MACHU PICHHU & EASTER ISLAND TOUR `B` – 2021 Total Solar Eclipse

Machu Picchu and Easter Island Tour offers an opportunity to explore two of the most interesting archaeological sites in South America.  Machu Picchu served as a centre of worship, an astronomic observatory, and a private hacienda for the Inca Pachacutec, and was recently named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The sun was the most important god of the Inca culture and bathed with its light the largest empire of pre-Columbian America, leaving a cultural and patrimonial heritage that shines – until today – with its own light. Easter Island, located 2,200 miles west of Chile in the Pacific Ocean, is home to over 800 Moai statues that stand up to 33 feet tall, and whose origin is still a mystery.

DAY 1- SUN. Nov. 28: ARRIVE SANTIAGO

Welcome at Santiago airport and transfer to the hotel. (Note- Arrival transfer is provided to participants taking our international group air travel. Participants making own international air arrangements or arriving on non group flight plans can either purchase a private transfer or make own arrangements to reach group Hotel.)  Encounter Santiago, Chile’s capital, nestled in the central valley, right below the imposing Andes. This city mixes the “Mapuche” legacy- (the natives that inhabited this land during the Pre-Columbian era), our Spanish colonial past and the modernity of any thriving city of the world. Walk its streets, visit its museums, engage with its architecture and become a part of it. Historical and contemporary features combined in the heart of Chile.  Rest of the day is at leisure. Meet your fellow tour members and briefing followed by welcome dinner at local restaurant this evening. HOTEL CUMBRES LASTARRIA- DINNER

DAY 2- MON. Nov. 29: CITY TOUR

Begin our journey towards the city center, where we will get to know its main attractions. First, we will visit the Santa Lucia Hill, where the city of Santiago was founded in 1541. Continue to the Plaza de Armas, to see the Cathedral of Santiago, the Municipality, the Post Office Building and National History Museum. Later visit the Cerro San Cristobal, where we can enjoy a panoramic view of Santiago. The experience continues with a panoramic tour through the Providencia neighbourhood and finally, along the Costanera Highway until reaching the elegant Vitacura neighbourhood and the Alonso de Córdova Avenue. Lunch at local restaurant. Rest of the afternoon is free to explore the city and the sights or to shop on own. HOTEL CUMBRES LASTARRIA- BREAKFAST & LUNCH.

DAY 3- TUE. Nov. 30: VALPARAISO & WINE COUNTRY TOUR

After Breakfast travel along the Pacific coast, crossing the Coastal Mountain Range passing through the central wine-producing valley of Casablanca framed by a wonderful mountain backdrop. Stop at one of the wineries nestled in the country’s finest wine-producing areas, you’ll get a tour of the wine-making operation and learn about the symbiotic relationship between local plants and livestock. You’ll also get to sample some of the winery’s latest vintages, accompanied by local cheese or chocolate. The ocean will come into view as you arrive in Valparaiso. Next, we arrive at the city of Valparaíso, World Heritage Site and main commercial port and home to the Congress of Chile. During the tour, visitors are greeted by the multi-colored houses on the hills, parks and diverse historic monuments, traditional bars and restaurants. Here you’ll climb up Cerro Florida and arrive at the former house of the poet-diplomat Neruda, containing some eye-catching original artefacts and furniture We will have lunch at a typical seafood restaurant and get to know the Plaza Sotomayor, the most important civic square of the city, located on the shore. Finally, we will sail across the bay, in order to appreciate the best views of Valparaíso. Return back our hotel in Santiago. HOTEL CUMBRES LASTARRIA- BREAKFAST & LUNCH

DAY 4, WED. Dec. 1: SANTIAGO/ PUNTA NATALES

After Breakfast, transfer to airport for flight to Puerto Natales, one of Chilean Patagonia’s sightseeing hubs. Puerto Natales lies inside a beautiful, wild region known for its fjords, towering mountain peaks and glaciers – many of the latter spilling out from the vast Southern Ice Field. After settling in at the Hotel rest of the day is free to explore the city on own.  HOTEL COSTAUSTRALIS – BREAKFAST & DINNER

