to see the snow-capped Cordillera Real Mountains in Bolivia overlooking the lake.

Finally, tourism in Taquille Island is strictly controlled by the locals, who will provide advice on where to eat or sleep at a really good price (around $ 3 per night).

For more information on Peru, please visit

www.peru.info

Abercrombie & Kent has announced the release of the 2011 Latin America & Antarctica portfolio. The brochure provides personally customised bespoke programmes throughout Latin America and unique expeditionary cruising in Antarctica.

Latin America is a region of dramatic contrasts overrun with natural wonders, a colourful and varied heritage and warm, passionate people at every turn. A decade spent refining how to deliver an unequalled holiday experience ensures A&K delivers the very best there is.

Sujata Raman, Abercrombie & Kent Managing Director says, “Despite a year of challenges including natural disasters within the region and financial trials, Latin America is back and firing on all cylinders. There’s a destination to suit all interests and at any time of the year.”

Acknowledging the centenary of the rediscovery of Machu Picchu by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 2011, Abercrombie & Kent Managing Director Sujata Raman says, “Because of this milestone, we anticipate heightened interest in travel to Peru. Machu Picchu is also one of the three Latin American ‘New’ wonders of the world and should be at the top of everyone’s bucket list. When the artefacts excavated from the site are returned to Cusco our guests will be there to see them.”

Hotels & Cruises

The MV Aria joins classy sister ship, MV Aqua, on the Peruvian Amazon in April 2011. The intimate vessel plays host to just 32 guests catered for in a style not readily anticipated in the depths of the jungle. These luxury vessels deliver experiences beyond the ordinary and to that end employ only the most adept guides from the region to share the unique wildlife experiences. Food and wine are also key elements of the journey and one of Peru’s leading chefs designs all the menus with strong local influences using Amazonian produce. The cruises operate for 3, 4 and 7 nights year-round beginning or ending in Iquitos. A 4-day cruise onboard MV Aqua starts at US$2400.

On the desert coast of Peru, Starwood’s Luxury Collection has opened the 120 room Hotel Paracas. A beachfront location makes this the perfect base for explorations in the area to the Ballestas Islands marine reserve, best done by yacht, and the mysterious Nazca Lines, visible only from the air. A&K’s 4 day Paracas Extension priced from $2030 includes 3 nights at Hotel Paracas.

There’s a new way to explore the Galapagos Islands – from the comfort of a safari tent! Galapagos Safari Camp is the first eco-luxury camp in Ecuador and offers a unique land-based alternative to the traditional cruise product. Located on a farm in the highlands there’s much to do from walking, bird watching and cycling to horse riding, kayaking, diving and snorkelling. It’s family friendly with home-style comforts. A&K’s 4 day Galapagos Safari Camp Extension priced from $2635 includes 3 nights at Galapagos Safari Camp.

The latest luxe lodging in the Chilean capital, W Santiago, is the epitome of style and sophistication. The signature ‘W’ bed is heaven, the rooms are spacious and some of the city’s finest restaurants are on site. A&K’s 10 day Inside Chile priced from $9895 includes 2 nights at the W Santiago.

On the shores of one of Chile’s most scenic lakes sits Hotel Cumbres Patagonicas. Its 92 rooms offer breathtaking views, some with private terrace, and there’s a spa and pool. A&K’s 12 day Best of Chile & Argentina priced from $9635 includes 2 nights at Hotel Cumbres Patagonicas.

More boutique pousada than luxury hotel, Villa Bahia in Brazil’s Salvador is set right in the heart of Pelourinho, the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. Two adjoining colonial mansions have been thoughtfully renovated and now offer 17 bright and colourful rooms. A&K’s 9 day Best of Brazil priced from $6220 includes 3 nights at Villa Bahia.

Sunseekers and partygoers alike will love A&K’s new offering in Buzios. Insolito Buzios is a chic and stylish boutique hotel with glorious views over the peninsula. There are two swimming pools, boats and bicycles to keep guests active and for indulgence an on-site wellness centre. A 4-day jaunt here is priced from $1755.

