ITINERARY

Day 1-2
Arrival in Buenos Aires - a city where everyone can see something familiar, from Canary Wharf in London to the central districts of Paris. We will go on a citywalk, learn the history of tango and visit the grave of one of his godfathers, and maybe even learn to dance! Also, we will definitely try delicious local cuisine.

Day 3
We will take a day flight (three hours long) to El Calafate, Argentine gates to fantastic Patagonia - the region of blue lakes, sharp peaks and strong winds. We will walk around a calm tourist town and have a look at the Nimez lagoon with hundreds of different birds. Check into a hotel.

Day 4
We will take a bus to the spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier (1,5 hours on the way). We will watch the boulders of ice falling from a height of 50-60 meters with the clatter. We can also sail closer to the glacier with the ship, or even go for hiking on Perito Moreno. Coming back to El Calafate for the night.

Day 5
Departure to the Chilean Patagonia. We take a comfortable bus to Puerto Natales (about 6 hours on the way) going through an incredible scenery. After lunch, we will make final preparations for our trekking through the W route in the Torres del Paine Park. Night in the hotel.

Day 6
We take the bus to Torres del Paine National Park (3 hours on the way). Upon arrival we get all the necessary permissions and start our trek towards the place where we are going to spend the first night - the Torre Central campsite. Here we leave all our equipment, take the most necessary things and departure to the Torres peaks, which the park is named after. The trek takes 4,5 hours in one direction at a calm pace with stops. Coming back to camping for the night.

Day 7
Today we will walk along the incredible Lake Nordenskjold to the central part of the route - Francais and Cuernos camping sites, where we will spend the night. The trek takes about five hours.

Day 8
Perhaps the most beautiful day of trekking. In the morning we will go up to the Italiano campsite (around 1,5 hours), where we leave all heavy belongings before our next ascent. Afterwards we will walk to French valley and up to Britannica Mirador (up to three hours walking) where we will see a 360 degrees view of surrounding mountains. From here we go down at a calm pace (about 5 hours) to the popular shelter of the national park - Paine Grande, which is located on the shores of Lake Pehoe.

Day 9
In the morning we departure in the direction of Refugio Grey campsite (3,5 hours) to see the majestic glacier which has the same name. Not far from the glacier, we officially finish writing the letter W, thus passing one of the most impressive trekking routes of the world! Night in Refugio Grey (or coming back to Paine Grande).

Day 10
At sunrise we will cross Pehoe Lake on a catamaran, moving towards Pudeto wharf (an hour on the way). From there, we take a bus or private transport to the place with an incredible view of the entire Torres del Paine massif (one hour on the way). We enjoy the panorama and go on a short hike to the nearest pass (1-2 hours). We spend the night in a hotel on the shores of the Lake Pehoe.

Day 11
After admiring the majestic mountains of the Chilean Patagonia, we come back by bus to Puerto Natales (1,5 hours) and take a bus to Punta Arenas city (3 hours), which is located on the shores of the Strait of Magellan. Night in Punta Arenas in a hotel or guesthouse.

Day 12-13
Two days in Punta Arenas. The weather here is often unpredictable, so we will stay in the city for two days, to have more chances to meet sea lions and Magellanic penguins. We will also walk around the old city center and try delicious seafood in one of the family cafes in the local market. At the end of the second day we come back to Puerto Natales (3 hours) on a comfortable bus.

Day 14
Today we are traveling long by buses. First - to El Calafate in Argentina (6 hours on the way), and then - to El Chalten, climbing capital of Patagonia (3 hours on the way). Here we will prepare for tomorrow's trekking (and rent, if necessary, all the equipment). We will also buy food and spend the night in a hotel.

Day 15
Morning departure to the Capri lagoon - a small lake in front of the incredible Fitz Roy mountain. While enjoying the track through the fairytale forest and the views around, we are going to hike towards the Poincenot camp and set up our tents there (about 3 hours of walk). Then we will leave for a short few hours walk to the impressive Piedras Blancas glacier and come back to the camp in the evening to fall asleep early. Overnight in tents.

Day 16
With a minimum of belongings, we start our hike towards Laguna de Los Tres to see with our own eyes probably the most beautiful sunrise in our life. After a sharp but short ascent (around to 1,5 hours) we will see a spectacular view on the great and the most beautiful peak of South America. We go down to the camp, have breakfast and hike to the camping D'Agostino, which is located in a picturesque forest at the foot of another famous peak of Patagonia - Cerro Torre (around three hours of hike). Overnight in tents.

Day 17
Another dawn in the Patagonian mountains in the lagoon of Torre. After a walk of 15 minutes we will enjoy the rays of the morning sun, reflected in the crystal clear water of the mountain lake. Coming back to the camp, having breakfast, and proceed through the beautiful valley to El Chalten (about three hours of hike). In the evening we will discuss our impressions in a local restaurant with a glass of Patagonian wine.

Day 18
In the morning we depart by bus to El Calafate (3 hours on the way) and fly back to Buenos Aires. Flight back home.

Trip leader - Bogdan Skaskiv
In love with the mountains since he was a child, Bogdan is sure that it is there that we discover our best qualities. He lived in Warsaw, Minsk and Buenos Aires, working in international IT companies. He is fond of photography, skiing and hiking. Bogdan is an expert in South America.

Day 1-2
Arrival in Buenos Aires - a city where everyone can see something familiar, from Canary Wharf in London to the central districts of Paris. We will go on a city walk, learn the history of tango and visit the grave of one of his godfathers, and maybe even learn to dance! Also, we will definitely try delicious local cuisine.

Day 3
We will take a day flight (three hours long) to El Calafate, Argentine gates to fantastic Patagonia - the region of blue lakes, sharp peaks and strong winds. We will walk around a calm tourist town and have a look at the Nimez lagoon with hundreds of different birds. Check into a hotel.

Day 4
We will take a bus to the spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier (1,5 hours on the way). We will watch the boulders of ice falling from a height of 50-60 meters with the clatter. Optionally we can also sail closer to the glacier with the ship, or even go for hiking on Perito Moreno. Coming back to El Calafate.

Day 5
Departure to the Chilean Patagonia. We take a comfortable bus to Puerto Natales (about 6 hours on the way) going through an incredible scenery. After lunch, we will make final preparations for our trekking through the W route in the Torres del Paine Park. Night in the hotel.

Day 6
We take the bus to Torres del Paine National Park (3 hours on the way). Upon arrival we get all the necessary permissions and start our trek towards the place where we are going to spend the first night - the Torre Central campsite. Here we leave all our equipment, take the most necessary things and departure to the Torres peaks, which the park is named after. The track takes 4,5 hours one direction at a calm pace with stops. Coming back to camping, overnight.

Day 7
Today we will walk along the incredible Lake Nordenskjold to the central part of the route - Francais and Cuernos camping sites, where we will spend the night. The track takes about five hours.

Day 8
Perhaps the most beautiful day of trekking. In the morning we will go up to the Italiano campsite (around 1,5 hours), where we leave all heavy belongings before our next ascent. Afterwards we will walk to French valley and up to Britannica Mirador (up to three hours walking) where we will see a 360 degrees view on surrounding mountains. From here we go down at a calm pace (about 5 hours) to the popular shelter of the national park - Paine Grande, which is located on the shores of Lake Pehoe.

Day 9
In the morning we departure in the direction of Refugio Grey campsite (3,5 hours) to see the majestic glacier which has the same name. Not far from the glacier, we officially finish writing the letter W, thus passing one of the most impressive trekking routes of the world. Night in Refugio Grey (or coming back to Paine Grande).

