<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> <rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" ><channel><title></title> <atom:link href="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /><link>http://absolutelatinamerica.com</link> <description>Tailor made and packages with Absolute Latin America travel specialist!</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 21 Feb 2013 12:08:37 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en</language> <sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency> <generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1</generator> <item><title>Argentina Highlights</title><link>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/argentina-highlights/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=argentina-highlights</link> <comments>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/argentina-highlights/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Feb 2013 12:08:37 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>admin</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Argentina]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Wildlife]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Argentina tours]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://absolutelatinamerica.com/?p=231</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="224" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/ARGENTINA-HIGHLIGHTS-300x224.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="ARGENTINA HIGHLIGHTS" title="ARGENTINA HIGHLIGHTS" /></p>&#160; This is a fantastic tour across Argentina. Upon arriving in Argentina, visitors receive a grand welcome in the bustling city of Buenos Aires. From the capital, guests travel north and view the Iguazu Falls, a wonder of nature created by ancient rivers. Continuing the tour past lush savannahs and grassland, visitors find themselves in Ushuaia, [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="224" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/ARGENTINA-HIGHLIGHTS-300x224.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="ARGENTINA HIGHLIGHTS" title="ARGENTINA HIGHLIGHTS" /></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This is a fantastic tour across Argentina. Upon arriving in Argentina, visitors receive a grand welcome in the bustling city of Buenos Aires. From the capital, guests travel north and view the Iguazu Falls, a wonder of nature created by ancient rivers. Continuing the tour past lush savannahs and grassland, visitors find themselves in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park showcases majestic glaciers and native wildlife. Exploration of Beagle Channel offers views of penguins and sea lions in their natural habitat. Travelers to Argentina participate in the contrasts that define the country and receive an unequalled traveling experience.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>BUENOS AIRES &#8211; IGUAZU FALLS &#8211; USHUAIA</strong></p><p style="text-align: left;"><strong><br /> </strong></p><p><div class="jwts_tabber" id="jwts_tab"><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Map"><h2><a href="#Map" name="advtab">Map</a></h2></p><p><object width="530" height="400" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="AllowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="flashVars" value="tripId=631000007402100394C99CF3B7A3879F&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/631000007402100394C99CF3B7A3879F?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" /><param name="src" value="http://www.tripline.net/api/tripviewer.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="tripId=631000007402100394C99CF3B7A3879F&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/631000007402100394C99CF3B7A3879F?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><embed width="530" height="400" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.tripline.net/api/tripviewer.swf" AllowScriptAccess="always" allowFullScreen="true" flashVars="tripId=631000007402100394C99CF3B7A3879F&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/631000007402100394C99CF3B7A3879F?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" flashvars="tripId=631000007402100394C99CF3B7A3879F&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/631000007402100394C99CF3B7A3879F?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" /></object></p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Full Itinerary"><h2><a href="#Full+Itinerary">Full Itinerary</a></h2></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 1: Arrival in Buenos Aires.</strong></p><p>Arrive in Buenos Aires and meet your private transfer from the international airport to the hotel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p> <strong>Day 2: Half-day Cultural City Tour in Buenos Aires.</strong></p><p>Buenos Aires is undoubtedly the Latin American city that best resembles the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the big European capitals. But beyond this Buenos Aires there is another, featuring the colored houses of La Boca and the popular Tango that lives in the San Telmo streets. This is the mixture that makes Buenos Aires an original and irresistible metropolis. This tour shows the city’s highlights looking through its and culture: the historic development, the immigration process, the cultural topics (football, Tango music), the architectural heritage and the era of Peron. Visit downtown, La Boca, Monserrat, San Telmo, Puerto Madero, Palermo and Recoleta.<strong> (B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 3: Half-day excursion to Tigre.</strong></p><p>Half day tour which includes a ride on the Coastal Train from the city to the delta; sailing through the Tigre Delta past densely forested islands, yacht clubs and weekend houses in Paraná river Delta. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>  </p><p><strong>Day 4: Free day in Buenos Aires.</strong></p><p>Tango show and dinner. In the evening you will be transferred to the Esquina Carlos Gardel Dinner and Tango show. During the performance, you will experience the sensual dance of Tango, which reveals the spirit of Buenos Aires’ beginnings. International cuisine, regional dishes, desserts and a broad selection of Argentine wines will accompany the Tango show. <strong>(B, D)</strong></p><p>  </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 5: Fly to Puerto Iguazu.</strong></p><p>Private transfer from the hotel to the airport for you flight to Puerto Iguazu. Upon arrival in Puerto Iguazú, a private transfer with an English-speaking guide will be waiting for you at the local airport, and on the way to the hotel you will receive an introduction to the town. The rest of this day is at leisure to explore the area on your own.<strong> (B)</strong></p><p>  </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 6: Full-day tour of the Argentinean side of the falls.</strong></p><p>In the morning after breakfast, take a private full day excursion to the Argentine side of the waterfalls. From your hotel we transfer you to the Visitor Centre inside Iguazú National Park. Throughout the day you will explore the Upper Circuit, Lower Circuit, and Devil´s Throat paths. Along the way you will be amazed by the stunning views of the falls and the constant roar of billions of liters of plummeting water. Expect to get wet from spray, which shoots dozens of meters up into the air. Finally, the day ends back at the hotel, where you stay overnight. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>  </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 7: Half-day tour of the Brazilian side of the Falls.</strong></p><p>Fly to Buenos Aires. This morning you will be transferred to the Brazilian side of the falls for your morning group tour. From the Brazilian National Park you have a panoramic view of the falls rather than the up-close-and-personal nature of the Argentine side. It&#8217;s a kilometer of easy walking that takes about an hour finishing opposite the Devil&#8217;s Throat. After visiting the falls, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Buenos Aires.<strong> (B)</strong></p><p>  </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 8: Fly to Ushuaia.</strong></p><p>Today you will fly to the southernmost city on earth, Ushuaia in Patagonia. This stunning part of the world is a must-see Patagonia travel stop. Overnight in Ushuaia. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 9: Beagle Channel Excursion.</strong></p><p>This morning, enjoy a full day group excursion with English-speaking guide across the green central valley of Tierra del Fuego to reach Harberton Farm, a private ranch built by the first British missionaries. Continue by zodiac launch through the Beagle channel to Gable Island, part of the Harberton estate. You enjoy a picnic lunch in an old, rustic shelter before embarking on a 3 hour hike around the island. Our path leads to many amazing vantage points overlooking the Beagle Channel. Returning to the zodiac, we sail on to the penguin rookery on Martillo Island. The location of the island makes it a birdwatcher&#8217;s paradise; you can watch the penguins, petrels, skuas, cormorants, seagulls and albatross. In the afternoon, depart for Harberton and begin the return trip to Ushuaia. <strong>(B, L)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>  </p><p><strong>Day 10: Tierra del Fuego National Park.