More remote and intimate, Ponta dos Ganchos on Brazil’s south coast is perfect for honeymooners. 25 bungalows have private decks and hammocks to while away the hours plus there’s tennis, nature trails and diving for the more active. A 4-day stay here is priced from $1845.

Consistently rated as having some of the best beaches in the world, Mexico’s Riviera Maya is home to Maroma Resort & Spa. Also highly acclaimed this property has a glorious setting between beach and jungle with fresh white interiors and local artworks scattered throughout. A&K’s 4 day Riviera Maya Extension priced from $1185 includes 3 nights at Maroma Resort & Spa.

Private Journeys

Named on the latest U.N. List of Intangible Cultural Heritage thanks to its famous culinary customs, Mexico is hot and happening right now and it has been rated in A&K’s Top 10 destinations for 2011. There are colonial attractions aplenty; ancient archaeological sites, galleries and craft studios, a rich gastronomy, tropical jungle and golden beaches. A&K’s 13 day Mexico Discovered priced from $9715 includes a cross-section of the country’s major attractions staying in stylish lodgings throughout.

Neighbouring countries, Peru and Ecuador make the perfect combination for the luxury traveller in South America. Each blessed with outstanding natural wonders they also have cultural attractions aplenty, exquisite hotels and A&K offices on the ground to ensure smooth sailing. Highlights include the many delights of Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, a Galapagos cruise, Quito and the rural attractions of Otavalo. A&K’s 17 day Best of Peru & Ecuador is priced from $16,340.

Down south Chile and Argentina are a logical pairing offering sophisticated cities, impressive gastronomic credentials, breathtaking scenery and jaw-dropping natural wonders. The countries are linked with a specially tailored Lake Crossing with VIP catamaran sailing and the finest hotels are included. Highlights include Santiago and its wine regions with an exclusive market visit and cooking demonstration, the Lake District, Bariloche, Buenos Aires with an urban archaeological experience and Iguazu Falls. A&K’s 12 day Best of Chile & Argentina is priced from $9635.

Contrasting attractions in Chile are the appeal of A&K’s 4 day Vineyards & Valparaiso priced from $2440. It showcases the Casablanca Valley wine growing district and the charming port city of Valparaiso. There are three delightful boutique hotels featured including The Aubrey which nestles in magnificent Art Deco splendour in Santiago’s bohemian Bellavista and is one of only a handful of boutique hotels to arrive in the Chilean capital.

Wine enthusiasts will relish A&K’s Mendoza Extension priced from $3965 which commences with a spectacular all day drive across the Andes from Santiago into Argentina’s famous wine-growing region. Guests bed down at the sophisticated Cavas Wine Lodge and there are tastings at some of the finest wineries around and some really special dining experiences.

Guests staying in Rio seeking a contrasting experience to the norm will be intrigued by the city’s favelas (slum district) on a tour revealing the other side of life as a Carioca. It is colourful and absorbing and a fascinating insight into the commercial and personal lives of the slum dwellers. A&K’s 9 day Best of Brazil includes the opportunity to visit the favelas, the iconic Statue of Christ the Redeemer, enjoy dinner with a local Carioca artist, and visit beaches in Salvador and the spectacular waterfalls in Iguassu National Park and Brazilian & Argentine Falls. The price commences at $6220.

Southern Explorations
CONTACT: Justin Laycob
TEL: 877-784-5400
E-MAIL: justin@southernexplorations.com
WEB: www.southernexplorations.com
SEATTLE, Wash.—South America is a land of endless fascination and exquisite beauty, and travel specialists predict that travelers will continue to be captivated by South American destinations in 2011. Southern Explorations, a company that specializes in unforgettable adventures to South America says there are some major South American travel trends to look out for this year:

Argentina is ‘Caliente’
According to Justin Laycob, owner of Southern Explorations, bookings for Argentina tours have almost doubled since the previous year. This trend can be attributed to the fact that Argentina is closer to the U.S (with no time changes) and it’s a great value for people who want a European feel without a European price tag. Also, Argentina has some extremely popular wines and the possibilities for outdoor adventure activities like world-class hiking, glacier exploration, and exploring Argentina’s stunning lakes and landscapes are endless.

