The best way to explore the Amazon is by boat, and the new Amazon Clipper Premium,which commenced sailing in 2005, is our recommended vessel. Large enough to offer spacious cabins with lower beds, but small enough to dock at remote spots and cruise to hidden locations due to the shallow draft of only 3 feet, the Amazon Clipper Premium is the perfect size for a comfortable cruise on the Amazon.At 32 metres long, she accommodates 32 guests in 16 air-conditioned cabins, all with lower beds and private facilities. Public areas on the boat include a window-lined dining room to seat all passengers at one leisurely sitting, an entertainment deck with a large airconditioned lecture room with library/bar facilities, a bar with plenty of comfortable seating and a gift shop. Also on this deck are two whirlpools and shower facilities. During the cruise, you will experience trips on outboard-powered canoes along small creeks to see life on the flooded plains, rubber trees, lakes with giant water lilies,watch the birds, visit the local inhabitants and walk in the forest, always accompanied by expedition guides. Other activities include fishing for piranhas, night trips to see nocturnal animals, and visits to markets and the local houses on stilts.

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For those passengers who want to visit the Amazon region, but don’t necessarily want to join a cruise,we can recommend a stay at the excellent Amazon EcoPark, just 30 minutes by motor launch from Manaus. Located on the banks of the Taruma River, a tributary of the Rio Negro, it is ideal for a short visit to the rainforest. Accommodation is in one of 60 rooms housed in 20 rustic bungalows. Rooms are cooled by fans and airconditioning and have private bathrooms with hot water showers. The Lodge has a panoramic open-air restaurant and there is also a bar and lounge area. In addition to catering to tourists the EcoPark is a scientific and educational complex and houses the Amazon Primates Rehabilitation Centre.

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Stretching for nearly 7,500 kilometres the Brazilian coastline is as varied as it is vast. From the swamps, mangroves and river channels of the north it follows a course that takes it through a diverse range of twists and turns that include dunes and lagoons, the fabulous beaches of Rio and the southern coastal plains, where the towering mountains reach down to the very ocean itself.

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Brazil’s rich colonial heritage spanned a period of some 300 years, producing a mix of European, African and Native American influences that provided a fascinating mix of cultures. From the grandiose architecture of Salvador, Brazil’s first capital to the monasteries of Olinda and the gold mines of Minas Gerais, we find an enthralling wealth of reminders to Brazil’s beguiling colonial past.

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Traditionally the driest and most culturally diverse of Brazil’s regions, the northeast was the first area of the country to be discovered and colonised by the Portuguese. Today its arid landscapes still echo with the reminders of its colonial past, with European and African influences very much in evidence, especially amongst the vibrant streets of Salvador and Olinda. It is also an area rich in scenic beauty, with some of the most spectacular beaches and dunes in the world. Straddling the equator is the largest marine-fluvial island on the planet in Marajo Island. A quite staggering diversity of birdlife inhabits the island, including flamingos, parrots, toucans and the stunning scarlet ibis, and the added bonus of alligators, monkeys and large anacondas in residence makes this a fascinating destination.

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Part of Rio’s enduring attraction is its famous beaches where the city comes to play and relax. Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon have become synonymous with fun in a city that could have invented the term. The most famous stretch of ocean front is Copacabana, over 3 km long where the Cariocas come to play ball games and show off their bodies, whilst on Leblon and Ipanema Rio’s elite bask in the glory of this stunning setting.

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Rio’s annual extravaganza – the most famous of them all – attracts thousands of people from all over the globe. The origins of the carnival are unclear, but most agree that it started as a pagan celebration in ancient Rome or Greece. This overwhelming event is held in the run up to Lent, starting on Saturday and ending on Shrove Tuesday, or Mardi-Gras. Dates for 2008 are 2 to 5 February and for 2009, 21 to 24 February. Most of the hotels have a minimum stay of at least 4 nights and booking early is recommended. We would be happy to discuss an itinerary incorporating the carnival, or the Champions Parade which takes place on the Saturday after the main carnival.