Day 10
At sunrise we will cross Pehoe Lake on a catamaran, moving towards Pudeto wharf (an hour on the way). From there, we take a bus or private transport to the place with an incredible view on the entire Torres del Paine massif (one hour on the way). We enjoy the panorama and go on a short hike to the nearest pass (1-2 hours). We spend the night in a hotel on the shores of the Lake Pehoe.

Day 11
After admiring the majestic mountains of the Chilean Patagonia, we come back by bus to Puerto Natales (1,5 hours), from where we take a bus to Punta Arenas city (3 hours), which is located on the shores of the Strait of Magellan. Overnight in Punta Arenas in a hotel or guesthouse.

Day 12-13
The next two days we will spend in Punta Arenas. The weather here is often unpredictable, so we will stay in the city for two days, to have more chances to meet sea lions and Magellanic penguins. We will also walk around the old city center and try delicious seafood in one of the family cafes in the local market. At the end of the second day we come back to Puerto Natales (3 hours) with a comfortable bus.

Day 14
In the morning we take the bus to El Calafate (6 hours) and depart back to Buenos Aires. Flight back home.

Trip leader - Bogdan Skaskiv
In love with the mountains since he was a child, Bogdan is sure that it is there that we discover our best qualities. He lived in Warsaw, Minsk and Buenos Aires, working in international IT companies. He is fond of photography, skiing and hiking. Bogdan is an expert in South America.

Day 1
We arrive in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, and check into a hotel. This is the second highest capital in the world, which is located at an altitude of 2850 meters above sea level. The city is surrounded by picturesque mountains. This must be seen from above! We ride the TeleferiQo cable car to climb to the top of the active Pichincha volcano to an altitude of 3945 meters above sea level. The views are incredible! We see the entire city surrounded by mountains and jungle.
We get down to the city and go to a traditional restaurant for dinner. Ecuadorians love all kinds of grilled meats, fried green bananas, cassava roots, potatoes and corn. You can also try one unusual local delicacy qui - a grilled guinea pig.

Day 2
In the morning we take a bus to the town of Otavalo (about 2 hours on the way). On the way we will stop at the center of the planet, literally! This is the place where equator crosses Ecuador - the exact place is marked with lines on the asphalt. Nearby is the Museum of the Peoples of Ecuador, where we can learn more about the dozens of nationalities that inhabit the country.
We reach Otavalo and get acquainted with one of the peoples of the country in reality. Locals speak their own language and wear unusual traditional clothes - white blouses with a cape, large beads and dark scarves on their heads. The main local attraction is the colorful bazaar, one of the largest on the continent. We will watch bright national clothes and other traditional handmade textiles. Jewelry lovers will be delighted with the abundance of silver earrings and rings. In the evening we return to Quito.

Day 3-4
In the morning we take a bus to Banos (3.5 hours on the way) - a town in the valley near the active volcano Tungurahua. We check into a hotel and go to the Casa del Arbol mountain. Here we will have a very unusual adventure - the famous swing over the precipice! Swing harder, like in childhood - and the ground disappears under your feet and a sharp precipice opens. Wild jungles of bright green color float far below, to be exact 2660 meters under your feet!

Day 5-8
In the morning we go by bus to the town of Tena (3.5 hours on the way). Here we will raft on the Napo river, which the locals call Khatunyaku. This turbulent river is in a hurry to bring its waters to the great Amazon - the largest river on the planet! We go deeper into the Amazon jungle and after about 5 hours arrive at Limoncocha National Park. We check into simple wooden houses.

Next morning we go boating on the river. This is the most impassable jungle of our world! Local tribes have long moved only on boats here. Huge lazy caimans are passing us by. In the jungle you can hear birds singing and see many of them - this park is considered a paradise for lovers of exotic birds. Our guides to these wilderness will be colorful people from the Quechua tribe. They will tell a lot of interesting things about the life of their grandmothers, and how the reality around them has changed in the past few decades.

Next day we walk to the lake. We go to Coca, from there fly to Quito and check into a guesthouse.

Day 9-10
Flight to Lima, the capital of Peru, check into a hotel. We walk on the beach along the ocean, enjoying endless views and fresh breeze. Then we go to the Barranco area to watch the colonial Spanish buildings. Now this is the prestigious area, but it was not safe to live here before. Interesting people will show us the most unusual sites in this area - artists who covered the local houses with bright graffiti.

We leave for the poor district on the outskirts of the city to see the views of Lima from a famous viewing deck. Then, we will visit one of the local families who will teach us to make the most popular local dish - ceviche. Yes, ceviche is made in different countries, but the Peruvian version is very unusual!

Day 11
In the morning we fly to Cusco, the Inca capital from the 13th to the 16th century, located at an altitude of 3300 meters above sea level! We walk in the city and immediately notice that the high foundations of the local houses are very different from the buildings themselves. The Spanish colonialists who came here in the 16th century found that the foundations of the ancient Inca buildings were very strong and began to build their houses on top of them. The same fate befell the main Incan temple Coricancha, dedicated to the god of the sun. On its foundation in the 17th century, the Spaniards built the Cathedral of Santa Domingo.

We take a bus to Pisac (about 1 hour on the way) traveling through the sacred valley of the Incas - we rise to an altitude of 3,500 meters, then we go down and go up again. We walk on the ruins of the Inca fortress, which is located on the mountain terraces. Mountain views here are wonderful! We look at the sacred stone, to which, according to the beliefs of the Incas, the sun was previously tied.

Walk to the Maras salt mines. The views here are a photographer's dream! The entire slope is covered with small fenced off pools in which salt was mined during the times of the Inca Empire. For the night we go to the city of Olataytambo.

Day 12-13
In the morning we go to see the ruins near the city. In the 15th century, the royal city of the ninth Inca ruler Pachacuti was located here. Walk between all that remains of the royal palace and courtyards of local residents, we look at the agricultural terraces and granaries. By train we go to Agua Calientes (approximately 2 hours on the way) through the sacred valley of the Incas. We check into the guesthouse and relax in the hot springs.

In the morning we travel to Machu Picchu - the world famous city, the imperial residence of the Inca kings of the 15th century. It existed for less than a hundred years - all the inhabitants of Machu Picchu left after the Spaniards conquered these lands ... For more than 400 years, it was abandoned until in 1911 the pilots accidentally saw the ruins from an airplane. We walk down on the terraces to the ruins of the city, enjoying the views of the mountains covered with greenery from all sides. Below you can see the river. Admire these ruins of palaces and temples, and the famous laying of these structures.

Day 13-15
Still impressed, we take the train to Olhaytaytambo (2 hours on the way), and from there in about 2 hours we return to Cusco by bus and check into a hotel.

With a local guide we walk in the center of Cusco, explore the secret streets and go to the colorful bazaar. We learn how locals have been salting and drying meat since the times of the Incas, and even drying potatoes. Finally, we will try exotic fruits on the market. And if the avocado and mango already surprise no one, then how about pitahaya, pepino and lucuma?

Take the afternoon to explore the souvenir shops to see silverware, famous Peruvian cocoa beans and the local alcoholic drink Pisco made from grapes.

Next morning we fly back home.

Tour guide - Iryna Galiuk
Iryna works in an organization that fights climate change, and fell in love with South America when visited Colombia for a conference. She has been researching Latin-American culture, studying Spanish and dancing salsa ever since! Iryna is an expert on Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.

Day 1-2
We arrive in Lima, the capital of Peru, and check into a hotel. After some rest we begin our exploration of the city with a walk on the promenade along the Pacific Ocean. Freshened after the breeze, we are going to the vibrant Barranco district, which is famous for its old Spanish houses and equally bright modern graffiti. It is known as the bohemian center of the city. Our guides here will be local artists who work here.

We go to the Cherios district on the outskirts of the city. Here we will visit a local family who will teach us to cook the most popular Peruvian dish - ceviche. They cook it in different countries, but the local version is unlike any other! We will walk to the observation deck to admire the views of Lima and the endless ocean. Nothing, but thousands of kilometers of water ahead, right up to Australia!