“Argentina has really been surprising our guests. They have been blown away by the astounding diversity of activities that are available in the country, from the culinary delights to outdoor adventures and the fascinating cultures,” says Laycob. “Argentina is a large location geographically, but our guests have still been packing in a lot activities within a short time. All of them have been pleasantly surprised at how smoothly and quickly they have been able to visit so many areas of Argentina.”

Exploring the Galapagos…by Land
Galapagos land-based tours are becoming increasingly popular with travelers right now. Travelers just don’t want to be stuck on a boat anymore; they want to be on foot, exploring this famous destination in a more “front row seat” kind of way. Also, tourism seems to be transforming the job market in the local communities there, especially with the emergence of the land-based tours because travelers are on land for longer periods of time. This is quite different from the hop-on and off tourists that previously visited for brief periods of time. The land-based Galapagos tours are also attractive to active travelers who want to stretch their legs and get a good workout while exploring a once in a lifetime destination.

Venturing Outdoors in Brazil
Brazil has been in the world spotlight for quite a while. It’s always been known for exciting Carnival, the economy is booming, and with the World Cup in 2014 and the Olympics taking place in 2016, the country is gearing up for a boost in tourism. But what makes Brazil even more enticing is the potential for outdoor adventure travel. Adventure travelers in Brazil have plentiful choices for unique itineraries like combining the classic sights and sounds of Rio with adventures like an easy climb up to famous Corcavado Mountain coupled with panoramic sightseeing during a ride down the mountain’s gondola. Also, surfing, yoga, mountain biking and hiking in the Southern Brazil’s “New Rio” –Florianopolis—would be a dream trip for adventure vacationers. Of course, enjoying the distinct culinary delights in Brazil along with the cultures in the various regions add plenty of appeal to Brazil as an adventure vacation destination.

Southern Explorations offers dozens of different ways to explore the mountains, islands, jungles and beaches of Argentina, Brazil, the Galapagos Islands, and other destinations in South America. To find out more, visit www.southernexplorations.com

Country Walkers is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Hiram Bingham’s discovery of Machu Picchu by offering a guided program called “Peru: Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley.”

Rather than stroll through a sea of tourists, Country Walkers’ guests enjoy spirited exploration en route to the Inca stronghold the Spanish Conquistadors never found, with insider access provided by local guides well versed in the culture of the Andes.

Special events on 2011 departures include a private presentation by Alfredo Mormontoy, the resident archeologist of Machu Picchu, and the opportunity to join in a sacred Inca ritual offering with a local Shaman.

The tour includes an exploration of Cusco, one of the world’s highest cities, where bustling cobblestone streets lead past Spanish colonial and ancient Inca architecture, historic sites, and Quechua-speaking locals.

Participants will visit the Casa Concha museum, with the newly returned artifacts on display in honor of the Machu Picchu anniversary; delve into the sacred Urubamba Valley with visits to Inca burial sites, terraced hillsides and age-old ruins; explore Moray, a scene of agricultural experimentation and the giant stones of Ollantaytambo, one of the few places the Inca actually turned back the conquistadors; and board the train at Ollantaytambo station for a ride through the mountains and cloudforests before joining the ancient Inca Trail. Hiking onward, the trail leads to the stairs to Intipunku, or the Gate of the Sun, for a memorable entrance into Machu Picchu like the ancient Incans themselves.

Accommodations are in the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel located along a rushing river and La Posada Del Inca, an impeccably restored hacienda located at the base of the Andes. Country Walkers’ “Peru: Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley” costs $3,898 per person, with a single supplement of $750 per person. There are seven departures scheduled for 2011 — May 13, June 3, July 22, Sept. 2, Nov. 4, Nov. 18 and Dec. 23.

For more information, visit www.countrywalkers.com