ARICA AND ENVIRONS
Famous for its year-round mild climate and sunny days, Arica is referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring." Begin your tour of Arica with a drive through the busy town center en route to its most famous attraction, El Morro, a high bluff overlooking the sea. This is where Chileans won one of the most decisive battles of the War of the Pacific. They succeeded in taking Arica from Peru and eventually made it one of Chile's most important seaside cities. The small Arms Museum housing war memorabilia is located at the plaza atop the hill, which also affords a panoramic view of the town and coast. Heading out of El Morro, proceed to the Azapa Valley, an important olive-growing area. Stop here to visit the interesting San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum, which contains a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and mummies preserved in sand. Dating back to 5,000 BC, the mummies are among the world's oldest, and are especially unique for the artificial method that was used to preserve them.
After departing the museum, continue on to the site of a series of hillside geoglyphs, or Indian rock drawings. Upon returning to town, pause for refreshments at a nearby restaurant with an excellent view, followed by a visit of the Gothic Church of San Marcos at the base of El Morro in Colon Square. Built in 1869 to replace another from 1640, which was swept into the sea by a tidal wave, this church was shipped "pre-fab" from England, complete with an iron steeple designed by Eiffel years before his famous Paris tower. Except for the wooden doors, the church is constructed entirely of metal.
LAUCA NATIONAL PARK
Depart the pier to discover the fascinating beauty of Lauca National Park. The spectacular and diverse scenery distinguished by exotic flora and wild fauna includes vicunas, alpacas, and Andean flamingos among many other species - a veritable nature lover's paradise.
Take the international road to Bolivia, which passes through Poconchile, an old town dating from pre-Inca times, and Putre, before arriving at the entrance of the park. Located here at almost 15,000 feet above sea level is the highest lake in the world, Lake Chungara. The road runs along the Taipicahue stream, with a narrow bofedal (wet spongy ground, rich with grass) where vicuna flocks feed. Shy vizcachas, a type of large hare with a fox tail, can be spotted, as well as large white-breasted geese with black-tipped wings called guayatas. Continuing on, you find the Cotacotani lagoons, a myriad of interconnected emerald-green lagoons surrounded by bofedals. This area illustrates the effect of water flow being blocked by volcanic eruptions. Arriving at Lake Chungara admire the beauty of the lake, its sparkling blue waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks - Parinacota, Sajama, Quisiquisini, Quimsachata, and the smoking Guallatire volcano. Observe a diverse range of native bird life including the giant coots that build their nests on the water. Mid-day, a savory luncheon is served at a restaurant in Putre.
Notes: Because of high altitudes, this tour is not suitable for guests with heart or respiratory problems. This tour involves driving over many steep, winding roads, and moderate walking over uneven surfaces and pathways. Sun protection is recommended.
MAN IN THE DESERT
As the northernmost city of Chile, Arica has throughout history enjoyed a commercial and cultural exchange with the peoples of the high plateau, now Peru and Bolivia. For almost 10,000 years, man has inhabited this land of the Atacama Desert, the driest in the world. Start off first with a visit to Colon Square, and the Gothic-style San Marcos Church. Erected in 1876, the church was constructed by the Gustave Eiffel et Cie. Workshops. This structure, prefabricated in iron and with a wooden door, replaced an older church that was swept away by a tidal wave in 1869. Next stop is the Azapa Valley and a visit to San Miguel Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and mummies preserved in sand from ages ago. Dating back to as far as 5000 BC, these, the oldest mummies in the world, are unique for the artificial method of preservation that was used. Here is the perfect place to start learning about the existence of ancestral man in the driest region of the world. Then visit one of the most amazing and enigmatic works of the Andean peoples - the geoglyphs, which are drawings made on the hill slopes either by piling up stones, or scratching the surface of the hillside.
Proceed by coach along the Panamerican Road that leads approximately 13 miles south of the city. Now you are in the true desert, where silence and solitude are one's only companions. In Pampa Chaca, Díaz Fleming, one of the finest sculptors in Chile has created the impressive giant sculptures called the Tutelar Figures. Composed of two groups entitled The Ancestors, and The Origin of the Ancestry, the sculptures were created in homage to the Andean people who crossed the Andes and the desert, and went on to establish an enduring culture. According to Andean tradition, these people were of divine origin, as they were believed to have descended from the sun and the moon. These huge sculptures represent their belief system. As your tour of the Tutelar Figures concludes, reboard your coach for the return drive to the ship. Enhancing this cultural experience, local refreshments including pisco sours and fresh fruits are served along the way.