</strong></p><p>Today, take a full day group excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park, with English-speaking guide, entrance fee and lunch included. Located north of Ushuaia, this was the first Argentinean coastal National Park. The system of gentle trails makes this an ideal place to spend a relaxing day exploring Patagonia. You wander along the coastal path, undoubtedly the most beautiful in the park. The 3:30 hour hike takes you through forests of high and low deciduous beech, evergreen beech, winter bark, fire brush, and more. You finish the walk at Lake Roca, in time for lunch. After eating, climb into inflatable canoes and begin the easy downstream paddle to the Ovando River. The crystal-clear water runs into Laguna Verde, one of the most picturesque spots in the park with its vivid green waters. Our pick-up point is Lapataia Bay, where you may see petrels, albatross, steamer ducks, and on occasion, penguins. Afterwards, return to the city of Ushuaia. <strong>(B, L)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p> <strong>Day 11: Fly to Buenos Aires.</strong></p><p>Today you will fly to Buenos Aires. After your arrival in Buenos Aires private transfer from Aeroparque to Ezeiza airport to meet your international connections. <strong>(B)</strong></p> <address> </address><address><strong>Contact us if you would like to extend your stay or combine with other tour or destination in Latin America.</strong><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Price Conditions"><h2><a href="#Price+Conditions">Price Conditions</a></h2></address><p>&nbsp;</p><p>  </p><p>Price per person in US dollars based on double occupancy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>=&gt; US$ 2,040 per person</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Included</strong></p><p>· 10 nights’ accommodation with breakfast</p><p>· Meals as per itinerary (<strong>B</strong> &#8211; breakfast, <strong>L </strong>- lunch, <strong>D</strong> &#8211; dinner)</p><p>· Dinner and Tango show with transfers</p><p>· All transfers and Group excursions</p><p>· English speaking guide</p><p>· Entrances fees</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Not included</strong></p><p>· Domestic/International flights and taxes</p><p>· Tips for local guides &amp; drivers</p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Contact Us"><h2><a href="#Contact+Us">Contact Us</a></h2></p><p>[contact-form-7]<div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div></div><div class="jwts_clr">&nbsp;</div></p><p>&nbsp;</p><div id="AuGfyYLklt" style="position: absolute; top: -1029px; left: -1443px; width: 346px;"><a href="http://viagracomprar24.com/">viagra en espana</a></div>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/argentina-highlights/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Andean Triangle</title><link>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/andean-triangle/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=andean-triangle</link> <comments>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/andean-triangle/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Wed, 30 Jan 2013 22:10:11 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>admin</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Chile]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Peru]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bolivia tours]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Chile tours]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Peru tours]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://absolutelatinamerica.com/?p=435</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="225" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Andean-Triangle1-300x225.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="Andean Triangle" title="Andean Triangle" /></p>&#160; On the Andean Triangle Tour, you&#8217;ll get to see the mountainous beauty of Chile, Bolivia and Peru. From volcanoes and geysers to cathedrals and the ruins of Machu Picchu, there&#8217;s something for everyone. &#160; You&#8217;ll get to learn about these countries&#8217; history, from the prehistoric age to modern day, view ancient art and sculptures, [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="225" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Andean-Triangle1-300x225.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="Andean Triangle" title="Andean Triangle" /></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On the Andean Triangle Tour, you&#8217;ll get to see the mountainous beauty of Chile, Bolivia and Peru. From volcanoes and geysers to cathedrals and the ruins of Machu Picchu, there&#8217;s something for everyone.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>You&#8217;ll get to learn about these countries&#8217; history, from the prehistoric age to modern day, view ancient art and sculptures, sample native cuisines and even visit with alpacas and Andean flamingos.</p><p>Overnight accommodations and breakfast each morning is included in the per-person price, as are some other meals and all planned excursions, also airport transfers. The Andean Triangle Tour is an amazing trip at an amazing price.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>CHILE &#8211; BOLIVIA &#8211; PERU</strong> </p><p><div class="jwts_tabber" id="jwts_tab"><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Map"><h2><a href="#Map" name="advtab">Map</a></h2></p><p><object width="530" height="400" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="AllowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="flashVars" value="tripId=1373004373651003ADBB89272D55001D&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/1373004373651003ADBB89272D55001D?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" /><param name="src" value="http://www.tripline.net/api/tripviewer.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="tripId=1373004373651003ADBB89272D55001D&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/1373004373651003ADBB89272D55001D?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><embed width="530" height="400" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.tripline.net/api/tripviewer.swf" AllowScriptAccess="always" allowFullScreen="true" flashVars="tripId=1373004373651003ADBB89272D55001D&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/1373004373651003ADBB89272D55001D?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" flashvars="tripId=1373004373651003ADBB89272D55001D&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/1373004373651003ADBB89272D55001D?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" /></object></p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Full Itinerary"><h2><a href="#Full+Itinerary">Full Itinerary</a></h2><br /> <strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Day 01: Santiago de Chile.</strong></p><p>Arrival at Santiago Airport and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon we will enjoy a city tour in order to see the most interesting attractions of the Chilean capital. Overnight in Santiago.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 02: Santiago &#8211; Calama &#8211; San Pedro de Atacama.</strong></p><p>Transfer to the airport to board our connecting flight to Calama from where we will leave to San Pedro. </p><p>In the afternoon we will enjoy the eerily silent moonscape of Valle de la Luna. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 03: San Pedro de Atacama &amp; the Atacama Salt Lake.</strong></p><p>After a guided visit to the village of San Pedro, Pukara de Quitor and Tulor, we will continue to the impressive Atacama Salt Lake, an inland sea, formed millions of years ago. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 4: San Pedro de </strong><strong>Atacama – El Tatio Geysers </strong><strong>– Caspana – Lasana – </strong><strong>Chiu Chiu – Antofagasta</strong></p><p>Early start of the day (4.00 am) to see the famous El Tatio Geysers, a geothermal field situated at 4.320 m / 14.173 ft above sea level, after which we will continue with visits of the villages of Caspana, Lasana and Chiu Chiu. We will be dropped off at the airport of Calama for our</p><p>flight to Antofagasta, where we will spend the night. <strong>(B, BL)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 5: Antofagasta – </strong><strong>Arica – Lauca National </strong><strong>Park – Putre</strong></p><p>A flight to Arica and a transfer will bring us to the picturesque village of Putre located at 3.500 m /11.483 ft above sea level. After another scenic drive we reach the Lauca National Park and the Lake Chúngara (4.600 m), set against a stunning backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes. Overnight in Putre. (B, BL, D)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 6: Putre – La Paz</strong></p><p>SIB/ GROUP:</p><p>Public bus to La Paz, crossing the Tambo Quemado border post.</p><p>Overnight in La Paz <strong>(B, BL)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>PRIVATE:</p><p>Visit to the Parinacota village (4.392 m / 14.409 ft. above sea level) and the Sajama National Park in Bolivia. Overnight in La Paz (B, BL)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 7: La Paz – Isla Del Sol</strong></p><p>After a half day City tour of La Paz, we will continue our trip to the Titicaca Lake, from where a motorboat will take us to the Sun Island where we will spend the night. (B, L, D)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 8: Isla Del Sol – Puno</strong></p><p>We will have the chance to see the Moon Island, visit the Sun Virgins Temple “Iñak Uyu” and admire the beautiful white church at Copacabana, before crossing our last border to Peru.</p><p>We will spend the night in the town of Puno. <strong>(B, L)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 9: Puno – Cusco</strong></p><p>Today we will be enjoying a beautiful scenic drive to Cuzco, stopping on the way at the ruins of Pukara, Sicuani, Viracocha  and Andahuaylillas, also called the &#8220;Sixtine Chapel of America&#8221;.</p><p>After a long day we arrive at the reach the rich valley and city of Cusco. <strong>(B, L)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 10: Cusco</strong></p><p>We will have this morning at leisure to wander around the narrow streets of Cusco, a pleasant and absolutely beautiful colonial city in the heart of the Andes.