Day 3
In the morning we fly to Cusco. This city at an altitude of 3300 meters above sea level was the capital of the Incas Empore from the 13th century. Without a doubt this is the most amazing city in the country! Walk in the cobbled streets between the old houses that the Spanish colonialists built on the foundations of the Inca buildings. We reach the Cathedral of Santa Domingo, built in the 17th century. Earlier this place was the main temple of the Inca Coricancha, dedicated to the god of the sun ...

We take a bus to Pisac villages (about 1 hour on the way) passing through the sacred valley of the Incas, which was the center of their civilization. And all thanks to the unique local climate and soils, which allowed to grow the best corn and vegetables. Did we mention local landscapes? Very beautiful! We walk along the ruins of the fortress and visit the sacred stone, to which, according to the beliefs of the Incas, the sun was tied.

Walk further to the Maras salt mines, a photographer's dream! The entire mountainside is covered with small fenced off pools in which salt has been mined for more than seven hundred years. A very unusual sight! In the evening we go to the town of Ollantaytambo and check into a hotel.

Day 4-5
In the morning we go to see the ruins near the city. In the 15th century, the royal city of the ninth Inca ruler Pachacuti was located here. Walk between all that remains of the royal palace and courtyards of local residents, we look at the agricultural terraces and granaries. By train we go to Agua Calientes (approximately 2 hours on the way) through the sacred valley of the Incas. We check into the guesthouse and relax in the hot springs.

In the morning we travel to Machu Picchu - the world famous city, the imperial residence of the Inca kings of the 15th century. It existed for less than a hundred years - all the inhabitants of Machu Picchu left after the Spaniards conquered these lands ... For more than 400 years, it was abandoned until in 1911 the pilots accidentally saw the ruins from an airplane. We walk down on the terraces to the ruins of the city, enjoying the views of the mountains covered with greenery from all sides. Below you can see the river. Admire these ruins of palaces and temples, and the famous laying of these structures.

Still impressed, we take the train to Olhaytaytambo (2 hours on the way), and from there in about 2 hours we return to Cusco by bus and check into a hotel.

Day 6
With a local guide we walk in the center of Cusco, explore the secret streets and go to the colorful bazaar. We learn how locals have been salting and drying meat since the times of the Incas, and even drying potatoes. Finally, we will try exotic fruits on the market. And if the avocado and mango already surprise no one, then how about pitahaya, pepino and lucuma?

Take the afternoon to explore the souvenir shops to see or buy silverware and the famous Peruvian cocoa beans. If we have not yet tried the famous Peruvian Lomo Saltado - Cusco is the place! Tender soy-marinated beef is stir fried with onions, tomatoes and spices and served with a bit of rice and potatoes. Did you know that Peruvian cuisine is known as the best on the continent?

In the evening we take a night bus to Puno.

Day 7
We arrive in Puno, a small town near Lake Titicaca at an altitude of 3812 meters above sea level. This is the highest mountain lake in the world, used by ships! We leave for the island of Takil, where less than 2 thousand people live in tiny villages. There are no roads and motor vehicles are prohibited. The locals wear unusual costumes with white shirts, and the local men are known not only as first-class fishermen, but also skilled weavers. The fabrics and clothing that are made here are valued throughout the country.

On boats we head to another part of the lake, where the unique floating islands of the Uros tribe are located. These small, mobile islands were made of reeds that grow on the shores of Titicaca. Legend has it that the Uros fled from the mainland from the persecution of the Incan king and were forced to build their homes on the water. Usually on an island measuring 15 by 15 meters there are several simple huts in which one family lives. We will see an unusual way of life and find out how these people of the lake get food. In the evening we return to Puno, and spend the night in the hotel.

Day 8-10
In the morning we take a bus to Chivay (about 5 hours on the way). We have lunch and go to rest in the hot springs. Next morning, we take a public bus to Cabanaconde (2 hours on the way), a village with stunning views of the Colca Canyon. It is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the USA! Mostly the height of these rocks reaches 1 kilometer! On the way we will stop at the most beautiful viewing decks.

We descend to the river to the oasis Sangalo (about 3 hours). The views here are breathtaking! We will spend the night in simple houses by the river. This is our favorite spot for stargazing ... In the morning we return to Cabanaconde, and then take the bus to the city of Arequipa (approximately 7 hours on the way). There we check into a guesthouse.

Day 11-13
The second largest city in Peru, Arequipa is known as the "white city". Houses here are built from the stones of a light, almost white color. We will explore the streets of elegant colonial architecture, and admire the views of the three volcanoes - Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu. Next morning, we will have an unusual adventure - rafting on the river Chile (II-III class of difficulty, lasting up to 3 hours). We will be guided and trained by a local experienced instructor. Rafting is suitable for beginners, it is not difficult. Vivid impressions guaranteed!

We rest and go to discover the 16th century Santa Catalina monastery. Here every centimeter breathes with antiquity, and it seems that we did not just enter ancient buildings, but moved back several centuries in time. Next day we go by bus to the city of Nazca (approximately 8 hours on the way) and check into the guesthouse.

In the morning we will go to the observation deck to look at the most mysterious giant images in the world! The best scientists break their heads trying to understand what the ancient Nazca people meant when they made these huge images of animals, birds and figures on their field.... Those who wish can fly a helicopter over these fields to see everything!

Next morning we take a bus to Huacachina, an oasis on the edge of the Atacama desert (approximately 3 hours on the way). We walk along the endless sand dunes. Those interested can go down on the sand boards, or learn to ride sand buggies. We watch the sunset and then go to Paracas for the night (1 hour on the way).

Day 14-15
On a motorboat we visit the islands of Ballestas (2 hours). Here we will see seals, lions, pelicans, Humboldt penguins and many other animals. Those who wish can go on a bike ride through the Paracas National Park.

In the morning we take a bus to Lima (4 hours on the way), and from there we fly to Iquitos, the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon. We spend the night in the guesthouse.

Day 16-19
Transfer by private transport to the shores of the Amazon, checking into a lodge. We will visit settlements of the indigenous tribes of Yagua, walk through the jungle of the Pacaya-Samiria National Park, meeting with typical inhabitants of the local forests: anacondas, sloths, parrots, toucans, alligators, turtles, caimans.

We will also do piranha fishing, see giant trees, take canoe trips and enjoy sunsets on the largest river in the world.

On the 18th day we will fly back to Lima and check into the hostel. On the last day we fly back home.

Tour guide - Irina Galiuk
Iryna works in an organization that fights climate change, and fell in love with South America when visited Colombia for a conference. She has been researching Latin-American culture, studying Spanish and dancing salsa ever since! Iryna is an expert on Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.

Day 1-2
Arrival in Lima, the capital of Peru. Checking into a hotel. We will visit the most prominent places from Miraflores to Plaza de Armas, walk along the ocean and streets of Barranco. Master class on salsa, the most popular Latin-American dance.

Day 3
Morning flight from Lima to Cusco, the capital of ancient Incas (altitude 3,300 m above sea level). On a rented vehicle, we'll go 50 km to the Incas agricultural terraces of Moray, from where we'll take a walk to the salt mines of Maras. Return back to Cusco for the night.

Day 4
Bus trip to Aguas Calientes (about 6 hours) through the holy valley of the Incas and an easy walk (2 hours) through the jungle with views to the Andes heights. Checking into a guesthouse, visiting the city, possible bathing in thermal springs.
Day 5
Visit to Machu Picchu, the secret city of the Incas of the XV century (2,450 m above sea level). After a tour to the ruins of the city, we'll go back, this time by a comfortable train (up to 2 hours travel). The final train station is Ollantaytambo. Checking into a hotel.
Day 6
A tour around archaeological sites near Ollantaytambo, trip to Cusco in taxi "colectivo" (about 1 hour). Walking around the city, visiting the local market and souvenir shops. Free time before departure to Puno.

