16 Days, $3528 from Washington DC (DCA)

Includes airfare, great hotels, transfers & more!

Hosted by Norma Hughes
February 24- March 11, 2007

Argentina, Chile, and Brazil

Explore an amazingly diverse geography of mountains, plains, and coastline as you travel South America. Our Argentina travel destinations include the capital city of Buenos Aires and a visit to an estancia to experience gaucho life. Following the Argentina travel portion of the tour, our "off-the-beaten-path" odyssey continues to Chile, including  the Andes Mountains and the Lake District, where you enjoy fascinating sightseeing in one of the world's most stunning landscapes.

Our Chile travel itinerary includes the charming capitol city of Santiago. Our Brazil travel segment features one of nature's grand spectacles, Iguazu Falls—275 separate cataracts that send their white cascades roaring 250 feet below. Our trip concludes on the exquisite white sand beaches of lushly tropical Rio de Janeiro, the world-renowned Brazil travel "hot spot." Our Travel South America tour is an incredible experience at an unbeatable price!

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Depart Washington, D.C.. Your fascinating journey to South America begins as you depart this evening on your overnight flight to Santiago, Chile.

Day 2: Arrive Santiago (Chile). Afternoon arrival in Santiago, bustling capital of Chile, located between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Andes. Ride to the top of San Cristobal Hill for a bird's eye view of the city and the Andes mountain range before arriving at your deluxe hotel. Tonight join your fellow travelers at a welcome dinner. Hotel Galerias (D)

Day 3: Santiago. Learn more about Santiago's charms on this morning's tour. A local expert leads you through the fascinating exhibits at the Pre-Colombian Museum containing a unique collection of artifacts from South and Central America. Proceed to the Plaza de Armas, the city's main square and the nearby Cathedral. You'll also see the Presidential Palace and the bohemian section of Bellavista. Your tour concludes at the Handicraft Market where you can see and perhaps buy some of the fabulous arts and crafts of Chile. Afternoon at leisure. (B)

Day 4: Santiago/Puerto Montt/Puerto Varas. Today board a short flight to the southern port city of Puerto Montt, gateway to the Chilean Lake District. Drive along the shores of placid Lake Llanquihue to the nearby village of Puerto Varas. Your charming hotel offers magnificent views of the lake. Hotel Puerto Pilar (B,D)

Day 5: Lake Crossings/Bariloche (Argentina). Today's unforgettable excursion is reputed to be one of the most scenic in the world. Traverse the Andean Mountains through the Lake District from Chile to Argentina. Enjoy dramatic landscapes, spectacular emerald green lakes, gushing waterfalls, snow capped volcanoes and dense forests. The breathtaking scenery unfolds as you journey through winding roads overlooking the magical lakes of Chile's Vincente Perez Rosales National Park into Argentina's equally amazing Nahuel Huapi National Park. Arrive in quaint Villa Angostura and embark on a boat ride to view the striking Arrayanes Forest with its rare and ancient Myrtle trees. Continue along the magical lake toward the picture perfect town of Bariloche. Dazzler Bariloche (B)

Day 6: Bariloche. Set in idyllic scenery reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, Bariloche is a splendid town, easily explored from your centrally located hotel. An included walking tour features a visit to the engaging Patagonia Museum. Later, explore on your own, relax or shop for knit woolen sweaters and delicious locally made chocolate. (B)

Day 7: Bariloche/Buenos Aires. Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina's capital, often called "Paris of the South". The city is a great mix of European heritage and Latin spirit, evident in architecture, culture and lifestyle. Drive through the Avenida 9 de Julio, the world's widest avenue, to your downtown hotel. Dazzler Hotel Buenos Aires (B)

Day 8: Buenos Aires. On this morning's guided tour see the Plaza de Mayor, the famous Opera House and the historic La Boca district. Proceed to the elegant Recoleta district and the cemetery where Evita Peron is buried. Afternoon at leisure. Tonight, you are our guest for a delicious dinner and an exciting tango show, South America's passionate dance. (B,D)

Day 9: Buenos Aires/Pampas. Travel outside the city on a full day excursion to the Argentine Pampas. Visit an estancia (ranch) and enjoy a sumptuous barbecue lunch followed by a Gaucho Fiesta, complete with gaucho riding and folklore show. (B,L)

Day 10: Buenos Aires. A full day at leisure. Why not take a "behind the scenes" tour of the ornate Colon Opera House, visit the shops lining the renowned Florida Street, or relax in one of the many outdoor cafes and parks. (B)

Day 11: Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls (Argentina/Brazil). After breakfast board your flight to the Argentinean side of Iguazu Falls. You'll soon discover why this is considered one of the greatest natural wonders of the world! Set at the border of Argentina and Brazil, the falls consist of 275 inlets and cataracts that send their cascades roaring 250 feet below. Enjoy a ride on the ecological train through the rain forest to Devil's Throat for a spectacular close-up view of the Argentinean side of the falls. Proceed to your hotel which commands a choice location, overlooking the falls. Bourbon Iguassu Golf Club and Resort (B,D)

Day 12: Iguazu/Rio De Janeiro. View the dramatic Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls and lush sub-tropical vegetation on an included tour. Free time before your flight to Rio de Janeiro, often described as one of the worlds most beautiful cities. Your luxurious hotel is the only one in Rio situated directly on the beach! Excelsior Copacabana Hotel (B)

Day 13: Rio de Janeiro. Sprawling between lush tropical mountains and the exquisite beaches of the Atlantic, Rio natural beauty and the warmth of its people will win your heart. This morning drive along white-sanded beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana to Sugar Loaf Mountain. Ascend by cable car to the 1300 feet summit for stunning views of the city and surroundings. Balance of the day is at leisure to explore on your own, enjoy delicious local cuisine and shop for authentic gemstones. (B)

Day 14: Rio de Janeiro. On this morning tour, a cog railway takes you through the rainforest up Corcovado Mountain, a 2300 feet peak crowned by the landmark statue of Christ the Redeemer. The views from the top of the mountain are dazzling! Later, explore Rio's Portuguese colonial history in the downtown area and visit the largest Cathedral in South America. On your free afternoon why not head to the beach or relax at your hotel's pool! Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner at a famous local restaurant. (B,D)

Day 15: Depart Rio. A day at leisure for independent pursuits. Evening transfer to the airport for your return flight. (B)

Day 16: Arrive USA. Your exciting South America adventure ends as you arrive the USA this morning.