COLONIAL LIMA AND LARCO HERRERA MUSEUM
Built in the Spanish baroque style of Spanish aristocracy, the “City of Kings” is known for its impressively ornate architecture, including beautifully restored wooden balconies and, in the middle of the Plaza Mayor – the city center, a splendid bronze fountain dating back to 1651. Your tour of colonial Lima first takes you on a panoramic view of the colonial Rimac District, a UNESCO designated World Heritage site. Among the important sites you see are the Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, also known as the House of Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro who worked and lived here until his death in 1541, and the City Hall. From here, a 1/2-block walk through pedestrian area brings you to the Casa Aliaga, South America's best preserved and most interesting colonial mansion, which has been occupied by the same family since 1535. Enjoy a tour and refreshments at the Casa before departing on a walk to San Francisco Monastery, a masterpiece of colonial architecture, where you enjoy a guided tour in the company of a local Peruvian historian.
Reboard your coach to drive to the Larco Herrara Museum. Guests even slightly interested in the art and artifacts of Peru are sure to delight in this visit to one of Peru's premier collections, as well as an opportunity to gather some of your own samples of the beautiful Peruvian culture. Since 1952, the Larco Herrera Museum has offered the largest and most complete collection of Peruvian pre-Columbian art. There are nearly 55,000 pieces displayed throughout the galleries of this lovely colonial house built in 1707. Each gallery contains a diversity of material, techniques and styles used by the ancient Peruvians, from huacas - or Pre-Inca cemeteries, feather work, textiles (one weaving holds the world record of 398 cotton threads per inch), and jewels. The museum also contains a gold gallery, and a small cactus garden. As your visit concludes, return to the ship to stow your memories of this fascinating country.
PACHACAMAC RUINS & THE PASO HORSES
The pre-Columbian temple of Pachacamac pre-dates the Incas by approximately 2,000 years. Built primarily of adobe mud bricks, this vast complex of palaces and temple-pyramids housed an oracle and was considered one of the main ceremonial centers in pre-Hispanic Peru. Pilgrims from all over flocked to the site to pay homage to the creator-god Pachacamac, believed to have been the creator of the world and its creatures. The Inca-built section of the complex (1440-1533) is the most well-preserved, and is comprised of painstakingly restored palaces, plazas and temples. Encircling the top of a low hill, the ruins' crest was crowned by a Temple of the Sun, a large pyramid built of sun-baked bricks. Only from this crest is the massive scale of the entire site apparent. At an on-site museum, a wooden idol found in the original Temple of Pachacamac is on display, as well as an interesting collection of pre-Hispanic relics including ceramics and textiles.
Proceed to Hacienda Mamacona, a private ranch belonging to a Peruvian family, whose hobby is breeding Peruvian Paso Horses. Observe an exhibition of these world renowned horses, as cocktails are served for your pleasure. Your tour culminates with lunch, which is hosted by members of the family, and followed by an opportunity to ride one of the horses around the ranch.
Notes: Comfortable shoes, sun protection and insect repellent are recommended.
MIAMI HIGHLIGHTS & VILLA VIZCAYA
Discover the tropical beauty, international flavor, and unique cosmopolitan atmosphere of Miami and Miami Beach. Catch a glimpse of the impressive yachts and mansions, take in the glitz and glamour of South Beach and the unique Art Deco District, take a drive along Brickell Avenue's towering skyscrapers of Miami's Financial district and enjoy the festive atmosphere of Coconut Grove.
Visit one of South Florida's most impressive National Landmarks, the magnificent Italian-style Villa Vizcaya. Located in a beautiful setting overlooking Biscayne Bay, Vizcaya was the former winter retreat of industrialist James Deering, heir to International Harvester Company. Today, the museum stands as testament to the history of Miami and to the Italian Renaissance period. The artwork and furniture that adorn this previous estate spans over 400 years of European history. The mansion, which took over two years to complete, sits on 180 acres of lush, tropical land. Three architects participated in the estate's creation and 1,000 workers were hired to do the hard labor, which in 1916 represented ten percent of Miami's entire population. Enjoy a tour of the estate and gardens followed by free time to explore the unique gift shop featuring replicas of antique pottery, metalwork and tapestry, as well as Italian crafts and costume jewelry.