Day 7
We arrive in Puno, a small town near Lake Titicaca at an altitude of 3812 meters above sea level. This is the highest mountain lake in the world, used by ships! We leave for the island of Takil, where less than 2 thousand people live in tiny villages. There are no roads and motor vehicles are prohibited. The locals wear unusual costumes with white shirts, and the local men are known not only as first-class fishermen, but also skilled weavers. The fabrics and clothing that are made here are valued throughout the country. On boats we head to another part of the lake, where the unique floating islands of the Uros tribe are located. These small, mobile islands were made of reeds that grow on the shores of Titicaca. Legend has it that the Uros fled from the mainland from the persecution of the Incan king and were forced to build their homes on the water. Usually on an island measuring 15 by 15 meters there are several simple huts in which one family lives. We will see an unusual way of life and find out how these people of the lake get food. In the evening we return to Puno, and spend the night in the hotel.

Day 8
Morning bus trip to Chivay (about 5.5 hours). We'll stop at the Patapampa observation deck at an altitude of 4,910 m, as well as near the lagoon, where lots of mountain birds gather. From Chiva, we'll move by public transport to Cabanaconde (2 hours), the village with the best views over the Colca Canyon. Checking into a guesthouse.

Day 9-10
Hiking along the canyon of Colca (twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the USA) to the Oasis Sangalle (about 4 hours). Staying for the night in lodge with basic amenities, possibly, without electricity. Next day - return to Cabanaconde, bus to Arequipa (about 7 hours). Night in the guesthouse.

Day 11
Study of the colonial architecture of Arequipa, surrounded by volcanoes Misti, Chachani, Pichu-Pichu. Night in guesthouse.

Day 12
Rafting on the river Chili (II-III grade of difficulty, up to 3 hours). After the raft - transfer by a comfortable bus to the ocean coast (about 8 hours). Late check-ing into a guesthouse in Nazca city.

Day 13
We will see unique images of the ancient Nazca culture and take a bus to Huacachina (3 hours), an oasis on the edge of the Atacama desert. Sandboarding and buggy riding in the dunes. After sunset, we'll go to Paracas to stay for the night (1 hour). Night in the guesthouse.

Day 14
A motor boat trip to the Ballestas Islands (2 hours), where we will see seals and sea lions, pelicans, Humboldt penguins and many other birds. Those interested can go for a bike ride around Paracas National Park.

Day 15
Morning bus to Lima (4 hours on the way). Flight back home.

Day 1-2
Arrival in Lima, the capital of Peru. Checking into a hotel. We will visit the most prominent places from Miraflores to Plaza de Armas, walk along the ocean and streets of Barranco. Master class on salsa, the most popular Latin-American dance.

Day 3
Morning flight from Lima to Cusco, the capital of ancient Incas (altitude 3,300 m above sea level). On a rented vehicle, we'll go 50 km to the Incas agricultural terraces of Moray, from where we'll take a walk to the salt mines of Maras. Return back to Cusco for the night.

Day 4
Bus trip to Aguas Calientes (about 6 hours) through the holy valley of the Incas and an easy walk (2 hours) through the jungle with views to the Andes heights. Checking into a guesthouse, visiting the city, possible bathing in thermal springs.

Day 5
Visit to Machu Picchu, the secret city of the Incas of the XV century (2,450 m above sea level). After a tour to the ruins of the city, we'll go back, this time by a comfortable train (up to 2 hours travel). The final train station is Ollantaytambo. Checking into a hotel.

Day 6
A tour around archaeological sites near Ollantaytambo, walking around the city, visiting the local market and souvenir shops. Bus ot taxi "colectivo" ride to Cusco (1 hour), checking into a hotel.

Day 7
Flight back home.

ITINERARY

Day 1
Arrival in Quito. Checking into a hotel. We explore the city, sample local cuisine.

Day 2
Morning departure to the Galapagos Islands, known for the unique combination of flora and fauna of the tropical and Antarctic belts. Checking into a hotel in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Visiting Charles Darwin Research Station, walk around the island. We will meet giant turtles, iguanas, seals and, possibly, even pink flamingos.

Day 3
Morning departure to one of the best beaches of the Galapagos Islands, Tortuga Bay, those interested can snorkel. After dinner, we explore the island on a rented transport.

Day 4
Trip to Isabela island on a motorboat (about 2.5 hours). Bicycle ride to the famous natural monuments, snorkeling or swimming in a cozy bay with sea lions and iguanas. Night in a hotel.

Day 5
Exploring the Isabela Island. We plan a walk to the Sierra Negra volcano (about 5 hours), the crater of which is the second largest in the world! After lunch, kayaking near Puerto Villamil. From the islands of Isabela and Santa Cruz, you can take a day or half-day long diving tours.

Day 6
Morning check-out from the hotel, trip to Santa Cruz Island, and from there to Baltra Island - to the airport (about 3.5 hours in total). Flight to Quito. After lunch – checking into a guesthouse, a walk around the city and a cable car ride to the observation deck.

Day 7
A public bus journey (2 hours) to the town of Otavalo, to one of the largest bazaars in South America, flooded with unique textiles, clothes, food and souvenirs. Return to Quito.

Day 8
Bus transfer (3.5 hours) to Banos - a town in the valley near the active volcano Tungurahua. After checking into a hotel - a visit to Casa del Arbol with the famous swings above the abyss at the height of 2,660 m.

Day 9
We'll "fly" over the rivers and gorges on the zip-line, and then take a bicycle tour to the waterfall of Pailon del Diablo. In the evening - bathing in thermal pools.

Day 10-13
Bus transfer to the town of Tena (3.5 hours), meeting with a guide from the local tribe of Quechua. Visiting villages and studying the life of the Quechua tribes, master classes on making chocolate and accessories, boat trips by the river Napo, night and daytime jungle walks. We will see how a shaman holds the Ayahuasca ceremony and may even join him. We also plan rafting down the Jatunyacu River. Nights in bungalows with basic amenities. Return by bus to Quito (5 hours). Check-in at the guesthouse.

Day 14-15
Flight to Lima, the capital of Peru. Checking into a hotel. We will visit the most prominent places from Miraflores to Plaza de Armas, walk along the ocean and streets of Barranco. Master class on salsa, the most popular Latin-American dance.

Day 16
Morning flight from Lima to Cusco, the capital of ancient Incas (altitude 3,300 m above sea level). On a rented vehicle, we'll go 50 km to the Incas agricultural terraces of Moray, from where we'll take a walk to the salt mines of Maras. Return back to Cusco for the night.

Day 17
Bus trip to Aguas Calientes (about 6 hours) through the holy valley of the Incas and an easy walk (2 hours) through the jungle with views to the Andes heights. Checking into a guesthouse, visiting the city, possible bathing in thermal springs.

Day 18
Visit to Machu Picchu, the secret city of the Incas of the XV century (2,450 m above sea level). After a tour to the ruins of the city, we'll go back, this time by a comfortable train (up to 2 hours travel). The final train station is Ollantaytambo. Checking into a hotel.

Day 19
A tour around archaeological sites near Ollantaytambo, trip to Cusco in taxi "colectivo" (about 1 hour). Walking around the city, visiting the local market and souvenir shops. Free time before departure to Puno.

Day 20
A night trip (about 7 hours) by a comfortable bus to Puno, located near Lake Titicaca (3,812 m). In some places, the heights will exceed 4,000 m. Visit to the island of Taquile, floating islands of the Uros tribe. Return to Puno in the evening, night in the guesthouse.