Machu Picchu Pre Tour Extension

Tour Cost: $1050 per person
Single Supplement: $300

Rates are based on a minimum of 10 passengers. We reserve the right to adjust the rate should the passengers fall below 10.

TOUR INCLUDES:

• Intra-South America flights, ground transportation and transfers
• Accommodations at First Class hotels with private bath
• 4 buffet breakfasts (B), 2 dinners (D)
• Comprehensive sightseeing tours as specified on the itinerary
• Professional English-speaking tour directors

RATES DO NOT INCLUDE:

• Passports, visa or items of personal nature
• Tips to guides, drivers, hotel dining rooms

About Machu Picchu
Known throughout the world for its amazing ruins and stunning location high in the mountains, Machu Picchu was accidentally discovered in 1911 by the American archaeologist Hiram Bingham. The beauty of its location and the genius construction make Machu Picchu - "lost city of the Incas" - the archaeological jewel of South America. Machu Picchus remains are comparatively well preserved because the Spaniards never reached the city. It was buried in the jungle for centuries, and even after its 1911 rediscovery, the city remained inaccessible until the 1940s, when an archaeological expedition working at the site discovered the Inca Trail cutting through the valley below. While most visitors spend only a few hours here, you'll stay overnight and have ample time to absorb the mystery and beauty of this amazing, not-to-be-missed site!

Important Travelers Note
The high altitudes reached on this trip (up to 11,000 feet above sea level) requires that you be in good physical condition to fully enjoy the trip. We strongly suggest that you consult a physician regarding any concerns prior to making a reservation

Your Itinerary

Day 1, February 20: Depart USA. Your exciting expedition to Peru begins as you depart on your overnight flight.

Day 2, February 21: Arrive Lima/Cusco (Peru). Early morning arrival in Lima, Peru's diverse capital. Transfer to the domestic terminal for your short flight to Cusco, a vibrant town, dotted with archaeological sites On a guided afternoon tour visit the main Inca and Colonial monuments. See the Plaza de Armas, the center of the Inca Empire and the impressive 16th century cathedral, built on the ruins of the Inca Palace. In the old town view magnificently restored colonial buildings. Novotel Hotel

Day 3, February 22: Cuzco. Venture this morning to the outskirts of Cuzco to visit the amazing ruins of Sacsayhuaman, an Inca architectural masterpiece. From this fortress enjoy fabulous views of the city below. The afternoon is at leisure. Tonight savor dinner complete with a colorful folklore show (B, D)

Day 4, February 23: Cuzco/Machu Picchu. Embark on a two-day expedition to Machu Picchu. Ride aboard the VistaDome train through the lush Urubamba Valley passing through stunning scenery. Arrive at "The Lost City of the Incas" rediscovered in 1911. The beauty of its location and the genius construction make Machu Picchu the jewel of all Inca settlements. An expert leads you through the ruins to absorb the mystery and beauty of this amazing site. While most visitors leave Machu Picchu in the afternoon you'll stay in the area overnight. Machu Picchu Inn. (B,D)

Day 5, February 24: Machu Picchu/Cuzco. Return to Machu Picchu to explore the mystical ruins further. To this day nobody can explain how the Incas managed to transport the huge blocks of limestone for the city's construction onto the mountain top. Visit quaint Aguas Caliente before your afternoon train ride back to Cuzco. Novotel Hotel. (B)

Day 6, February 25: Cuzco/Santiago. This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Santiago, via Lima. Evening arrival in Santiago, Chile. (B)

Destination FAQs

For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Chile, click here.

For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Argentina, click here.

For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Brazil, click here.

Lifetime Learning Institute South American Odyssey Prices

From Washington DC (DCA):	$3528*
Single Occupancy:	add $736
Travel Insurance:	Included ($129 value)
Chile arrival tax:	$100 (not included)**
Argentina departure tax:	$20 (not included)**
Brazilian Visa Fee:	$100 (not included)**
* Includes U.S. airline departure taxes and fuel surcharges.
** These are costs which cannot be prepaid and are subject to change. We will send every passenger who reserves this tour all information required to obtain the visa for Brazil.

Reservations

Please download the reservation application and fax or mail it to us, together with your $300 per person deposit. Fax to: 215-572-9803. Mail to P.O. Box 505, Jenkintown, PA 19046.

Reservation application PDF

LLI South American Odyssey
Included Features

• Flights from Washington, DC (DCA) via scheduled carriers

• All intra-South America flights

• Accommodations in 4 & 5 star hotels, in twin-bedded rooms with private bath

• Lavish buffet breakfast daily plus a typical "Asado" lunch and 5 dinners

• Transfers and touring are provided by modern, air-conditioned touring coaches, including all entrance fees to places visited in the itinerary

• Comprehensive travel insurance

Single occupancy rooms: add $736.

Additional Costs: Chile arrival tax (presently $100), Argentina departure tax (presently $20), and the Brazilian Visa fee (presently $100). These are costs which cannot be prepaid and are subject to change.

Flight Schedule: Click here for a full flight schedule.

Travel Insurance: Included ($129 value) (details)