Then it is off to the Bohemian village of Coconut Grove, once populated primarily by artists and radicals. The Grove still retains its zany charm and energy, which you experience during approximately an hour of free time to meander its tree lined streets and discover a wide range of unique boutiques, specialty stores and interesting cafes and restaurants. Finally, travel across the causeway and into the hustle and bustle of South Beach; a scenic drive takes you through the eye-catching Art Deco district and all the glitz and glamour of South Beach and Ocean Drive before heading back to the port in Fort Lauderdale.
Notes: This tour is available to guests who are intransit (those remaining onboard and continuing on the next sailing).
VENICE OF AMERICA YACHTING
Take in the sites of Fort Lauderdale from the water as you ply its calm waterways aboard a luxurious yacht, sipping sparkling wine along the way. Board your air-conditioned transportation for a scenic drive of the Fort Lauderdale area en route to your luxury yacht. Your captain and crew welcome you aboard for a private cruise on the New River, and the Intracoastal Waterway. Be treated like royalty as you relax out on deck or inside the beautifully appointed cabin. Sip sparkling wine or mimosas and enjoy canapés as your captain expertly navigates the vessel through the calm, protected waterways. See homes of the rich and famous and enjoy the colorful history of Fort Lauderdale, the Venice of America. As your tour concludes, you are transferred directly to your departure airport, or back to Port Everglades.
Notes: This tour is available to guests who are intransit (those remaining onboard and continuing on the next sailing), or with departing flights from Fort Lauderdale International Airport after 2 pm, or Miami International Airport after 3 pm. Tour is 4 hours in duration for those guests departing from Miami International Airport.
COLONIAL PANAMA & MIRAFLORES LOCKS
This scenic, get acquainted excursion by motorcoach takes you through the streets of the "Old French Quarter of Panama City," founded in 1673 by French colonists. A brief stop is first made in the old center for an encounter with Panamanian History. The ruins of the churches and convents, colonial palaces, bridges and military buildings attest to the city's grandiose past. Over the last 200 years Panama City has experienced many changes, and your tour reveals the many influences evidenced in its architecture, which represent a wonderful blend of French, Spanish and Italian styles. Visit a beautiful vaulted promenade known as Las Bovedas and the French Plaza - in homage to those who built the Panama Canal. Also see some of the city's old houses and other notable sites to be found in the downtown district.
Visit the Miraflores Locks Observation Center where you first view a 12-minute video presentation that introduces you to the locks' rich history. Marvel at this man-made wonder - depending on timing, you may chance to get a birds' eye view of passing ships and the functioning locks from a viewing area on the top floor of this fascinating installation.
Commencing the return drive to the pier, pass by the former Panama Canal Zone where the military installations of the American Administration are a gentle reminder of the strategic importance of this area. Today the former zone is very much intact and appears identical to days gone by when it was under the American Administration.
EMBERA INDIAN VILLAGE
The Emberá Indian tribe is a proud people who have maintained traditions and lifestyles dating back to the pre-Spanish era. Step back 600 years and discover a Central America that only few have experienced. Aboard an air-conditioned vehicle, your knowledgeable guide provides an overview of Panama City as you head toward the jungles of the central region. En route, hear about the history and the customs of the Emberá Indians. On reaching Soberanía National Park, dugout canoes await to transport you on a gentle cruise upstream to the Emberá village. These sturdy craft were instrumental in the conquering of the jungle and in establishing supply lines for both the Indians and the Spanish.
The short trip upriver brings you to the village, seemingly emerging from the jungle as if by magic. Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife, which is active along the river's edge. The chief and local villagers welcome you with authentic traditional hospitality while a dance program is presented in your honor. Wander through the village at your leisure and feel free to ask questions of its inhabitants. As the Emberá Indians are talented craftspeople, you may wish to purchase a keepsake of this unique experience. All too soon, it is time to return to the present day as you reboard your canoe and head back to the ship.
Notes: Embarking and disembarking the local canoes requires a minimum of dexterity and flexibility. The canoe landing location does not have handrails or steps, although there will be many hands available to assist you into and out of the vessel. Please bring currency in small denominations if you wish to purchase items directly from the local craftspeople.
PANAMA'S HISTORY IN GOLD
When Columbus first landed on the shores of Panama in 1502 he was so impressed by the immense amount of gold worn by the natives that he wrote in his journal, "In this land of Veragua I saw more gold in the first two days than I saw in Española in four years." This tour offers the opportunity to get acquainted with the local history and many cultural facets that shape the country of Panama.