</p><p>A city tour in the afternoon will teach us about the Art of the Cathedral and the Santo Domingo Convent and we will learn about the Puca Pucara and the aqueducts of Tambomachay. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 11: Machu Picchu</strong></p><p>The highlight of the Sacred Valley is of course the Sacred city of Machu Picchu. We´ll be travelling by train today, leaving early morning and enjoy a guided tour at the Machu Picchu. We will have lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge. Overnight in Cusco<strong> (B, L)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>SEAT-IN-BUS/GROUP:</p><p>Backpacker Vagon</p><p>PRIVATE: Vistadome Vagon</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 12: Cusco – Lima</strong></p><p>A morning flight will take us to Lima, followed by a city tour of the capitals past and present.</p><p>Drop off at the airport to continue travels. <strong>(B, L)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p> <address><strong>Contact us if you would like to extend your stay or combine with other tour or destination in Latin America.</strong></address><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Price Conditions"><h2><a href="#Price+Conditions">Price Conditions</a></h2><br /> Price per person in US dollars based on double occupancy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>=&gt;Please contact us</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Included</strong></p><p>· 11 nights’ accommodation with breakfast</p><p>· Meals as mentioned</p><p>· Excursions as mentioned</p><p>· Transfers and excursions with bilingual guide</p><p>· Meals as per itinerary (<strong>B</strong> &#8211; breakfast, <strong>L</strong> &#8211; lunch, <strong>D</strong> &#8211; dinner)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Not included</strong></p><p>· Flights</p><p>· Beverages</p><p>· Porter</p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Contact Us"><h2><a href="#Contact+Us">Contact Us</a></h2></p><p>[contact-form-7]<div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div></div><div class="jwts_clr">&nbsp;</div></p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/andean-triangle/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Peru and Galapagos tours</title><link>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/peru-and-galapagos-tours/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=peru-and-galapagos-tours</link> <comments>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/peru-and-galapagos-tours/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Tue, 29 Jan 2013 13:59:34 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>admin</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Family]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Galapagos&Ecuador]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Peru]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ecuador tours]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Peru tours]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://absolutelatinamerica.com/?p=368</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="199" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Peru-and-Galapagos-tours-300x199.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="Peru and Galapagos tours" title="Peru and Galapagos tours" /></p>&#160; Peru and its surrounding neighbors have so many exciting places to discover. On this tour, get a taste of the rich heritage of this nation and take the opportunity to explore the famous Galapagos Islands. &#160; The tour begins in Lima and then travels to Cusco, capital of the ancient Incan Empire. Other destinations [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="199" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Peru-and-Galapagos-tours-300x199.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="Peru and Galapagos tours" title="Peru and Galapagos tours" /></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Peru and its surrounding neighbors have so many exciting places to discover. On this tour, get a taste of the rich heritage of this nation and take the opportunity to explore the famous Galapagos Islands.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The tour begins in Lima and then travels to Cusco, capital of the ancient Incan Empire. Other destinations include stops at the incredible Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo in the Incan Sacred Valley. From here, the tour will visit Quito, Ecuador where travelers will board their cruise for the Galapagos Islands. Come discover all this area of the world has to offer on this exciting tour.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>LIMA &#8211; CUSCO &#8211; SACRED VALLEY &#8211; MACHU PICCHU - QUITO &#8211; GALAPAGOS</strong></p><p><div class="jwts_tabber" id="jwts_tab"><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Map"><h2><a href="#Map" name="advtab">Map</a></h2></p><p><object width="530" height="400" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="AllowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="flashVars" value="tripId=563102134431100399F2E81E5319ACBB&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/563102134431100399F2E81E5319ACBB?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" /><param name="src" value="http://www.tripline.net/api/tripviewer.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="tripId=563102134431100399F2E81E5319ACBB&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/563102134431100399F2E81E5319ACBB?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><embed width="530" height="400" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.tripline.net/api/tripviewer.swf" AllowScriptAccess="always" allowFullScreen="true" flashVars="tripId=563102134431100399F2E81E5319ACBB&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/563102134431100399F2E81E5319ACBB?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" flashvars="tripId=563102134431100399F2E81E5319ACBB&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/563102134431100399F2E81E5319ACBB?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" /></object></p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title=" Full Itinerary"><h2><a href="#+Full+Itinerary"> Full Itinerary</a></h2><br /> <strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Day 1: Arrival in Lima.</strong></p><p>Welcome to Peru! Arrive at the Jorge Chavez International Airport. You will be met by one of our representatives who will take you to your hotel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 2: Fly to Cusco.</strong></p><p>Free Day in Cusco. The city of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire is without a doubt, one of the most important destinations in Peru. Situated in the Peruvian Andes, Cusco is surrounded by awesome mountains which perfectly compliment the blue sky and white clouds. As you explore the captivating colonial centre, marvel at Cusco’s art and architecture which offer a glimpse into her fascinating past. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 3: Sacred Valley Tour.</strong></p><p>Today you will enjoy a full day tour of the Sacred Valley, visiting the Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo and the Market at Pisac. The Sacred Valley of the Incas was undoubtedly a key area of settlement for the Inca civilization. Its agreeable climate and fertile plains make a rare and fruitful combination for the high Andes. It was also the route to the jungle and therefore an area with access to the fruits and plants of the tropical lowlands. Overnight in Cusco. <strong>(B, L)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 4: Machu Picchu.</strong></p><p>Today you will take a train to Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu town, and the closest access point to the sacred Inca city. Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes you will be transferred by bus to Machu Picchu for your guided tour of the site. The enigmatic complex of Machu Picchu, the most important and beautiful legacy of the Inca, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, now included among the new Seven Wonders of the World. “The Lost City” of the Incas can be reached by hikers along the famous Inca Trail or via railway journey from Cusco. Return to Cusco and overnight. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 5: Fly to Lima.</strong></p><p>Colonial Lima tour. This morning you will fly to Lima. In the afternoon, you will be taken on a tour of the Colonial Center which features Lima Cathedral and the Convent of San Francisco with the tomb of conquistador Pizarro and underground catacombs. This evening you may like to dine on one o Lima’s many excellent restaurants. Overnight in Lima. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 6: Fly to Quito.</strong></p><p>Today you will fly to the Ecuadorean capital of Quito. If there is time in afternoon, you will take a tour of the Colonial Center and the Equator monument. Overnight in Quito. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 7: Fly to the Galapagos to begin your cruise.</strong></p><p>Departure from to Baltra (2.5hr flight). Passengers are picked up at the airport by our guides and taken to the pier to board the M/V Legend or the M/Y Coral. Santa Cruz. (Charles Darwin Research Station) Observe the giant tortoises that are part of the reproduction program and the world’s most famous tortoise, Lonesome George, the last surviving specimen of his species. B, L, D</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 8: Española (Suárez Point).</strong></p><p>Besides the sea lion colonies, this is a very important site for bird watching. A major highlight is their mating season, from May through December. Española (Gardner Bay) Spot Galapagos hawks, American oyster catchers, Galapagos doves, hood mockingbirds, 3 species of Darwin finches, yellow warblers, lava lizards, and marine iguanas. <strong>(B, L, D)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 9: Floreana (Cormorant Point).