DAY 5- THU. Dec. 2: TORRES DEL PAINE

After breakfast, the excursion begins with a visit to the Milodon’s Cave, a remarkable cavern 200 meters long, 30 meters high and 80 meters wide located 25 km from Puerto Natales. A half-hour walk will take us into the cave, known for the discovery of fresh skin and bones from a prehistoric species of giant sloth, the Milodon. There have also been remains of other extinct animals, such as the dwarf horse and the sabre-toothed tiger, after this interesting visit, we will travel towards the gates of the National Park Torres del Paine crossing numerous estancias and a landscape that goes from the steppe to the deciduous forest. On the way, it is possible to spot local fauna including the South American ostrich or Nandu and the guanaco, a wild llama. Torres del Paine is known worldwide for the massifs that give it its name; giant granite modelled by the force of glacial ice. After entering the park through the area of Portería Laguna Amarga, to enjoy excellent views of the spectacular Torres del Paine, having the opportunity to see the most famous viewpoints of Torres del Paine: Mirador Lago Sarmiento, Mirador Laguna Amarga where we will see the towers and Mirador Lago Nordenskjold. At each of the stop, we’ll be able to enjoy a totally unique view, different sceneries and totally different landscapes, different ecosystems and sample the diversity of the park, after this viewpoint we drive to Salto Grande a nice waterfall where we will have the opportunity for a easy walk (30 minutes), to enjoy this nice place. We head next to Hotel Lago Pehoe to enjoy lunch with great panoramic view of Lake Pehoé and the Cuernos del Paine. After lunch, we continue to Lake Grey, where we will take a walk to a panoramic point from which we can contemplate the icebergs and the glacier of the same name. Continue by road that borders the lakes Toro, Porteño and Sofía. Enjoy the scenery and take pictures before returning to Puerto Natales. HOTEL COSTAUSTRALIS – BREAKFAST & LUNCH

DAY 6- FRI. Dec. 3: PUERTO NATALES- ESTANCIA OLGA TERESA- CONDORS OF PATAGONIA – PUNTA ARENAS

After breakfast leave Puerto Natales to drive towards Punta Arenas, about 150 km. we take a detour to the Rio Verde area, to drive another 40 km. to arrive to Estancia Olga Teresa which is a ranch located in the middle of a vast rural community. This property is a typical ‘estancia’ of the Chilean Patagonia, where visitors can enjoy Magellanic livestock traditions, typical of the area, and an encounter with nature in a unique and welcoming environment. The Estancia was acquired in 1922 by Don Fermín Roca Berjoan, a pioneer of French origin, who named it after his two daughters, Olga and Teresa. Currently, the estancia belongs to his grandson Rodolfo Concha Roca along with his wife Yvonne Paeile Jordan and their four children, Rodolfo Luis, Lorena, Cristián and Rodrigo.Estancia. Olga Teresa has been transformed over time into a place of enormous charisma, being known for the natural beauties of its surroundings, for the quality of its animals and products and for the great hospitality that its owners always offer their visitors. In 2000, the family started the agro tourism activity as a complement to the livestock. In this task, the whole family and its permanent collaborators participate, demonstrating the work of the sheep, dogs and the shearing of the sheep. Enjoy typical roast lamb and other dishes for Lunch. After lunch enjoy some time free before a short drive to the area where condors can be seen.

CONDORS OF PATAGONIA: There is nowhere else that is so readily accessible and protected to observe and photograph the world’s largest flying bird, the majestic and famous Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus). we will drive to the largest condor viewing site in all Chilean Patagonia, which features an average of 40 to 50 condors throughout the year. The visit to the site involves a short walk of about 500 meters on level ground, to a rock wall that serves as a roosting area for condors. Researchers will show the condors through a powerful telescope and visitors will be provided the use of professional-quality binoculars by the conservation project staff. Meanwhile, a researcher will describe the condor biology and behavior and will use the telescope to point out selected specimens that are identified by name. There will be opportunities to take “trophy photos” with normal cameras or cell phone cameras.

Afterwards we continue travel for about 75 km to Punta Arenas. Punta Arenas is the capital city of Chilean Patagonia and the departure point for many expeditions to Antarctica. The city was founded in 1848 at the extreme southern end of the continent. Punta Arenas was initially a penal colony and later attracted many immigrants from Europe and the Chilean region of Chiloé. Pre Eclispe flight briefing this evening. HOTEL CABO DE HORNOS – BREAKFAST & LUNCH

DAY 7- SAT. Dec. 4: ECLIPSE FLIGHT Option, Free day or take an optional tour

Early wakeup call and transfer to airport to board a specially chartered Eclipse flight departing well before dawn from Punta Arenas in southern Chile. We’ll fly eastbound to a location near the at-altitude sunrise point on centerline over the ocean. More details will be advised as they become available. This evening join fellow tour members for a celebratory Dinner & a report by our Eclipse experts. HOTEL CABO DE HORNAS- BREAKFAST & DINNER

ECLIPSE FIGHT:

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Note: Pre Eclipse flight briefing and celebratory dinner is only for participants taking the eclipse flight.