Learn about the "lost wax process," a signature trademark in artisanship created by Reprosa, a 25-year-old company that has the exclusive reproduction rights of pre-Colombian treasures, known as Huacas, from the National Anthropology Museum in Panama. The different collections consist of the Orchids of Panama, The Pre-Colombian Era, The Terracotta Collection, The Ocean Treasures of the New World, and the famous Spanish Colonial gold and freshwater pearl design known as the Mosqueta, worn exclusively on the Pollera, the national dress of Panama.
Your tour also includes a visit to the ruins of Panama La Vieja, or "Old Panama," and the newly erected museum that highlights various archaeological finds of the pre-Hispanic and Colonial eras. The museum has an audio-visual section and a recreational plaza that overlooks the Bay of Panama. Here you may be fortunate enough to observe routine excavations by museum specialists who continue to unveil hidden treasures beneath years of accumulated sediment in the bay.
THE SHAPING OF PANAMA
The image conjured by Panama is generally that of its spectacular canal, considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world. However, few know of the amazing history of glory and tragedy that came to shape this country, once known as the Pearl of the Pacific. "Old Panama" was founded in 1519 and later destroyed in 1671 by the infamous Welsh Captain Henry Morgan. This scenic get acquainted excursion takes you to see the ruins of the old churches and convents, colonial palaces, bridges, and military buildings that attest to the grandiose past of this city. Pause for a photo opportunity at a living museum before proceeding along the road that leads you past many historic monuments and sites. A short detour is also made into the upscale neighborhood of Golf Heights, including a drive past the former residence of the infamous General Manuel Noriega.
As you make your way along the coastline to El Casco Antiguo, listen to the tales of gallantry and piracy that wait in the narrow streets of Colonial Panama, known as Casco Antiguo. Visit a beautiful vaulted promenade known as Las Bovedas, and the French Plaza memorializing those who built the canal. Old houses and other interesting sites are also to be found in the downtown district. Take in the changing faces of the city as you view its unique architecture, influenced by a wonderful blend of French, Spanish and Italian styles. Finally, return to the ship with a wonderful appreciation of the old, the Colonial, and the modern Panama and Panama City.
COASTAL HACIENDA
A coastal hacienda offers the opportunity to have a close look at the natural scenery of the tropical lowlands of Ecuador. A 90-minute scenic journey through the Ecuadorian countryside reveals rice paddies, sugar cane plantations, and an array of natural tropical vegetation. Travel along roads dotted with colorful produce and local people as you make your way to the Hacienda el Castillo banana plantation, which has its own packing plant. During your visit of the hacienda, plantation, and banana processing facilities, also observe the production of cocoa and coffee, and enjoy a tasting of fresh tropical fruits. Relish an authentic hacienda lunch before it is time to commence the return to the pier.
Notes: Light comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, sun protection, and insect repellant are recommended. Please do not wear perfumes, creams or other aromatic products, which may attract unwanted pests.
GUAYAQUIL INTRODUCTION
From the pier, travel with your Ecuadorean guide to Parque Seminario, Simon Bolivar, or Iguana Park, a lovely green oasis alive with exotic local wildlife located right within the city. Observe squirrels and iguanas freely roaming the park as if mingling with visitors. Continue along the banks of the Rio Guayas to view the monument commemorating the secret meeting between two of South America's most important 19th-century figures, Simon Bolivar and Jose de San Martin, to plan Peru's liberation. Other highlights you see on this exploration of the city include the elaborate iron market building designed by Gustave Eiffel and imported from France. Finally, a visit to a museum provides insight into the superb wealth of pre-Colombian Ecuadorean arts, including spectacular ceramics, and colonial and modern art that reveal the influence of the past.
Notes: Order of sites visited may vary.
HUMBERSTONE - A VISIT BACK IN TIME
Travel inland from Iquique to discover the well-preserved remains of a once flourishing nitrate town. A 1-hour journey through the coastal range brings you to Humberstone, founded in 1862 near the junction of the Pan-American Highway and the road to Iquique. Having ceased operations in 1960, Humberstone is today a fascinating ghost town that clearly reveals its former prosperous hey-day, and in 2005 was designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Explore the town's remaining buildings around the square, including the theater, a general store, administration buildings and even the old swimming pool, as your guide provides insight into the town's former importance.
Reboard your coach for the return drive to Iquique. On arrival, disembark to walk along the Baquedano Avenue noted for its handsome buildings erected by the nitrate barons. During your panoramic walk, view the Municipal Theater, an opera theater inaugurated in 1890. This attractive Renaissance-style building stands as witness to the refined cultural life of this desert outpost during the nitrate era. Also pass by the Centro Espanol, established in 1904 for the resident Spanish community. Built in Moorish style, the center features a series of large oil paintings depicting scenes of Don Quixote's life. Your tour concludes with a short drive back to the pier.