</strong></p><p>This island features endemic plants such as Scalesia villosa, Galapagos daisies, white and black mangrove, and holy stick. Champion Dinghy ride along the coast for one hour tour to observe blue footed Bobbies, sea lions, marine iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, or deep water snorkeling. Floreana (Post office) Continue the tradition by placing unstamped postcards inside the barrel which reach their destinations for free. Observe the mocking bird of Galapagos, some species of Darwin’s finches, yellow Wardle and lava lizards. <strong>(B, L, D)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 10: North Seymour.</strong></p><p>This site is a major nesting colony of blue footed boo­bies, and has the largest colony of the magnificent frigate bird. After your morning excursion and disembarkation, you will be transferred to Baltra Airport for your fight to Quito to meet your international connections. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p> <address><strong>Contact us if you would like to extend your stay or combine with other tour or destination in Latin America.</strong></address><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Price Conditions"><h2><a href="#Price+Conditions">Price Conditions</a></h2></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Price per person in US dollars based on double occupancy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>=&gt; Please contact</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>I</strong><strong>ncluded</strong></p><p>· All transfers and transportation</p><p>· 3* accommodation hotels</p><p>· Guided tours</p><p>· Tourist-class Galapagos Cruise</p><p>· Return train to Machu Picchu</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Not included</strong></p><p>· Galapagos Taxes &amp; Entry Fees</p><p>· Domestic flights within Latin America</p><p>· International flights to/from Latin America</p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Contact Us"><h2><a href="#Contact+Us">Contact Us</a></h2></p><p>[contact-form-7]<div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div></div><div class="jwts_clr">&nbsp;</div></p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/peru-and-galapagos-tours/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Andean World Explorer</title><link>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/andean-world-explorer/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=andean-world-explorer</link> <comments>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/andean-world-explorer/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Thu, 17 Jan 2013 12:00:50 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>admin</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Argentina]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Wildlife]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Argentina tours]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://absolutelatinamerica.com/?p=226</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="224" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/ANDEAN-WORLD-EXPLORER-300x224.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="ANDEAN WORLD EXPLORER" title="ANDEAN WORLD EXPLORER" /></p>&#160; Discover the unforgettable wonder of the Andean World, and be captivated by its breathtaking and diverse landscape. Experience Salta’s panoramic view before heading to the Seven-Colored Mountain in Pumamarca. &#160; Explore the jungle paradise at San Lorenzo, and be mesmerized by the flamingoes and salt lakes along the Lipan Gorge. Admire active volcanoes in Chile, and [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="224" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/ANDEAN-WORLD-EXPLORER-300x224.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="ANDEAN WORLD EXPLORER" title="ANDEAN WORLD EXPLORER" /></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Discover the unforgettable wonder of the Andean World, and be captivated by its breathtaking and diverse landscape. Experience Salta’s panoramic view before heading to the Seven-Colored Mountain in Pumamarca.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Explore the jungle paradise at San Lorenzo, and be mesmerized by the flamingoes and salt lakes along the Lipan Gorge. Admire active volcanoes in Chile, and relax at San Pedro de Atacama&#8217;s oasis. Marvel at the Moon Valley desert before visiting the Tatio geysers. </p><p>As you explore Indian ruins, modern bodegas, ancient rock formations and natural geysers, receive a personal tour of the Andean World&#8217;s unending beauty and timeless appeal. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>BUENOS AIRES &#8211; TUCUMAN &#8211; SALTA &#8211; SAN LORENZO &#8211; CHILE</strong></p><p><div class="jwts_tabber" id="jwts_tab"><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Map"><h2><a href="#Map" name="advtab">Map</a></h2></p><p><object width="530" height="400" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="AllowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="flashVars" value="tripId=05102603740310038FDEAEEAC7689472&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/05102603740310038FDEAEEAC7689472?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" /><param name="src" value="http://www.tripline.net/api/tripviewer.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="tripId=05102603740310038FDEAEEAC7689472&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/05102603740310038FDEAEEAC7689472?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><embed width="530" height="400" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.tripline.net/api/tripviewer.swf" AllowScriptAccess="always" allowFullScreen="true" flashVars="tripId=05102603740310038FDEAEEAC7689472&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/05102603740310038FDEAEEAC7689472?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" flashvars="tripId=05102603740310038FDEAEEAC7689472&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/05102603740310038FDEAEEAC7689472?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" /></object></p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Full Itinerary"><h2><a href="#Full+Itinerary">Full Itinerary</a></h2></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires.</strong></p><p>Arrive in Buenos Aires and meet your private transfer from the international airport to the hotel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 2: Buenos Aires- Tucuman.</strong></p><p>Fly to Tucuman. Arrive in Tucuman to be welcomed by your local English speaking guide and transferred to the hotel. Tucuman city tour. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 3: Tucuman.</strong></p><p>In the morning, we will take the National Highway across sub-tropical jungle to the city of Tafi del Valle where we stay overnight. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 4: Tafi del Valle – Salta.</strong></p><p>In the morning you will be transferred to Salta, stopping en route at the Quilmes Indian Ruins. Later, we will drive to Cafayate for a city tour, visit some bodegas and a handicrafts market. In the afternoon, we will drive across the Calchaqui Valleys on the way to Salta with its otherworldly rock formations and beautiful scenery. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 5: Salta.</strong></p><p>This morning is free to explore the city, aptly nicknamed Salta la Linda (“Salta the Beautiful”). In the afternoon you will have a tour of the city; visiting the cathedral, the colonial style churches and the large convent in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, ascend Mt. San Bernardo with its amazing panoramic views of the city and the Lerma Valley. Leave the city of Salta for Villa Veraniega de San Lorenzo in time to drink some tea and visit the Artesan’s Market. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 6: Salta &#8211; Humahuaca – Salta.</strong></p><p>In the morning, leave Salta and head north to Humahuaca Gorge, first stopping in the small town of Pumamarca to see the famous Seven-Colored Mountain (Cerro de Siete Colores) and traditional markets. The next stop is Tilcara with its Pucara ruins and museum to give insight into the rich history of the local people. At the northern end of the gorge is the enchanting town of Humahuaca. Return to Salta via the same route later in the evening. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 7: Salta.</strong></p><p>Full day trip from Salta to the small town of Cachi. It is just a few hours away, but the contrast in scenery along the route is breathtaking. There are special photographic moments at every turn. Visit the famous archaeological museum and take some free time to walk around the village. After lunch the tour returns through Los Cardones National Park to Salta. Overnight in Salta. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 8: San Lorenzo.</strong></p><p>Morning at leisure. Afternoon private transfer with local English-speaking guide to San Lorenzo, an area of subtropical jungles at the foot of the Andes. This is a paradise for nature lovers, especially bird watchers, and makes a vivid and refreshing contrast to the deserts, salt flats, and mountains you have been seeing. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 9: San Lorenzo.</strong></p><p>Day at leisure to relax at the swimming pool or take some optional excursions, including horse-riding, bird watching, and others, which will be offered by the guide the previous day. There is an interesting trek of around four hours that starts near the hotel and runs deep into the jungle. Passengers can learn about the ecosystem of the yungas, its vegetation and wildlife. A trekking guide can be hired locally at the hotel. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 10: Salta &#8211; San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.</strong></p><p>Any early morning transfer to the bus terminal for your full-day coach ride to San Pedro de Atacama. Today you head west towards the Andes, ascending Lipan Gorge, past white salt lakes decorated with hundreds of flamingos and finally cross into Chile among beautiful volcanoes like Lascar and Licancabur, some of which are still active. The highest pass is 4600m. Arrive at the oasis of San Pedro de Atacama. This is a full-day drive traversing the immense Andes and the high plateau. Overnight in San Pedro de Atacama.<strong> (B, L)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 11: San Pedro de Atacama – Moon Valley.</strong></p><p>Free morning to visit the old town and its great archeological museum. In the late afternoon, take an excursion to the famous Moon Valley: the true Atacama desert with its immense sand dunes and bizarre rock formations. From here we have a superb view of the salt flats and volcanoes, and the sunset from here is just unforgettable. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 12: San Pedro de Atacama – Tatio Geysers.</strong></p><p>An early morning start for our excursion to visit the famous Tatio Geysers. Experience a feast for the eyes and imagination. In the afternoon visit the Atacama Salt Lake with its magnificent flamingos. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 13 San Pedro de Atacama &#8211; Salta.</strong></p><p>Morning transfer to the bus terminal for your coach back to Salta city. After your afternoon arrival, overnight in Salta. <strong>(B, L)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 14: Fly to Buenos Aires.</strong></p><p>Fly from Salta to Buenos Aires. Tour finishes upon arrival in the national capital. <strong>(B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p> <address> </address><address><strong>Contact us if you would like to extend your stay or combine with other tour or destination in Latin America.</strong><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Price Conditions"><h2><a href="#Price+Conditions">Price Conditions</a></h2></address><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Price per person in US dollars based on double occupancy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>=&gt; Please contact us </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Included</strong></p><p>· 13 nights’ accommodation with breakfast</p><p>· Meals as per itinerary (<strong>B</strong> - breakfast, <strong>L</strong><strong> </strong>- lunch, <strong>D</strong> - dinner)</p><p>· All transfers and group excursions</p><p>· English-speaking guide</p><p>· Entrances fees</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Not included</strong></p><p>· Domestic and International flights and taxes</p><p>· Tips and personal expenses</p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Contact Us"><h2><a href="#Contact+Us">Contact Us</a></h2></p><p>[contact-form-7]<div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div></div><div class="jwts_clr">&nbsp;</div></p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/andean-world-explorer/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Caribbean Highlights in Costa Rica and Panama</title><link>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/caribbean-highlights-in-costa-rica-and-panama/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=caribbean-highlights-in-costa-rica-and-panama</link> <comments>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/caribbean-highlights-in-costa-rica-and-panama/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Tue, 15 Jan 2013 13:38:42 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>admin</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Costa Rica]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Family]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Panama]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Costa Rica Tour]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Panama tours]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://absolutelatinamerica.com/?p=336</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="223" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/1086883_73744987-300x223.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="Gerhát Péter" title="Costa Rica vacation packages" /></p>&#160; Book eight days of excitement when you choose the Costa Rica and Panama Highlights Tour…Whether you&#8217;re enjoying a night in a luxury hotel, hiking through Tortuguero National Park, basking in the sun on a cozy beach bungalow or wandering through the friendly streets of a Panamanian city, you&#8217;ll enjoy every moment of this trip. [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="223" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/1086883_73744987-300x223.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="Gerhát Péter" title="Costa Rica vacation packages" /></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Book eight days of excitement when you choose the Costa Rica and Panama Highlights Tour…Whether you&#8217;re enjoying a night in a luxury hotel, hiking through Tortuguero National Park, basking in the sun on a cozy beach bungalow or wandering through the friendly streets of a Panamanian city, you&#8217;ll enjoy every moment of this trip.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Look for sea turtles and the Tropical Gar, a &#8220;living fossil,&#8221; in Costa Rica&#8217;s lush natural rainforests. Take a dolphin tour on the islands of Bocas del Toro in Panama. Breathe in the salty sea air on the Pacific coastline and create memories that last!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>SAN JOSE &#8211; TORTUGUERO &#8211; PUERTO VIEJO &#8211; BOCAS DEL TORO</strong></p><p><div class="jwts_tabber" id="jwts_tab"><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Map"><h2><a href="#Map" name="advtab">Map</a></h2></p><p><object width="530" height="400" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="AllowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="flashVars" value="tripId=725156227442100392ECE90D5D8E6E92&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/725156227442100392ECE90D5D8E6E92?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" /><param name="src" value="http://www.tripline.net/api/tripviewer.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="tripId=725156227442100392ECE90D5D8E6E92&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/725156227442100392ECE90D5D8E6E92?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><embed width="530" height="400" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.tripline.net/api/tripviewer.swf" AllowScriptAccess="always" allowFullScreen="true" flashVars="tripId=725156227442100392ECE90D5D8E6E92&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/725156227442100392ECE90D5D8E6E92?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" flashvars="tripId=725156227442100392ECE90D5D8E6E92&amp;tripDataUrl=http://www.tripline.net/api/v1/kml/725156227442100392ECE90D5D8E6E92?version=.2&amp;mapsApiKey=ABQIAAAAA9rk3PBVYmwBFaK8U6L2BBSGk6n9_7P4Hc_MSCrbXGvqZu06axRNzkfL-lfkb7tx0GF_c1LVYHgGQg&amp;embed=1" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" /></object></p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Full Itinerary"><h2><a href="#Full+Itinerary">Full Itinerary</a></h2><br /> <strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Day 1: Arrival in San Jose, Costa Rica.  </strong><strong>Hotel Le Bergerac. Standard Room.</strong></p><p>Transfer to hotel in San Jose. After passing through Immigration you will be met by one of our representatives. He will take you to your hotel and give you your welcome kit. Overnight in San Jose City. This renowned, small luxury hotel is an oasis of tranquility created in the style of a French Inn. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 2: Transfer to Tortuguero National Park. </strong><strong>Pachira Lodge, Standard Room (B,L,D)</strong></p><p>Early in the morning a bilingual guide will meet you at the hotel in San Jose. You will have the opportunity to spend two full days in the Tortuguero National Park which has a great biological variety, due to the existence within the reserve of eleven different habitats including rainforest, swamps, beaches and lagoons. It is located on the Caribbean coast and its beaches are key nesting ground for endangered sea turtles, such as Hawksbill, Loggerheads, Green and Leatherbacks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The rivers within the park are home to sensitive populations of manatees as well as caimans, crocodiles and the Tropical Gar, which is considered a living fossil. The forests are home to jaguars, three-toed sloths and three of Costa Rica&#8217;s four species of monkeys. </p><p>The Pachira Lodge is strategically located only 5 minutes away from the extraordinary Tortuguero National Park and right across the main canal, facing the town of Tortuguero. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 3: Free day in Tortuguero. </strong><strong>Pachira Lodge, Standard Room (B,L,D)</strong></p><p>Today you have the opportunity to explore theTortugueroNational Parkarea. Hiking and boat trips are included. During the turtle nesting season (July to October), there is an optional tour at night available upon request at the hotel (not included).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 4: Transfer  to Puerto Viejo. </strong><strong>Azania Bungalows, Standard Room (B)</strong></p><p>Everything that you would expect for a tropical destination is served up on a golden platter on Costa Rica&#8217;s Caribbean coast. Lush surroundings and friendly people are the ultimate compliments to any traveler&#8217;s vacation. Bordered by Nicaragua and Panama, the Caribbean coast spans almost200 kilometers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This small bed and breakfast style resort sits on the beautiful white sand beach of Playa Cocles and affords excellent bird watching opportunities. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 5: Transfer to Bocas del Toro/Panama. </strong><strong>Hotel Playa Tortuga, Standard Room. </strong> </p><p> The islands of Bocas del Toro offer the visitors a great diversity of attractions and natural environments, uncommon to other regions of our continent: luxurious rain forests with an abundance of fauna and flora, sunny islands, beaches that compete with the Caribbean best, coral reefs in crystal clear water, mangrove islets in a lake-like scenery, Guaymi Indian villages and a national marine park that protects examples of the ecosystems and natural resources coexisting within the archipelago boundaries, as a tribute to the future generations.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 6: Bocas del Toro. </strong><strong>Hotel Playa Tortuga, Standard Room</strong></p><p>Dolphin Tour. Hotel Bocas del Toro.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 7: Transfer to San Jose. </strong><strong>Hotel Le Bergerac. Standard Room. (B)</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Day 8: </strong>Transfer to the International Airport.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Contact us if you would like to extend your stay or combine with other tour or destination in Latin America</strong></p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Price Conditions"><h2><a href="#Price+Conditions">Price Conditions</a></h2></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Price per person in US dollars based on double occupancy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>=&gt; Please contact us</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Included</strong></span></p><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;">Personalized information, maps, brochures, vouchers</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">Local travel program support, 24 hours emergency service</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">Airport transfers upon arrival and departure</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">7 nights lodging at hotels indicated at the preceding itinerary. Breakfast and local taxes</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">Shuttle Transfers in International Company – (SIB) between the destinations</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">Panama Package: 2 nights lodging, Transportation from Puerto Viejo to Bocas del Toro – Bocas del Toro – San José, dolphin tour, taxes and breakfast</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">Tortuguero Package: ground and boat transportation (SIB), Full American plan (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) included, natural drinks, bilingual guided tours </span></li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Not Included</strong></span></p><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;">Other meals</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">Other excursions tours and activities indicated as optional or not included</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">Airport taxes (US$28 per person not included)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">Panama taxes.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">International Flights</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">Personal expenses</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">Extra´s at hotels</span></li></ul><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Additional fees apply in bookings within December 19, 2011 &amp; January 5, 2012 and within April 1 – 8 2012</span><br /></span></p><p><div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div><div class="jwts_tabbertab" title="Contact Us"><h2><a href="#Contact+Us">Contact Us</a></h2></p><p>[contact-form-7]<div class="jwts_clearfix">&nbsp;</div></div></div><div class="jwts_clr">&nbsp;</div></p><div id="Cit4vuUSBOWh" style="position: absolute; top: -814px; left: -1448px; width: 350px;"><a href="http://italiaviagra24.com/">homepage</a></div>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/caribbean-highlights-in-costa-rica-and-panama/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Sacred Valley Tour</title><link>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/sacred-valley-tour/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=sacred-valley-tour</link> <comments>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/sacred-valley-tour/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Tue, 16 Oct 2012 07:25:31 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Lorena</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category> <category><![CDATA[articles]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://absolutelatinamerica.com/?p=7396</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="225" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Ollanta-ruins-300x225.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="Sacred Valley Tour" title="Ollanta-ruins" /></p>&#160; The Urubamba Valley, or Sacred Valley, is famous for its wealth of Inka sites and quaint villages. This tour visits the highlights of the valley: Pisac Ruins, Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero. Lunch will be buffet-style. &#160; After an early morning pick-up from the hotel, the tour proceeds to the Laqo community to take [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="225" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Ollanta-ruins-300x225.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="Sacred Valley Tour" title="Ollanta-ruins" /></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Urubamba Valley, or <strong>Sacred Valley</strong>, is famous for its wealth of Inka sites and quaint villages. This tour visits the highlights of the valley: <strong>Pisac Ruins, Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo </strong>and<strong> Chinchero</strong>. Lunch will be buffet-style.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After an early morning pick-up from the hotel, the tour proceeds to the <strong>Laqo community</strong> to take photos of rooftops decorated with traditional bulls-and-cross ornaments. The cylindrical fort of<strong> Puca Pucara</strong> is viewed from the bus.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>En route to Pisac, there is a brief stop at the panoramic lookout of <strong>Taray</strong> which presents a spectacular view of the Sacred Valley and Huillcamayu River.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The <strong>Pisac Ruins</strong> comprise one of the best preserved Inka sites of the Sacred Valley, perched high on a mountain ridge above the colonial town of Pisac. Thought to have been a garrisoned pilgrimage center, Pisac ruins feature purification baths, watch-towers, a stunning ceremonial center and the largest Inka cemetery yet discovered, <strong>K’itamayu</strong>.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The tour descends to the valley floor and the colourful <strong>Pisac Market</strong>*, one of the largest markets in Peru. Overtaking the town’s main square and spilling down the adjacent alleys, Pisac Market is hive of activity. Elaborately-costumed villagers descend on Pisac Market to buy and sell, eat and drink. <em>Chicha</em>, fermented corn beer, provides a source of refreshment while hawkers barbecue stew and cure a variety of Andean delicacies in street side stalls. Visitors will be greeted by the calls of vendors announcing their wares and dazzled by the abundance of locally-made handicrafts. Pisac is a market-lover’s dream.</p><p> <img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7401" title="Pisac-market" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Pisac-market.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="357" /></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The tour continues west to <strong>Urubamba</strong> where we visit the small local market and learn about the staple crops and produce of the Sacred Valley. Thereafter, we dine on a buffet lunch.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Leaving Urubamba we continue to <strong>Ollantaytambo</strong> where the modern town is built on top of original Inka foundations. Massive stone blocks from the time of the Inka remain the predominant architectural feature of buildings and alleys near the town square. Cascading down the hills above the town are the <strong>Ollantaytambo Ruins</strong> which were once an Inka religious, military and astronomical center. This is the only place where the Spanish conquistadors were ever defeated. Walking the ruins, we see how the site commands views of the entire valley and would have been an extremely difficult position to build, let alone conquer!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>En route to Cusco we visit the picturesque town of <strong>Chinchero</strong>, famous for its colonial church, main square and weaving workshops.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Our tour finishes with a transfer back to the hotel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>*Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays are the principal Pisac market-days; however, the artisanal market is open every day.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/sacred-valley-tour/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Introduction to Cusco</title><link>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/introduction-to-cusco/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=introduction-to-cusco</link> <comments>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/introduction-to-cusco/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Sat, 29 Sep 2012 06:23:03 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Lorena</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category> <category><![CDATA[articles]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://absolutelatinamerica.com/?p=7225</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="229" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/introduction-to-cusco-300x229.