DAY 8- SUN. Dec. 5: PUNTA ARENAS TOUR/ SANTIAGO

After Breakfast, we will be picked up and whisked away to explore the cultural and natural wonders of this southern city. An attractive tour of the Plaza de Armas surrounded by historic buildings, next to the monument to Hernando de Magallanes. Depending on the chosen option you can visit one of its very complete museums such as the Braun Menéndez Palace to learn about the lifestyle at the beginning of the 20th century or the Salesian Museum with exhibitions of culture, history, religion, art, flora and fauna. We will visit the municipal cemetery of beautiful gardens and mausoleums. Then the traditional monument to the Ovejero. You will cross the coast of the Strait. We will finish at the Cerro de la Cruz Viewpoint with a beautiful panoramic view of the city centre, the Strait of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego Island. Free time until our evening flight to Santiago. HOLIDAY INN AIRPORT HOTEL- BREAKFAST & LUNCH

DAY 9- MON. Dec. 6: SANTIAGO/ EASTER ISLAND

Fly to Easter Island, which was declared by UNESCO in 1996 as `Patrimonio Cultural de la Humanidad’, home to old culture of Rapa Nui. Upon our arrival at the Mataveri airport in Hanga Roa we will be welcomed with a traditional flower necklace. After a short transfer to the hotel we will have the rest of the day to spend as we please. A visit to the nearby church and village is recommended. There we will have the opportunity to observe both Catholic and indigenous symbols and statues (Sunday mass available if time permits).  Next to the church we will find the local market and museum rich in Rapa Nui artefacts and culture. HOTEL ALTIPLANICO RAPA NUI – BREAKFAST & DINNER

DAY 10, TUE. Dec. 7: MOAIS OF EASTER ISLAND

After breakfast, we will learn more about the fascinating history of Rapa Nui and begin the day heading south along the coast. As we travel along the road we will be able to observe the shoreline with black volcanic rocks and the amazing views of the vast Pacific Ocean. Our first stop will be a place known as Hanga Te’e where we will be able to view a variety of toppled Moai (statues) of Ahu Vaihu. From there we will continue on and arrive to Rano Raraku. This volcano is home to an ancient quarry that supplied stone from which about 95% of the island’s sculptures were carved. Here we will enjoy a box-lunch and explore our surroundings. Subsequently we will make our way to the next highlight, Ahu Tongariki. This is the largest restored Ahu on Easter Island and features 15 moai. Afterwards, we will drive towards the east coast and arrive to Te Pito o Te Henua. This location is considered the “bellybutton” of the world boasting the nearby Ahu Te Pito Kura. Last, but not least we will reach the beach of Anakena known for its beautiful white sand and coconut palm trees. After visiting the nearby restored Ahu Nau Nau we will have time for a little rest and refreshing swim in the warm Pacific Ocean. HOTEL ALTIPLANICO RAPA NUI – BREAKFAST & LUNCH

DAY 11, WED. Dec. 8: CEREMONIAL VILLAGE ORONGO & AKIVI

In the morning, we will take a drive up the Rano Kau extinct volcano. Along the way we will be able to appreciate panoramic views of the entire island as well as make a brief stop at an outlook point that showcases a crater lake. From there we will head to the ceremonial village known as Orongo. There, we will learn about its past, culture and the history of the birdman cult. We will also be able to observe a variety of petroglyph images and be able to spot 3 islets situated opposite of the coastline. Afterwards we will drive down the volcano to the Ahu Vinapu that includes an ahu with interesting stonemasonry. Subsequently our last stop of the morning before heading back to the hotel, will be a cave where we will find interesting wall paintings. In the afternoon we will travel to Ahu Akivi which features seven re-erected moai situated inland. The legend claims that these statues represent the seven explorers who were sent to Rapa Nui by the late king Hotu Matua. From there we will continue on to Hanga Poukura; this is an extraordinary ahu site where a number of tumbled moai statues and scattered topknots are located. Next, we will visit the important quarry of Puna Pau that provided the sole source of the red scoria that the Rapa Nui villagers used to carve the Pukaos. For the last visit of the day we will head to the ceremonial site of Tahai boasting 3 ahus, restored statues, remains of boat houses and a boat ramp. This is a day filled with history, culture and breath taking sights! HOTEL ALTIPLANICO RAPA NUI – BREAKFAST & LUNCH