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A must-see in Rio is Brazil’s most famous landmark, the statue of Christ the Redeemer which has dominated the skyline since 1931, from where there are stunning views of the city, its beaches and beyond. Another famous landmark is Sugar Loaf Mountain, nearly 400 metres high and reached by two cable car rides. For spectacular views of both landmarks and the city in general, why not take a short helicopter flight – truly an unforgettable experience.

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Managed by Orient Express Hotels, Rio's most traditional and luxurious hotel was opened in 1923. The impressive, stucco-fashioned landmark building is legendary for its style, fine cuisine and service. The hotel overlooks the famous Copacabana Beach and has 226 rooms, a large outdoor swimming pool and a choice of restaurants, including Cipriani, one of the finest Italian Restaurants in South America.

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The colonial style Das Cataratas Hotel is the only hotel actually situated in the Iguassu National Park on the Brazilian side of the spectacular Iguassu Falls and is only a few hundred metres from the falls themselves. The hotel has 200 spacious and well-equipped rooms, a choice of restaurants and a large outdoor swimming pool.

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This centrally-located hotel is a restored convent dating back to 1586. The newly renovated property has 79 bedrooms, a swimming pool, spa and fitness centre, two restaurants, coffee shop, library and music room. The property also has its own museum and church.

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Ouro Preto is a delightful colonial city which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated alongside the Saint Francis Church, the Pousada do Mondego in the centre of the old city is a charming 18th century inn. There are 24 rooms with impressive furnishings and art works. There is also an art gallery and an exhibition of precious gems, jewellery and antiques.

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The Pantanal is Brazil’s foremost destination for viewing wildlife. You will see land animals such as deer, ocelot, wild boar and several types of monkey, the emphasis undoubtedly on the sensational birdlife – 650 species including the world’s largest concentration of wading birds – storks, egrets, ibis, roseate, spoonbills, jabaru and many more. The Pousada do Rio Mutum is situated in the region of Barao de Melgaco, within one of the most beautiful areas of Pantanal. This region of the Pantanal is distinguished by an unusual variety of landscapes integrating hills, lakes, rivers and grassy plains. Accommodation is in one of 16 air-conditioned chalets with private bathrooms with hot and cold water. The restaurant offers a wide variety of regional and international dishes and other facilities include a swimming pool and bar.

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Situated about 35 miles north of Salvador overlooking the ocean, the Praia do Forte Eco Resort and Thalasso Spa is set amongst 200,000 square metres of gardens and coconut groves. The hotel has 4 pools, a choice of bars and restaurants and a water sports centre offering snorkelling, fishing, windsurfing and kayaking. Praia do Forte is Brazil's first resort strongly committed to ecological tourism and environmental conservation. Many cultural activities aimed at combining those purposes are offered to guests as leisure alternatives.

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Popular with our clients for many years, the Rio Internacional Hotel offers spectacular views over the world famous Copacabana beach. The hotel has 113 rooms all with a modern decor and we recommend the Ocean Front Rooms with their large windows. The hotel has a rooftop pool, restaurant and private beach service. The price of a 7 nights in an Ocean View Room with flights from London starts from £1495 per person sharing. Please ask for details.

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NATURAL WONDERS OF BRAZIL

Brazil is the world’s fifth largest nation. As befits a country this size, it has much to offer – vibrant and modern cities as well as sleepy colonial towns full of atmosphere. Brazil has also been blessed with an abundance of natural wonders; thousand of miles of magnificent coastline; the breathtaking Iguassu Falls and the Amazon, which covers nearly half of Brazilian territory.
• All flights as shown in economy class
• A choice of standard or superior accommodation on this itinerary based on two people sharing a twin room
• Ocean view rooms in Rio overlooking the famous Copacabana Beach
• Breakfast daily and full board in the Amazon
• Private transfers throughout
• Private sightseeing as shown with local English speaking guides including entrance fees (except in Rio where sightseeing is on a shared basis)
• Airport taxes
• Daily departures. No departures between 22 January and 14 February and 15 to 31 December.

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Day 1 Evening departure by TAM Airlines from London Heathrow to Rio de Janeiro.

Day 2 Arrive in the morning and transfer to the Rio Internacional Hotel located on Copacabana, for 3 nights in Ocean View rooms. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 3 Today you will have a full day tour of Rio visiting two of its most famous landmarks – Corcovado Mountain, which is dominated by the statue of Christ the Redeemer; and Sugar Loaf Mountain where the ascent is made by cable car.