Day 21
Morning bus trip to Chivay (about 5.5 hours). We'll stop at the Patapampa observation deck at an altitude of 4,910 m, as well as near the lagoon, where lots of mountain birds gather. From Chiva, we'll move by public transport to Cabanaconde (2 hours), the village with the best views over the Colca Canyon. Checking into a guesthouse.

Day 22-23
Hiking along the canyon of Colca (twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the USA) to the Oasis Sangalle (about 4 hours). Staying for the night in lodge with basic amenities, possibly, without electricity. Next day - return to Cabanaconde, bus to Arequipa (about 7 hours). Night in the guesthouse.

Day 24
Study of the colonial architecture of Arequipa, surrounded by volcanoes Misti, Chachani, Pichu-Pichu. Night in guesthouse.

Day 25
Rafting on the river Chili (II-III grade of difficulty, up to 3 hours). After the raft - transfer by a comfortable bus to the ocean coast (about 8 hours). Late check-ing into a guesthouse in Nazca city.

Day 26
We will see unique images of the ancient Nazca culture and take a bus to Huacachina (3 hours), an oasis on the edge of the Atacama desert. Sandboarding and buggy riding in the dunes. After sunset, we'll go to Paracas to stay for the night (1 hour). Night in the guesthouse.

Day 27
A motor boat trip to the Ballestas Islands (2 hours), where we will see seals and sea lions, pelicans, Humboldt penguins and many other birds. Those interested can go for a bike ride around Paracas National Park.

Day 28
Morning bus to Lima (4 hours on the way). Flight back home.

Tour guide - Iryna Galiuk
Iryna works in an organization that fights climate change, and fell in love with South America when visited Colombia for a conference. She has been researching Latin-American culture, studying Spanish and dancing salsa ever since! Iryna is an expert on Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.

ITINERARY

Day 1
Flight to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Checking into a hotel. We explore the city, sample local cuisine.

Day 2
Morning departure to the Galapagos Islands, known for the unique combination of flora and fauna of the tropical and Antarctic belts. Checking into a hotel in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Visiting Charles Darwin Research Station, walk around the island. We will meet giant turtles, iguanas, seals and, possibly, even pink flamingos.

Day 3
Morning departure to one of the best beaches of the Galapagos Islands, Tortuga Bay, those interested can snorkel. After dinner, we explore the island on a rented transport.

Day 4
Trip to Isabela island on a motorboat (about 2.5 hours). Bicycle ride to the famous natural monuments, snorkeling or swimming in a cozy bay with sea lions and iguanas. Night in a hotel.

Day 5
Exploring the Isabela Island. We plan a walk to the Sierra Negra volcano (about 5 hours), the crater of which is the second largest in the world! After lunch, kayaking near Puerto Villamil. From the islands of Isabela and Santa Cruz, you can take a day or half-day long diving tours.

Day 6
Morning check-out from the hotel, trip to Santa Cruz Island, and from there to Baltra Island - to the airport (about 3.5 hours in total). Flight to Quito. After lunch – checking into a guesthouse, a walk around the city and a cable car ride to the observation deck.

Day 7
A public bus journey (2 hours) to the town of Otavalo, to one of the largest bazaars in South America, flooded with unique textiles, clothes, food and souvenirs. Return to Quito.

Day 8
Bus transfer (3.5 hours) to Banos - a town in the valley near the active volcano Tungurahua. After checking into a hotel - a visit to Casa del Arbol with the famous swings above the abyss at the height of 2,660 m.

Day 9
We'll "fly" over the rivers and gorges on the zip-line, and then take a bicycle tour to the waterfall of Pailon del Diablo. In the evening - bathing in thermal pools.

Day 10-13
Bus transfer to the town of Tena (3.5 hours), meeting with a guide from the local tribe of Quechua. Visiting villages and studying the life of the Quechua tribes, master classes on making chocolate and accessories, boat trips by the river Napo, night and daytime jungle walks. We will see how a shaman holds the Ayahuasca ceremony and may even join him. We also plan rafting down the Jatunyacu River. Nights in bungalows with basic amenities. Return by bus to Quito (5 hours). Check-in at the guesthouse.

Day 14-15
Flight to Lima, the capital of Peru. Checking into a hotel. We will visit the most prominent places from Miraflores to Plaza de Armas, walk along the ocean and streets of Barranco. Master class on salsa, the most popular Latin-American dance.

Day 16
Morning flight from Lima to Cusco, the capital of ancient Incas (altitude 3,300 m above sea level). On a rented vehicle, we'll go 50 km to the Incas agricultural terraces of Moray, from where we'll take a walk to the salt mines of Maras. Return back to Cusco for the night.

Day 17
Bus trip to Aguas Calientes (about 6 hours) through the holy valley of the Incas and an easy walk (2 hours) through the jungle with views to the Andes heights. Checking into a guesthouse, visiting the city, possible bathing in thermal springs.

Day 18
Visit to Machu Picchu, the secret city of the Incas of the XV century (2,450 m above sea level). After a tour to the ruins of the city, we'll go back, this time by a comfortable train (up to 2 hours travel). The final train station is Ollantaytambo. Checking into a hotel.

Day 19
A tour around archaeological sites near Ollantaytambo, trip to Cusco.

Day 20
Flight back home.


Tour guide - Iryna Galiuk
Iryna works in an organization that fights climate change, and fell in love with South America when visited Colombia for a conference. She has been researching Latin-American culture, studying Spanish and dancing salsa ever since! Iryna is an expert on Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.

ITINERARY

Day 1-2
We arrive in Havana and check into a home hotel. We rest, talk to our friendly hosts and begin to get acquainted with Cuban cuisine. In the morning we go for a walk in old Havana. This is the oldest quarter of the city, built in 1519 by the Spanish colonialists. Nothing remains since that time, as in 1555 French pirates captured and burned Havana. But buildings that are several hundred years old are not uncommon in the Cuban capital!

We will walk along the streets between colorful houses, and then rent bright retro cars and drive along the picturesque seafront. We will park at the Capitol and explore this grand palace where the government of the country was located before the revolution of 1959.

Last but not least - tasting of local coffee, rum and mojito. These drinks flow like water in every cafe and bar! And lots of music - from performances in every cafe to improvised concerts of street musicians. We will try to learn a few steps of the most popular local dances - bachata and salsa. Cubans are knows as the best dancers, but they are also great dance teachers! Fans of Ernest Hemingway will be happy to visit his favourite places in Havana.


Day 3-4
In the morning we go to the town of Vinales (about three hours by rented transport). It is located near the valley of the same name, which is considered the most picturesque place of the island and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Here karst rocks rise above the bright fields and jungles, and the locals in the villages grow tobacco, keep cattle and lead a very traditional life, preserving their traditions and culture. We will enjoy a traditional dinner of local fish and lobsters. Delicious!

We will visit the tobacco plantations and cigar factory and see all stages of production of the world famous Cuban cigars. You can also try to roll your own cigar!

Next day we explore the valley, visiting small traditional villages and farms. This is very different, non-touristic Cuba, where life flows slowly, like a local river

Day 5
After breakfast we visit Santo Tomas cave, the largest cave system on the island and the second largest in the entire American continent. Its length exceeds 45 kilometers! The tour with the local guide lasts for an hour and a half, we will see bizarre stalactites and stalagmites, halls hidden in the cave at various levels and minerals.

We then go to Сayo Jutias (one and a half hours on the way). This is a small Caribbean island, without hotels and tourist infrastructure. It boasts incredible beauty of wild beaches with white sand, clear water and coconut palm trees. In crystal clear turquoise water you can see a lot of starfish and exotic fish. There are no tourists here. We will be alone in this pristine paradise!