DAY 12, THU. Dec. 9: EASTER ISLAND / SANTIAGO/ LIMA – Peru

After breakfast transfer to airport and fly to Santiago. Upon arrival connect with your flight to Lima. Arrive at Lima, meeting assistance upon arrival and transfer you to your hotel in Lima. The Peruvian capital is a modern metropolis full of history, currently undergoing an exciting process of cultural and economic changes. Rest of the day is at leisure to adjust with time difference etc. (Note- Arrival transfer is provided to participants taking our international group air travel. Participants making own international air arrangements or arriving on non group flight plans can either purchase a private transfer or make own arrangements to reach group Hotel.)  Meet your fellow tour members this evening and tour briefing.  Welcome dinner at a local restaurant and overnight at JOSE ANTONIO DELUXE HOTEL – BREAKFAST & DINNER

DAY 13, FRI. Dec. 10: LIMA – CITY TOUR

After breakfast, explore Lima’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with fascinating historic buildings. The route begins at the traditional Pueblo Libre district, where you visit the Larco Museum, located in a beautifully restored vice regal mansion built on a pre-Columbian pyramid from the seventh century. The museum boasts a complete pre-Hispanic collection of gold and silver objects, as well as pieces of erotic art. Then visit the Casa Aliaga, a colonial mansion granted by chief conquistador Francisco Pizarro to one of his captains, Jeronimo de Aliaga. This is the only house from that time, still belonging to the same family. Continue with a scenic tour through the colonial downtown. See the Main Square, where you can appreciate the grandiose architecture of the Spanish Empire. Admire Lima’s Cathedral, built during the 16th century. The afternoon is free to explore city on own. JOSE ANTONIO DELUXE HOTEL – BREAKFAST & LUNCH

DAY 14, SAT. Dec. 11: LIMA – CUSCO – SACRED VALLEY

After an early breakfast transfer to Lima airport. & board flight to Cusco, the Imperial City. From the airport, begin your short tour to Awanakancha, an exhibition centre of textiles and South American camelids located at kilometer 23 of the road to Pisac. It is considered a living museum and here you can see Andean camelids, learn about the techniques to take their wool and finally acquire finely spun garments. Enjoy lunch at Rancho Wayra. Delight yourself with the surprising variety of recipes prepared under the careful tutelage of renowned chefs. The ingredients used come from the fertile Sacred Valley of the Incas, and are rich in nutrients and flavour. Witness the Peruvian Paso horse show, renowned for the smoothest gait in the world. Stunning equestrian demonstrations, to the rhythm of marinera music will render the environment favourable for tasting the quality of their cuisine. Continue to your hotel in Sacred Valley.  Rest of your evening is free. SONESTA POSADA DEL INCA HOTEL – BREAKFAST & LUNCH

DAY 15. SUN. Dec. 12: SACRED VALLEY – CHINCHERO, OLLANTAYTAMBO AND LIVING MUSEUM OF YUCAY

After breakfast visit the town of Chinchero, a traditional Cusco urban centre located at an elevated point with a beautiful view of the valley. The inhabitants of this area preserve the artisan traditions and the inherited knowledge of the Incas and display them in their clothes and customs. In Chinchero there are also archaeological remains and a beautiful seventeenth-century church, one of the first Catholic buildings in Peru. Next viist the Living Museum of Yucay, a centre Andean traditions interpretations, where demonstrations of the elaboration of textile work, adobe, pottery and silverware are carried out in the same way in which they used to in antiquity; an original recreation of Inca traditions. Also, residents of the museum include llamas, sheep and alpacas, and they can be fed! Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo visit its town, inhabited uninterruptedly since Inca times, and have a superior Andean gastronomy experience in a restaurant, where the true spirit of the Sacred Valley is transmitted in a cosy atmosphere! Later, climb the iconic fortress, built next to a mountain. Return back to hotel in the evening. SONESTA POSADA DEL INCA HOTEL – BREAKFAST & LUNCH

DAY 16, MON. Dec. 13: SACRED VALLEY – MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES

After Breakfast transfer to the Ollanta Station to board the train to Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to Machu Picchu. Following a scenic journey through dramatic Andean landscapes. Upon arrival  arrive at the station in Aguas Calientes. board a bus for a 25-minute ride to Machu Picchu. The ‘Lost City of the Incas’ is believed to have been built in the 1450s by Inca emperor Pachacuti as a holiday retreat, yet within a century the city would be abandoned following the Spanish conquest. The Spaniards never found it, so it was spared the destruction they brought on other Inca sites. Instead, it was slowly swallowed up by the jungle and hidden from harm. A guided tour explains the origins behind this awe-inspiring citadel, presenting its most prominent landmarks such as the monumental Main Square, the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Circular Towers, the Sacred Sun Dial, and the Burial Grounds. Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at a local restaurant and enjoy the rest of the day free. EL MAPI HOTEL IN AGUAS CALIENTES- BREAKFAST & LUNCH

DAY 17, TUE. Dec. 14:| AGUAS CALIENTES – CUSCO

Morning at leisure or take an optional tour of Machu Pichhu. In the afternoon, transfer board the train to Ollanta station. Transfer to hotel in Cusco where rest of the evening is free to acclimatize.  Enjoy Dinner with folklore show. SONESTA COSTA DEL SOL HOTEL- BREAKFAST & DINNER

DAY 18, WED. Dec. 15: CUSCO / CITY TOUR & ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES

Breakfast at hotel. Enjoy a guided tour of this charming city, which was the capital of the Inca Empire. The tour starts with a visit to Santo Domingo Convent, a large Renaissance-baroque complex, which was built over the Inca Coricancha temple. It was one of the most important temples dedicated to worshipping of the sun, and its foundations are still prominent at the base of the convent. Ancient chronicles say the temple was covered in gold leaf and filled with golden representations of nature. Next visit the Cathedral, the most imposing monument of the Main Square. Head to the hills above Cusco to visit the remains of the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, whose imposing ramparts offer a stunning panoramic view of Cusco, and the ruins of the temple and amphitheatre of Qenqo, where it is believed the Incas practised agricultural rituals. Admire Qenqo and finally visit Puka Pukara (‘Red fortress’ in Quechua) an Inca military complex located on a prominent hill. Its dwellings squares, bathrooms, aqueducts, walls, and towers can still be appreciated. After lunch, time free to explore Cusco on your won. Farewell Dinner this evening accompanied by local music and dance presentation. SONESTA COSTA DEL SOL HOTEL- BREAKFAST & DINNER

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Day 19. THU. Dec. 16: CUSCO/ LIMA DEPART

Breakfast at Hotel and time free until late afternoon flight to Lima and onward connection to your Hometown.  BREAKFAST & LUNCH

LAND TOUR PRICE – $7,075.00 per person sharing

SINGLE ROOM- $8,907.00

CASH/ CHECK PAYMENT PRICE:

$ 6,725.00 per person sharing

SINGLE ROOM- $ 8,470.00

Supplement for Pre Eclipse flight briefing, Post eclipse celebratory dinner- $ 50.00 per person. 

TERMS & CONDITIONS: per person

• A deposit of $350.00 per person is required at time of booking. ($150.00 is non refundable).
• Balance payment is due on or before Aug. 27, 2021.
• 25% of tour payment is non refundable +$150.00 administrative fee, if cancelled between Aug. 28 & Sep. 28, 2021
• 50% of tour payment is non refundable +$150.00 administrative fee, if cancelled between Sep. 29 & Oct. 28, 2021.
• 100% of tour payment is non refundable, if canceled on or after Oct. 29, 2021

Cancellations must be made in writing and sent by email, fax, or mail.  Terms are applied effective date of receipt by A Classic Tours Collection. We reserve the right to treat the reservation as cancelled if payments are not received when due. No refunds will be given in such case.

Payments are refundable in full (less $350.00 administrative fees), if ACTC is unable to deliver the tour up to 31 days prior to start of tour. Travelers are strongly recommended to purchase travel insurance to protect their travel investment.

PLEASE NOTE: Group air rates from major US cities will be negotiated with the airlines and offered to participants (usually 11 months prior to departure). Airlines may require purchase of International air to receive low domestic travel (internal Chile) rates or rates may be combined for both International and Domestic Chile travel.

First arrival transfer and final departure transfers are included for participants arriving on group travel flights or at same time as group travel airline. Those making own International & Internal Chile flight arrangements can either join at Hotel on own or purchase a private transfer. Additional costs apply.

FOR MORE INFORMATION & RESERVATIONS, CALL – 888 605 TOURS (8687) OR 310 373 1001. E.MAIL: INFO@ACLASSICTOUR.COM