Day 4 At leisure.

Day 5 Fly from Rio de Janeiro to via Brasilia to Manaus. On arrival transfer to the Amazon Eco Park for your 3 night stay.

Day 6 and Day 7 Two full days in the Amazon basin where plants and animals have evolved over millions of years in a profusion and variety unmatched elsewhere in the world. The region contains no less than a tenth of the world’s plant and animal species. During your time in the Amazon, a number of activities will be included such as hikes, canoe rides and a visit to a local community with some night-time alligator spotting.

Day 8 Fly from Manaus via Sao Paulo to Iguassu and transfer to your hotel for a 2-night stay at the colonial Das Cataratas Hotel.

Day 9 Today’s sightseeing will take you across the border into Argentina for further fantastic views including a close-up view of the Devil’s Throat.

Day 10 Fly from Iguassu via Sao Paulo to Salvador. On arrival transfer to the Pestana Hotel.

Day 11 With its unique afro-Brazilian culture, Salvador is a one of the important cultural cities in Brazil and the region has great charm as well as wealth of historical attractions and splendid beaches. Morning tour of historic Salvador including visits to Porto da Bara, Ladeira da Barra, Costa Pinto Museum and the Terreiro de Jesus square with its six churches.

Day 12 Afternoon flight from Salvador to Sao Paulo and onwards with TAM Airlines to London Heathrow.

Day 13 Arrive at London Heathrow

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BRAZIL - AN AMAZON JOURNEY

Brazil is the world’s fifth largest nation. As befits a country this size, it has much to offer – vibrant and modern cities as well as sleepy colonial towns full of atmosphere. Brazil has also been blessed with an abundance of natural wonders; thousand of miles of magnificent coastline; the breathtaking Iguassu Falls and the Amazon, which covers nearly half of Brazilian territory. On this itinerary you will take a fascinating cruise on the new ‘Amazon Clipper Premium’ a comfortable base from which you will take trips in motorised canoe to explore the smaller tributaries.
• All flights as shown in economy class
• First class accommodation throughout
• Ocean view rooms in Rio overlooking the famous Copacabana Beach
• Breakfast daily and full board in the Amazon
• Private transfers throughout
• Private sightseeing as shown with local English speaking guides including entrance fees (except in Rio where sightseeing is on a shared basis)
• Airport taxes
• Weekly departure throughout the year on Saturday. No departures between 22 January and 14 February and 15 to 31 December.

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Day 1 Leave London Heathrow in the evening by TAM Airlines flight to Rio de Janeiro.

Day 2 On arrival in Rio you will be met and transferred to the Rio Internacional Hotel. Stay here for 3 nights in an Ocean View room. The rest of the day is free.

Day 3 After breakfast, you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the Cosme Velho Train Station. Here you will take a cogwheel train (sit on the right hand side for better views) which takes you through the Tijuca Rain Forest to the station near the foot of the statue of Christ the Redeemer. At 2,300ft above sea level, the views from the summit are breathtaking (weather permitting). Return to Rio via some of the beaches which Rio is famous for. After lunch, visit to Sugar Loaf Mountain. This tour begins with a city panoramic view through downtown Rio, passing by the Sambodrome, the pyramid Metropolitan Cathedral, the traditional Cinelândia square with its historic buildings, the Municipal Theatre, the National Library and the National Museum of Fine Arts. Later, you will be transferred to the district of Urca where you take the first of two cable cars to Sugar Loaf Mountain. The first cable car takes you to Urca Hill, 215 meters high offering great views of Guanabara Bay and its islands, the Rio-Niterói bridge and Corcovado hill. From here, continue your ascent to the summit, a further 395 meters, from where (weather permitting), you can enjoy views of Copacabana beach, the Santa Cruz fortress and some beaches of Niterói.

(Please note these excursions operate on a seat-in-coach basis (e.g. Gray Line Excursion).

Day 4 At leisure. Further sightseeing can be booked locally.

Day 5 After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport. Fly to Manaus (0845-1200). On arrival, you will be met and transferred to the Tropical Hotel landing stage. Embark on the Amazon Clipper Premium for a 3 night cruise, mainly on the Rio Negro and its tributaries.