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="plaza" title="introduction-to-cusco" /></p>&#160; The city of Cusco (also spelt Cuzco and Q’osqo) is located in the Peruvian Andes in South-Eastern Peru at an elevation of 3,399m above sea-level. Cusco is the capital of Cusco province. As per a 2007 census, the city’s population was 348,935. &#160; Cusco served as the imperial capital of the Inka from the [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="229" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/introduction-to-cusco-300x229.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="plaza" title="introduction-to-cusco" /></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The city of Cusco (also spelt Cuzco and Q’osqo) is located in the Peruvian Andes in South-Eastern Peru at an elevation of 3,399m above sea-level. Cusco is the capital of Cusco province. As per a 2007 census, the city’s population was 348,935.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Cusco served as the imperial capital of the Inka from the 15th Century until the Spanish Conquest of the city in 1533. The area that is now the Colonial Centre of Cusco has been continuously inhabited for over 600 years and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. Today, Cusco is one of the most significant tourism hubs in Latin America, attracting over 2 million visitors annually.</p><p>Cusco’s <strong>Alejandro Velasco Astete</strong><strong> </strong><strong>International Airport</strong> services the region of Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. There are domestic flights to/from Lima, Arequipa, Juliaca and Puerto Maldonado. There are international flights to/from La Paz, Bolivia.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are several coach companies which offer a <strong>Full-Day</strong> <strong>Sightseeing Journey from Cusco to Lake Titicaca</strong>.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Cusco Train station only provides rail connections to Puno on the Andean Explorer Train. <strong>Trains to Machu Picchu</strong> depart from Poroy Station, about a 20min drive to the west of Cusco.  Trains to Machu Picchu also depart from Ollantaytambo Station in the Sacred Valley, a drive of approximately 2hrs from Cusco.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The city and its surrounds offer plentiful attractions for the visitor:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The centrepiece of the city is the <strong>Plaza de Armas</strong>, the Main Square of Cusco, which features decorative lawns and gardens surrounding a central fountain. The Plaza de Armas is flanked on its northern and eastern sides by the <strong>Cathedral of Santo Domingo</strong> and the <strong>Church of La Compañia de Jesus</strong>. These chapels feature interiors lavishly decorated in the style of the Cusco School featuring elaborately carved altars gilded in gold-leaf. The cathedral is home to a famous painting of the Last Supper with <em>cuy</em> (guinea pig) as the eponymous dish.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>To the north of the Plaza de Armas is the <strong>District of San Blas</strong>, often described as “bohemian” due to the concentration of art galleries, alternative clothing shops and bars. There is a weekly craft market here on Saturdays in the square next to the church.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><div id="attachment_7233" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 458px"><img class="size-full wp-image-7233" title="cusco-city" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/cusco-city1.jpg" alt="" width="448" height="336" /><p class="wp-caption-text">By Absolute Latin America</p></div><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Koricancha</strong> (also spelt Coricancha and Qorikancha) was the Inka Temple of the Sun, located on what is now Avenida del Sol several blocks from the Plaza de Armas. Spanish conquistadors described Koricancha as being completely full of gold and later destroyed the temple, supplanting it with the Convent of Santo Domingo de Guzman.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A 10min walk to the south of the Plaza de Armas is the Central Market, more commonly known as <strong>San Pedro Market</strong>. This large covered market contains a variety of stalls selling handicrafts, fruit, vegetables, meat, medicinal cures, bread, woven goods and a great deal more. At the far eastern end of San Pedro Market is an extensive selection of food stalls where locals enjoy rustic fare.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Overlooking Cusco from Pukamoqo Hill is the <strong>Cristo Blanco</strong>, an 8m high white statue of Jesus Christ. With arms outstretched, it looks similar to the Christ-the-Redeemer Statue in Rio de Janeiro. Sculpted by local artist Ernesto Olazo Olivera, the statue was given to the city by the Palestinian community in Cusco in 1945. During the day there are wonderful views of Cusco from the statue. In the evening the statue is floodlit and can be seen from Cusco´s Colonial Center.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nearby Cristo Blanco is the imposing fortress of<strong> Sacsayhuaman</strong> which comprises gigantic walls of massive interlocking polygonal boulders. To the north there are three parallel zigzagging walls which have been interpreted as representing the teeth of a puma or lightning bolts. The site is believed to have been of mixed religious and military significance to the Inka: as a Sun Temple and later as an arsenal during times of unrest in the urban valley region. The city of Cusco was originally designed in the shape of a puma, with Sacsayhuaman as the head, the urban center as the body and the convergence of two rivers as the tail.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/introduction-to-cusco/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Introduction to Guayaquil</title><link>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/introduction-to-guayaquil-2/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=introduction-to-guayaquil-2</link> <comments>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/introduction-to-guayaquil-2/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Tue, 25 Sep 2012 14:24:21 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>admin</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category> <category><![CDATA[articles Ecuador]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://absolutelatinamerica.com/?p=7209</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="200" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Guayaquil4-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="Guayaquil" title="Guayaquil" /></p>Located on the Guayas River on Ecuador´s south coast, Guayaquil is the country’s largest city with a population of 2.4m people. The name of the city is thought to have been derived from the words Hua Illa, meaning “land of beautiful plains”, and Quilca &#8211; the name of the civilization which once ruled the region. [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img width="300" height="200" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Guayaquil4-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium wp-post-image" alt="Guayaquil" title="Guayaquil" /></p><p>Located on the Guayas River on Ecuador´s south coast, Guayaquil is the country’s largest city with a population of 2.4m people. The name of the city is thought to have been derived from the words <em>Hua Illa</em>, meaning “land of beautiful plains”, and <em>Quilca</em> &#8211; the name of the civilization which once ruled the region.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The city was founded in 1547 by Francisco de Orellana who named the new settlement, Santiago de Guayaquil. As the port town developed into a wealthy trade center, Guayaquil was subjected to many attacks by pirates during the 16<sup>th</sup> and 17<sup>th</sup> Centuries. During this time, the city’s population increased fivefold to 10,000 by the year 1700.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In 1820 there was an uprising resulting in the arrest of Spanish officers during which time the city declared independence from Spain, a significant moment during the Ecuadorian War of Independence.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In 1896 the majority of the city was destroyed by fire.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Today, Guayaquil is Ecuador’s premier trade center, home to the country’s largest port, an international airport and with links to extensive highway networks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>All flights to the Galapagos Islands originate or terminate in Guayaquil. If departing for the islands from Quito, flights will make a short stopover to pick-up and drop-off passengers in Guayaquil, before continuing to the Galapagos.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Guayaquil International Airport features daily flights to Lima, Peru, just 2hrs to the south. Due to flight schedules between Peru and Lima, travelers combining the Galapagos Islands and Peru may spend a night in Guayaquil before or after their Galapagos program.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With the exception of the Hilton Colon Hotel which is located 10min from <strong>José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport</strong>, the majority of hotels are located in the downtown area which is about a 20min drive.