Day 6
In the morning we travel to the city of Trinidad (6 hours on the way). It is known as an open-air museum. It is older than Havana - founded by the Spaniards back in 1514. We walk through the narrow paved streets, marvel at the old colonial buildings on the main square, and colorful houses with tiles. All this is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After lunch you can appreciate local souvenir shops, and art galleries, visit museums, take a salsa or merengue lesson, or visit the nearby beach.

In the evening, we will listen to traditional music and try to learn a few dance steps from energetic Cubans.

Day 5
Exploring the Isabela Island. We plan a walk to the Sierra Negra volcano (about 5 hours), the crater of which is the second largest in the world! After lunch, kayaking near Puerto Villamil. From the islands of Isabela and Santa Cruz, you can take a day or half-day long diving tours.

Day 6
Morning check-out from the hotel, trip to Santa Cruz Island, and from there to Baltra Island - to the airport (about 3.5 hours in total). Flight to Quito. After lunch – checking into a guesthouse, a walk around the city and a cable car ride to the observation deck.

Day 7
We leave for the city of Santa Clara (3 hours by rented transport) and check into a hotel. This city in the very center of Cuba is a place of real pilgrimage for admirers of the famous revolutionary Ernesto Che Guevara and history lovers. At the end of 1958, it was in Santa Clara that the final battle of the Cuban revolution took place. Fulgencio Batista who ruled the country, fled the country hours after the battle.

The main attraction of the city is the memorial at the burial place of Che and a museum dedicated to his life. Needless to say, many places throughout the city are also dedicated to the famous revolutionary. For example, we will enjoy coffee in the colorful cafe-museum of Che.

Day 8
We travel to Havana (approximately 4 hours on the way) stopping in the town of Varadero, where the country's most popular beach is located. 20 kilometers of the purest white sand and turquoise water! There is everything for a perfect holiday - cozy cafes and restaurants, infrastructure for tourists, and quiet corners where vacationers almost never wander.

Photos from these places do not lie. The sand is really this white. The water is completely transparent. The sky is clear. You can look at this pristine beauty and breathe in the fresh sea air forever! You can stay in this paradise for a few days, or continue to the airport and fly home.

Be sure - you will definitely want to come back here again!

Tour guide - Sofia Vovk

Sofia worked as the program director of the TV channel, until one day she went on vacation to Madagascar. Then she realized that she wants to change her life dramatically and explore the world. Sofia switched to freelancing, traveled a lot and finally settled in Central America. Expert on Mexico, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Honduras.

ITINERARY

Day 1-2
We arrive in Havana and check into a home hotel. We rest, talk to our friendly hosts and begin to get acquainted with Cuban cuisine. In the morning we go for a walk in old Havana. This is the oldest quarter of the city, built in 1519 by the Spanish colonialists. Nothing remains since that time, as in 1555 French pirates captured and burned Havana. But buildings that are several hundred years old are not uncommon in the Cuban capital!

We will walk along the streets between colorful houses, and then rent bright retro cars and drive along the picturesque seafront. We will park at the Capitol and explore this grand palace where the government of the country was located before the revolution of 1959.

Last but not least - tasting of local coffee, rum and mojito. These drinks flow like water in every cafe and bar! And lots of music - from performances in every cafe to improvised concerts of street musicians. We will try to learn a few steps of the most popular local dances - bachata and salsa. Cubans are knows as the best dancers, but they are also great dance teachers! Fans of Ernest Hemingway will be happy to visit his favourite places in Havana.


Day 3-4
In the morning we go to the town of Vinales (about three hours by rented transport). It is located near the valley of the same name, which is considered the most picturesque place of the island and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Here karst rocks rise above the bright fields and jungles, and the locals in the villages grow tobacco, keep cattle and lead a very traditional life, preserving their traditions and culture. We will enjoy a traditional dinner of local fish and lobsters. Delicious!

We will visit the tobacco plantations and cigar factory and see all stages of production of the world famous Cuban cigars. You can also try to roll your own cigar!

Next day we explore the valley, visiting small traditional villages and farms. This is very different, non-touristic Cuba, where life flows slowly, like a local river

Day 5
After breakfast we visit Santo Tomas cave, the largest cave system on the island and the second largest in the entire American continent. Its length exceeds 45 kilometers! The tour with the local guide lasts for an hour and a half, we will see bizarre stalactites and stalagmites, halls hidden in the cave at various levels and minerals.

We then go to Сayo Jutias (one and a half hours on the way). This is a small Caribbean island, without hotels and tourist infrastructure. It boasts incredible beauty of wild beaches with white sand, clear water and coconut palm trees. In crystal clear turquoise water you can see a lot of starfish and exotic fish. There are no tourists here. We will be alone in this pristine paradise!

Day 6
In the morning we travel to the city of Trinidad (6 hours on the way). It is known as an open-air museum. It is older than Havana - founded by the Spaniards back in 1514. We walk through the narrow paved streets, marvel at the old colonial buildings on the main square, and colorful houses with tiles. All this is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After lunch you can appreciate local souvenir shops, and art galleries, visit museums, take a salsa or merengue lesson, or visit the nearby beach.

In the evening, we will listen to traditional music and try to learn a few dance steps from energetic Cubans.

Day 5
Exploring the Isabela Island. We plan a walk to the Sierra Negra volcano (about 5 hours), the crater of which is the second largest in the world! After lunch, kayaking near Puerto Villamil. From the islands of Isabela and Santa Cruz, you can take a day or half-day long diving tours.

Day 6
Morning check-out from the hotel, trip to Santa Cruz Island, and from there to Baltra Island - to the airport (about 3.5 hours in total). Flight to Quito. After lunch – checking into a guesthouse, a walk around the city and a cable car ride to the observation deck.

Day 7
We leave for the city of Santa Clara (3 hours by rented transport) and check into a hotel. This city in the very center of Cuba is a place of real pilgrimage for admirers of the famous revolutionary Ernesto Che Guevara and history lovers. At the end of 1958, it was in Santa Clara that the final battle of the Cuban revolution took place. Fulgencio Batista who ruled the country, fled the country hours after the battle.

The main attraction of the city is the memorial at the burial place of Che and a museum dedicated to his life. Needless to say, many places throughout the city are also dedicated to the famous revolutionary. For example, we will enjoy coffee in the colorful cafe-museum of Che.

Day 8
We travel to Havana (approximately 4 hours on the way) stopping in the town of Varadero, where the country's most popular beach is located. 20 kilometers of the purest white sand and turquoise water! There is everything for a perfect holiday - cozy cafes and restaurants, infrastructure for tourists, and quiet corners where vacationers almost never wander.

Photos from these places do not lie. The sand is really this white. The water is completely transparent. The sky is clear. You can look at this pristine beauty and breathe in the fresh sea air forever! After a few hours, we continue our journey to Havana and check into a homestay hotel. Free time. You can visit local museums, art galleries or go shopping.

Day 9-10
Flight to Cancun (1.5 hours), bus (3 hours) to the colonial town of Valladolid. We check into a hotel and walk in the streets with colorful houses. In the evening, we will watch an open-air light show on the facade of an old monastery.

In the morning we dive into the history of Mexico before Columbus and visit the ancient city of Chichen Itza - one of the seven new wonders of the world! The famous pyramid of Kukulkan is located here. Scientists believe that this grand pyramid with a height of 24 meters served not only as a temple, but also as a calendar.

365 steps divided into 18 sections lead to the top of the pyramid - the Mayans had 18 months in a year. A small temple with four entrances stands at the top of the pyramid. Scientists believe that it was here that young men from noble families were offered as sacrifices to Kukulkan. We will learn more about the Mayan calendar, Kukulkan and understand why so many architectural styles are mixed in this ancient city.

But the main attraction of Yucatan is the cenotes! Imagine a limestone cave with the collapsed arch. A huge open cave is filled with light and the purest water. This is a paradise for those who like to explore the underwater world and swim with exotic fish. We will enjoy several cenotes, and visit a couple of sacred ones, where ancient Maya performed their ceremonies.