After a welcome drink, sail upstream to the Ariau River (a tributary of the River Negro). Before sunset, you will have a short canoe trip, returning after dark, where you will have the possibility of observing nocturnal animals and perceiving the change in the forest as night falls. Dinner.

Day 6 After breakfast, you will have a walk in the forest where you can see the local flora and see a "Caboclo" family where you have the opportunity to see the local way of life. After lunch, navigate through the Anavilhanas, the world's largest fresh water archipelago, more then 1000 miles from the ocean. Visit the village of Novo Airão, with its handcraft boat yards, sawmills, market and other activities. After dinner, you have a night trip to see caimans and possibly frogs, sloth’s, snakes and other species, depending on the season.

Day 7 Sail to Praia Grande (or similar white sand beach), where, if conditions permit you can swim. Alternatively, see the vegetation of sandy areas. Also, have a canoe trip in Lake Acajituba or adjacent lake domains to see typical flora (rubber trees, Brazil nuts, useful palm trees of various types). You will also stop at the Piracatuba Community to see the old abandoned rubber-boom buildings, now overgrown with strangler fig trees.

Day 8 Early morning bird watching at Lake January and Eco-reserve. Here you can also discover the flood plain forest and lakes with giant water lilies (in season). After breakfast, return to Manaus, sailing via the "Meeting of the Waters" and as you approach the city, enjoy good views of the waterfront.

Disembark where you will be transferred to the airport. Fly via Sao Paulo to Iguassu Falls. On arrival in the late evening, you will be met and transferred to the Das Cataratas Hotel. Stay here for 2 nights.

Day 9 Free.

Day 10 The morning is free. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport. Fly to Sao Paulo where you connect with your onward overnight flight on TAM Airlines to London Heathrow. (Alternatively, extend your stay in Brazil).

Day 11 Early afternoon arrival at Terminal 3

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GRAND TOUR OF SOUTH AMERICA

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Day 1 Fly Iberia Heathrow to Quito. Transfer to Swissotel Hotel for 2 nights.

Day 2 At leisure.

Day 3 Fly to Galapagos. Transfer to the M/V Santa Cruz for 4 nights. Visit to Santa Cruz.

Day 4 Visit Bartolomé Island Afternoon outing to Puerto Egas

Day 5 Visit to Darwin Bay. Later visit North Seymour Island

Day 6 Visit to Santa Fe Island. Afternoon visit to Scalesia forest.

Day 7 Visit Cerro Colorado. Fly back to Guayaquil on mainland. Then fly to Lima and transfer to Sonesta El Olivar for overnight.

Day 8 Fly to Cusco and visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Overnight at the Pakaritampu Hotel.

Day 9 Train to Machu Picchu, then Overnight at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Hotel.

Day 10 Morning at leisure. Return to Cusco by train and transfer to Libertador Hotel for 2 nights

Day 11 City tour of Cusco.

Day 12 Full day train journey Cusco to Puno. Transfer to Libertador Isla Esteves Hotel for overnight.

Day 13 Travel into Bolivia. Visit Shrine of Indian Virgin and Pilcocaina Sun Temple. Overnight at Posada del Inca Eco Lodge

Day 14 Visit Inca Steps and Sacred Fountain. Return to La Paz. Overnight at Hotel Europa.

Day 15 Tour of La Paz. Fly to Sucre for 3 nights at Hostal de su Merced. Day 16 Full day excursion to Indian market at Tarabuco.

Day 17 Full day excursion to Potosi the highest city of its size in the world.

Day 18 Fly to Santa Cruz for overnight at Hotel Los Tajibos. Visit Zoo and “la Casa de la Cultura”.

Day 19 Fly to Iguassu, 2 nights at Das Cataratas Hotel.

Day 20 At leisure.

Day 21 Fly to Rio. 3 nights at Rio Internacional Hotel in Ocean View rooms.

Day 22 Visits to Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountain plus beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Sightseeing on group basis.

Day 23 At leisure.

Day 24 Fly Iberia, Rio to Heathrow.

Day 25 Arrive Heathrow.

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