Andean Nations (23 Days)

A non-trekking adventure that combines the most important highlights of Peru and Bolivia. Having explored the old colonial centre of Lima we fly southward to the 'white' city of Arequipa, home to the famous 16th century Santa Catalina Convent and gateway to stunning Colca Canyon. Further into the mountains we explore the heart of the Inca Empire including Cusco, the Sacred Valley and high above the Urubamba River, the citadel of Machu Picchu. Continuing eastward we discover Lake Titicaca, including the floating islands of the Uros Indians and the ancient burial chambers at Sillustani. Before arriving in La Paz we have the opportunity to visit the ruins of ancient Tiahuanaco, once the centre of a powerful, self-sustaining empire. From La Paz our adventure crosses the 'Altiplano' (High Plains) to the spectacular salt plains of Uyuni and the small city of Potosi, a colonial treasure trove surrounded by dramatic mountains that once contained the largest known silver reserves in the world. Finally we arrive at Sucre, arguably the nation's finest city and one of the best preserved Spanish colonial settlements in South America.