Day 11-13
We go to the town of Las Coloradas on the coast of the Mexical Gulf to see lakes with pink water - the favorite place of hundreds of flamingos!

After dinner we will visit another archaeological complex of ancient Maya - Ek-Balam and walk to the top of the acropolis. Just a few centuries ago, here was the capital of one of the most mysterious civilizations of our planet! We observe the impressive work of ancient masters of sculpture. For example, the famous figures of winged warriors.

We will visit a tequila factory to learn about the most famous Mexican drink.

In the morning we take a bus (5 hours on the way) to the south of the Yucatan Peninsula - the village of Bacalar, which is located on the shores of the lake of the same name. It is also called the Lake of Seven Colors. All because of the bottom with white sand, which creates the illusion of seven shades of blue water in different parts of the lake. We check into a hotel.

Next day is free. We can enjoy rest on the lake, go kayaking, visit cenotes, explore the pirate channel, or visit the local fort.

Day 14-15
Bus to Playa del Carmen (4 hours on the way), one of the most popular places on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. White beaches, shopping, food, souvenirs, parties... This place has it all!

Next day we go to Cancun airport (1.5 hours on the way). Those interested can stay in Cancun to enjoy the beach life. Other participants say goodbye to Mexico and fly hom

Tour guide - Sofia Vovk

Sofia worked as the program director of the TV channel, until one day she went on vacation to Madagascar. Then she realized that she wants to change her life dramatically and explore the world. Sofia switched to freelancing, traveled a lot and finally settled in Central America. Expert on Mexico, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Honduras.

ITINERARY

Day 1
Arrival in Mexico City. After check in at the hotel in the historical center we will walk around the city and taste the pulka (traditional drink of the ancient Aztecs). We will finish the evening listening to traditional mariachi music.

Day 2
Excursion to the complex Teotihuacan – one of the largest ancient cities of Mexico. Here you can find the famous pyramids of the Sun and the Moon.

Day 3
Walking through Mexico City, visiting Museum of Anthropology, free time after lunch. You can visit museums, exhibitions and go for shopping.

Day 4
Morning flight from Mexico City to Merida (about 2 hours), the capital of the state of Yucatan and the first city founded by Spanish colonizers on the Yucatan Peninsula. Check-in at the hotel, walking around the city.

Day 5
It's time to discover cenote - the unique cave lakes, which can only be seen on this peninsula. In some of them you can swim, the others were used by the ancient Maya for their ceremonies. On this day, we will also go to the countryside of the state to find out why a railway track for horses was built there. Overnight in the city of Merida.

Day 6
We'll go deep into the history of pre-Columbian Mexico again and visit the ancient city of Chichen Itza - one of the new 7 wonders of the world! Transfer from Merida to Chichen Itza will take about 2 hours. Trip to the city of Valladolid (1 hour), check-in at hotel.

Day 7
The natural wonders of Yucatan will surprise us again. We will travel to the coast of the Gulf of Mexico to the village of Las Coloradas to see the unique lakes with pink water, the favorite place of hundreds of flamingos.

Day 8
Caves with weird stone formations, wells with amazing vegetation, natural pools with crystal clear water - we will enjoy Yukatan cenote on this day. Snorkeling, swimming, jumping with zip-line - it is going to be an active day.

Day 9
Hello, Caribbeans! We will travel to Playa del Carmen (2.5 hours on the way), and take on ferry to the island of Cozumel (45 min) - a popular place for diving and snorkeling.

Day 10
Free day on Cozumel Island. Optional scuba diving, snorkeling or exploring beautiful places of the island.

Day 11
Bus to Cancun, flight back home.

Tour guide - Sofia Vovk

Sofia worked as the program director of the TV channel, until one day she went on vacation to Madagascar. Then she realized that she wants to change her life dramatically and explore the world. Sofia switched to freelancing, traveled a lot and finally settled in Central America. Expert on Mexico, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Honduras.

ITINERARY

Day 1
Arrival in Mexico City. After check in at the hotel in the historical center we will walk around the city and taste the pulka (traditional drink of the ancient Aztecs). We will finish the evening listening to traditional mariachi music.

Day 2
Excursion to the complex Teotihuacan – one of the largest ancient cities of Mexico. Here you can find the famous pyramids of the Sun and the Moon.

Day 3
Walking through Mexico City, visiting Museum of Anthropology, free time after lunch. You can visit museums, exhibitions and go for shopping.

Day 4
Morning flight from Mexico City to Merida (about 2 hours), the capital of the state of Yucatan and the first city founded by Spanish colonizers on the Yucatan Peninsula. Check-in at the hotel, walking around the city.

Day 5
It's time to discover cenote - the unique cave lakes, which can only be seen on this peninsula. In some of them you can swim, the others were used by the ancient Maya for their ceremonies. On this day, we will also go to the countryside of the state to find out why a railway track for horses was built there. Overnight in the city of Merida.

Day 6
We'll go deep into the history of pre-Columbian Mexico again and visit the ancient city of Chichen Itza - one of the new 7 wonders of the world! Transfer from Merida to Chichen Itza will take about 2 hours. Trip to the city of Valladolid (1 hour), check-in at hotel.

Day 7
The natural wonders of Yucatan will surprise us again. We will travel to the coast of the Gulf of Mexico to the village of Las Coloradas to see the unique lakes with pink water, the favorite place of hundreds of flamingos.

Day 8
Caves with weird stone formations, wells with amazing vegetation, natural pools with crystal clear water - we will enjoy Yukatan cenote on this day. Snorkeling, swimming, jumping with zip-line - it is going to be an active day.

Day 9
Hello, Caribbeans! We will travel to Playa del Carmen (2.5 hours on the way), and take on ferry to the island of Cozumel (45 min) - a popular place for diving and snorkeling.

Day 10
Free day on Cozumel Island. Optional scuba diving, snorkeling or exploring beautiful places of the island.

Day 11
Bus to Cancun, flight back home.

Tour guide - Sofia Vovk

Sofia worked as the program director of the TV channel, until one day she went on vacation to Madagascar. Then she realized that she wants to change her life dramatically and explore the world. Sofia switched to freelancing, traveled a lot and finally settled in Central America. Expert on Mexico, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Honduras.

ITINERARY

Day 1
Arrival in Guatemala City, meeting the guide. From there we head to Antigua - a city of magnificent colonial architecture (about 1 hour on the road). Check-in at the hotel.

Day 2
All day we will spend wandering the streets of an ancient city. We will visit churches, colorful squares and noisy markets. We will also take a walk to the observation deck with a magnificent view of the city and volcanoes, and we will start to discover the local cuisine.

Day 3
After breakfast, we begin a two-day ascent to the volcano Akatenango (3.976 meters high), the hike takes about six hours with breaks for rest and lunch. Staying for the night in the tents on the slope.

Day 4
We will wake up very early to see an incredible dawn from the slope of the Akatenango and to see the amazing active volcano of Fuego, which constantly spews lava and clouds of smoke. After breakfast we begin to descend to the foot of the volcano and return to rest and spend the night in the city of Antigua.

Day 5
Transfer with private transport to the Lake Atitlan (4 hours on the way). This is the deepest lake in Central America and one of the most picturesque – three volcanoes and dozens of Mayan settlements are located on its shores! We stop in the city of San Pedro la Laguna, to plunge into the culture and life of Maya. We will visit the market, art galleries, embroidery workshops. Those who want can go kayaking.

Day 6
Wake up at four in the morning to climb to the summit of the Indian Nose to see a spectacularly beautiful dawn (the hike takes around than 40 minutes). From the top of the mountain, you can see a panorama of the lake with six volcanoes around! After breakfast and short rest, we'll go on a boat trip through the villages on the banks of the lake. Each of them is unique.