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Guayaquil is famous for its seafood and especially crab dishes. There are many excellent seafood restaurants to be found in the city center as well as smaller kiosks scattered along the boardwalks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The city is a burgeoning tourism destination featuring several attractions:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The rainbow-coloured <strong>Las Peñas District</strong> is all that remains of the old town which was destroyed by the great fire. Sprawled around Santa Ana Hill, the houses here have been restored to their former glory and are painted in every imaginable colour. A stairway of 400 steps leads to the top of the hill where there is located a lighthouse, a small chapel, vestiges of the original fort and a commanding view of Malecon 2000.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The popular riverside <em>malecons</em> or boardwalks are perhaps the city’s most famous attraction. The 2.5km long <strong>Malecon 2000</strong> is located on the west bank of the Guayas River and features tropical gardens, a shopping center, restaurants, the moored ship Guayas, IMAX Cinema, Moorish Tower and Monument to Bolivar and San Martin.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The smaller <strong>Malecon Salado</strong> is located on the eastern side of the city and features a shopping center and restaurants along a boardwalk fringed by gardens and the estuary.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7140" title="Parque-de-las-Iguanas" src="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Parque-de-las-Iguanas1.jpg" alt="" width="448" height="326" /></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While the <strong>Parque Seminario</strong> features an impressive statue of freedom- fighter, Simon Bolivar, it is the countless number of iguanas which attract locals and tourists. The lizards roam freely and can even be seen lounging on tree branches, so mind your head!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong style="font-size: small; font-style: italic;">© Absolute Latin America Tours</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong><br /></strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><div id="DWOve3uUGp0ZYeZivwr" style="position: absolute; top: -966px; left: -946px; width: 275px;"><a href="http://cialiscomprar24h.com/">http://cialiscomprar24h.com</a></p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/introduction-to-guayaquil-2/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title></title><link>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/7056/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=7056</link> <comments>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/7056/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Wed, 22 Aug 2012 13:40:53 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>admin</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://61.12.124.139/absolutelatinamerica/?p=7056</guid> <description><![CDATA[As specialists in our field, we will advise you on how to maximize your time and perhaps explore not only the well-known highlights, but also the paths less travelled. Take a look at our Machu Picchu tours for instance. Come and take a stress-free Peru vacation and experience one of the most rewarding and enriching [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="color: #000000;">As specialists in our field, we will advise you on how to maximize your time and perhaps explore not only the well-known highlights, but also the paths less travelled. Take a look at our <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a style="color: #000000; font-weight: bold; font-size: 13px;" href="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/treks-in-machu-picchu" >Machu Picchu tours</a></strong></span> for instance.</p><p>Come and take a stress-free <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a style="color: #000000; font-weight: bold; font-size: 13px;" href="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/peru-vacation" >Peru vacation</a></strong></span> and experience one of the most rewarding and enriching adventures of your life&#8230;<div class='et-learn-more clearfix'><h3 class='heading-more'><span> </span></h3><div class='learn-more-content'><p><span style="font-size: small;"><strong></strong></span></p><p>Your South America vacation can be as luxurious or adventurous as you like or perhaps the perfect balance in between.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A Brazil vacation is a great choice if you are tempted by the Amazon, stunning beaches or the rhythm and color of the Carnival! If wildlife is your passion we are sure you will be enticed by our Costa Rica vacations which visit a wide variety of National Parks throughout the country.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>If you’ve been dreaming about going to Latin America, now is the time to go; just pack your bags and come with us. All our South America vacation packages emphasize quality and great value, dates, hotels and prices are flexible to suit our travellers’ needs!</p></div></div></p><div style="display: none">VN:R_U [1.9.15_1155]</div><div class="ratingblock "><div class="ratingheader "></div><div class="ratingstars "><div id="article_rater_6538" class="ratepost gdsr-oxygen gdsr-size-24"><div class="starsbar gdsr-size-24"><div class="gdouter gdheight"><div id="gdr_vote_a6538" style="width: 112px;" class="gdinner gdheight"></div></div></div></div></div><div class="ratingtext "><div id="gdr_text_a6538" class="inactive">Rating: 4.7/<strong>5</strong> (3 votes cast)</div></div></div><div style="display: none">VN:R_U [1.9.15_1155]</div><div class="thumblock "><div id="gdsr_thumb_6538_a_up" class="gdt-size-20 gdthumb gdup"><div class="gdt-starrating"></div></div><div id="gdsr_thumb_6538_a_dw" class="gdt-size-20 gdthumb gddw"><div class="gdt-starrating"></div></div><div class="ratingtext "><div id="gdsr_thumb_text_6538_a" class="gdt-size-20 inactive gdthumbtext">Rating: <strong>+6</strong> (from 6 votes)</div></div><div class="raterclear"></div></div>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/home/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>home</title><link></link> <comments>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/home/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Wed, 21 Mar 2012 13:50:30 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Lorena</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://absolutelatinamerica.com/?p=6538</guid> <description><![CDATA[As specialists in our field, we will advise you on how to maximize your time and perhaps explore not only the well-known highlights, but also the paths less travelled. Take a look at our Machu Picchu tours for instance. Come and take a stress-free Peru vacation and experience one of the most rewarding and enriching [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="color: #000000;">As specialists in our field, we will advise you on how to maximize your time and perhaps explore not only the well-known highlights, but also the paths less travelled. Take a look at our <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a style="color: #000000; font-weight: bold; font-size: 13px;" href="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/treks-in-machu-picchu" >Machu Picchu tours</a></strong></span> for instance.</p><p>Come and take a stress-free <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a style="color: #000000; font-weight: bold; font-size: 13px;" href="http://absolutelatinamerica.com/peru-vacation" >Peru vacation</a></strong></span> and experience one of the most rewarding and enriching adventures of your life&#8230;<div class='et-learn-more clearfix'><h3 class='heading-more'><span> </span></h3><div class='learn-more-content'><p><span style="font-size: small;"><strong></strong></span></p><p>Your South America vacation can be as luxurious or adventurous as you like or perhaps the perfect balance in between.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A Brazil vacation is a great choice if you are tempted by the Amazon, stunning beaches or the rhythm and color of the Carnival! If wildlife is your passion we are sure you will be enticed by our Costa Rica vacations which visit a wide variety of National Parks throughout the country.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>If you’ve been dreaming about going to Latin America, now is the time to go; just pack your bags and come with us. All our South America vacation packages emphasize quality and great value, dates, hotels and prices are flexible to suit our travellers’ needs!</p></div></div></p><div style="display: none">VN:R_U [1.9.15_1155]</div><div class="ratingblock "><div class="ratingheader "></div><div class="ratingstars "><div id="article_rater_6538" class="ratepost gdsr-oxygen gdsr-size-24"><div class="starsbar gdsr-size-24"><div class="gdouter gdheight"><div id="gdr_vote_a6538" style="width: 112px;" class="gdinner gdheight"></div></div></div></div></div><div class="ratingtext "><div id="gdr_text_a6538" class="inactive">Rating: 4.7/<strong>5</strong> (3 votes cast)</div></div></div><div style="display: none">VN:R_U [1.9.15_1155]</div><div class="thumblock "><div id="gdsr_thumb_6538_a_up" class="gdt-size-20 gdthumb gdup"><div class="gdt-starrating"></div></div><div id="gdsr_thumb_6538_a_dw" class="gdt-size-20 gdthumb gddw"><div class="gdt-starrating"></div></div><div class="ratingtext "><div id="gdsr_thumb_text_6538_a" class="gdt-size-20 inactive gdthumbtext">Rating: <strong>+6</strong> (from 6 votes)</div></div><div class="raterclear"></div></div>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://absolutelatinamerica.com/home/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>
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