Day 7-9
Transfer to the city of Chichicastenango (2 hours), to the largest market in Guatemala. Here you can find the largest bazaar in Guatemala, where you can buy national costumes of Maya and souvenirs. One of the most beautiful cemeteries in Central America is also located here. Check-in at the hotel. We leave deep into the country in the city of Lankuin (7 hours on the way) to see unique natural Semuk Champey complex. Night in eco-lodge among the Guatemalan jungle.

Day 10-11
We take off to Flores (6 hours on the way) - a picturesque mountain island on the Peten Itza lake. We will stay at the hotel and take a walk around the island. Those interested can go kayaking. In the morning we go to the largest of the Mayan cities - Tikal. Where in the 7th century BC was the center of civilization now stand majestic ruins in the middle of the wild jungle. We explore look at the palaces of the rulers and the ruins of the observatory, but the pyramids with the temples on the summits are particularly impressive. Maya believed that the spirits of the dead live in the mountains, and the pyramids were built as analogs of the mountains, with temples on their peaks. By the way, the name of the place itself - Tikal in Mayan language means "a place where the voices of spirits are heard". We will also see one of the first football fields. Yes, the ancient Maya played football! Scientists believe that the main rule was to keep the ball in the game, and stone rings on the walls of the stadium appeared in a later period. A rubber ball weighed about 4 kilograms! It is believed that the ball game was often carried out for ritual purposes and included human sacrifices.

Day 12
Transfer to Guatemala City (8 hours by bus or 1 hour by plane). Flight back home.

Tour leader - Sofia Vovk
Sofia worked as the program director of the TV channel, until one day she went on vacation to Madagascar. Then she realized that she wants to change her life dramatically and explore the world. Sofia switched to freelancing, traveled a lot and finally settled in Central America. Expert on Mexico, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Honduras.

ITINERARY

Day 1
Arrival in Quito. Checking into a guesthouse, a walk around the city and a cable car ride to the observation deck.

Day 2
A public bus journey (2 hours) to the town of Otavalo, to one of the largest bazaars in South America, flooded with unique textiles, clothes, food and souvenirs. Return to Quito.

Day 3
Bus transfer (3.5 hours) to Banos - a town in the valley near the active volcano Tungurahua. After checking into a hotel - a visit to Casa del Arbol with the famous swings above the abyss at the height of 2,660 m.

Day 4
We'll "fly" over the rivers and gorges on the zip-line, and then take a bicycle tour to the waterfall of Pailon del Diablo. In the evening - bathing in thermal pools.

Day 5-8
Bus transfer to the town of Tena (3.5 hours), meeting with a guide from the local tribe of Quechua. Visiting villages and studying the life of the Quechua tribes, master classes on making chocolate and accessories, boat trips by the river Napo, night and daytime jungle walks. We will see how a shaman holds the Ayahuasca ceremony and may even join him. We also plan rafting down the Jatunyacu River. Nights in bungalows with basic amenities. Return by bus to Quito (5 hours). Check-in at the guesthouse.

Day 9
Flight back home.

Tour leader - Iryna Galiuk

Iryna works in an organization that fights climate change, and fell in love with South America when visited Colombia for a conference. She has been living in Colombia, researching Latin-American culture, studying Spanish and dancing salsa ever since! Iryna is an expert on Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.

ITINERARY

Day 1
Arrival in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Checking into a hotel. We explore the city, sample local cuisine.

Day 2
Morning departure to the Galapagos Islands, known for the unique combination of flora and fauna of the tropical and Antarctic belts. Checking into a hotel in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Visiting Charles Darwin Research Station, walk around the island. We will meet giant turtles, iguanas, seals and, possibly, even pink flamingos.

Day 3
Morning departure to one of the best beaches of the Galapagos Islands, Tortuga Bay, those interested can snorkel. After dinner, we explore the island on a rented transport.

Day 4
Trip to Isabela island on a motorboat (about 2.5 hours). Bicycle ride to the famous natural monuments, snorkeling or swimming in a cozy bay with sea lions and iguanas. Night in a hotel.

Day 5
Exploring the Isabela Island. We plan a walk to the Sierra Negra volcano (about 5 hours), the crater of which is the second largest in the world! After lunch, kayaking near Puerto Villamil. From the islands of Isabela and Santa Cruz, you can take a day or half-day long diving tours.

Day 6
Morning check-out from the hotel, trip to Santa Cruz Island, and from there to Baltra Island - to the airport (about 3.5 hours in total). Flight to Quito. After lunch – checking into a guesthouse, a walk around the city and a cable car ride to the observation deck.

Day 7
A public bus journey (2 hours) to the town of Otavalo, to one of the largest bazaars in South America, flooded with unique textiles, clothes, food and souvenirs. Return to Quito.

Day 8
Flight back home.


Tour leader - Iryna Galiuk

Iryna works in an organization that fights climate change, and fell in love with South America when visited Colombia for a conference. She has been living in Colombia, researching Latin-American culture, studying Spanish and dancing salsa ever since! Iryna is an expert on Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.

ITINERARY

Day 1
Arrival in Quito. Checking into a hotel. We explore the city, sample local cuisine.

Day 2
Morning departure to the Galapagos Islands, known for the unique combination of flora and fauna of the tropical and Antarctic belts. Checking into a hotel in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Visiting Charles Darwin Research Station, walk around the island. We will meet giant turtles, iguanas, seals and, possibly, even pink flamingos.

Day 3
Morning departure to one of the best beaches of the Galapagos Islands, Tortuga Bay, those interested can snorkel. After dinner, we explore the island on a rented transport.

Day 4
Trip to Isabela island on a motorboat (about 2.5 hours). Bicycle ride to the famous natural monuments, snorkeling or swimming in a cozy bay with sea lions and iguanas. Night in a hotel.

Day 5
Exploring the Isabela Island. We plan a walk to the Sierra Negra volcano (about 5 hours), the crater of which is the second largest in the world! After lunch, kayaking near Puerto Villamil. From the islands of Isabela and Santa Cruz, you can take a day or half-day long diving tours.

Day 6
Morning check-out from the hotel, trip to Santa Cruz Island, and from there to Baltra Island - to the airport (about 3.5 hours in total). Flight to Quito. After lunch – checking into a guesthouse, a walk around the city and a cable car ride to the observation deck.

Day 7
A public bus journey (2 hours) to the town of Otavalo, to one of the largest bazaars in South America, flooded with unique textiles, clothes, food and souvenirs. Return to Quito.

Day 8
Bus transfer (3.5 hours) to Banos - a town in the valley near the active volcano Tungurahua. After checking into a hotel - a visit to Casa del Arbol with the famous swings above the abyss at the height of 2,660 m.

Day 9
We'll "fly" over the rivers and gorges on the zip-line, and then take a bicycle tour to the waterfall of Pailon del Diablo. In the evening - bathing in thermal pools.

Day 10-13
Bus transfer to the town of Tena (3.5 hours), meeting with a guide from the local tribe of Quechua. Visiting villages and studying the life of the Quechua tribes, master classes on making chocolate and accessories, boat trips by the river Napo, night and daytime jungle walks. We will see how a shaman holds the Ayahuasca ceremony and may even join him. We also plan rafting down the Jatunyacu River. Nights in bungalows with basic amenities. Return by bus to Quito (5 hours). Check-in at the guesthouse.

Day 14
Bus to Quito (4 hours on the way), flight back home.


Tour leader - Iryna Galiuk

Iryna works in an organization that fights climate change, and fell in love with South America when visited Colombia for a conference. She has been living in Colombia, researching Latin-American culture, studying Spanish and dancing salsa ever since! Iryna is an expert on Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.