IQUIQUE CITY HIGHLIGHTS
Get acquainted with the major sites of this pretty town of 280,000 inhabitants along with a scenic drive that shows off Iquique's favorite beach area. Setting out from the pier by motorcoach, first head toward Plaza Arturo Prat where you disembark for a visit of the Municipal Theater. Inaugurated in 1890 as an opera theater, this attractive Renaissance-style building stands as witness to the refined cultural life of this desert outpost during the nitrate era. Over several decades, all renowned artists visiting Chile performed here. Next, a visit of the Regional Museum showcases archaeological and ethnographic exhibits offering insight into the indigenous sierra and high plateau cultures. The museum also features a display documenting the nitrate era.
Depart the museum to commence a walk along the Baquedano Avenue noted for its handsome buildings erected by the nitrate barons. Visit the finest example, the Astoreca Palace, with furniture dating from the nitrate period, and a collection of paintings and seashells. Next visit the Centro Español established in 1904 for the resident Spanish community. Built in Moorish style, the Spanish center features a series of large oil paintings depicting scenes of Don Quixote's life. During your visit of this beautiful building, enjoy a typical Chilean drink. Following this exploration of the town center, proceed on a sightseeing drive south of the city along the scenic Avenida Costanera. En route, pass by the popular beach area of Cavancha before arriving back at the pier.
BALLESTAS ISLANDS
Take a morning cruise by boat to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve. Comprised of numerous flats, beautiful beaches, rocky points, and some of the richest ocean waters on earth, the reserve provides refuge for many species including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and dolphins. While cruising around the islands, plenty of these creatures entertain you with their antics as they sun themselves on the rocks and swim around your boat. Over 200 species of sea birds, both resident and migratory, reside in the incomparable beauty of the reserve. Among those you may have the opportunity to observe are the Andean condor, cormorants, boobies and pelicans. On the return leg back to the pier, pass by the "Candelabro," a giant Nazca-like figure etched into the coastal cliffs.
Notes: This operation of this excursion is subject to weather conditions. Guests are advised to dress for wind and spray as the boat has no cover and the ride may be bumpy in open sea; sun protection and a hat are strongly recommended (as there are often low-flying birds.)
PARACAS DUNES ADVENTURE
Gain an appreciation for the Peruvian desert with this exciting excursion by tubular dune buggy. These specially designed vehicles, driven by expert pilots, allow you to reach places inaccessible to other vehicles while offering relative comfort and security at minimal risk. Once on the dunes, feel the outdoors, enjoying the sun, breeze and landscape in spite of the buggy's protective tubular chassis. The buggy moves freely on all types of terrain enabling it to easily ascend and descend difficult hills or dunes characteristic of the desert. This unforgettable experience promises a combination of adventure, emotion and close contact with nature.
Departing Paracas Bay by car, drive through the town of Pisco and on out to an area of plantations surrounded only by sand. Here your desert adventure begins as you don protective eye wear, strap into your buggy, and within a short time find yourself negotiating dunes of various types, sizes, grades, and heights. Starting at approximately 10 feet, the dunes gradually increase in height before culminating with a gigantic dune of almost 500 feet high. As your tour concludes, commence the return drive to Paracas Bay and your ship.
Notes: Comfortable shoes, clothing and sun protection are recommended. Buggy drivers may not speak English. There are no restroom facilities available on this tour. Participation is very limited.
REVENTAZÓN WHITE WATER RAFTING
Whether you are a first-time or experienced rafter looking for the excitement of big waves, hydraulics, and stunning scenery, then this white-water rafting excursion is for you. Following a safety orientation, the first rapid of the day sets the pace for more to come. As your raft rounds each new bend in this dam-controlled river, you are greeted with yet another breathtaking view of the Reventazón Valley. Keep your eye out for toucans, kingfishers, herons, tanagers, iguanas and bright green "Jesus Christ" lizards that reside in the lush surrounds. After a fun and exhilarating day, complete your trip with a hearty snack served on the river bank. Back at the station, showers, optional drinks and a gift shop are available for your use before it is time to commence the return drive to the pier. An unforgettable adventure!
Notes: Participants must be a minimum of 12 years of age; maximum individual weight is 250 pounds. All participants are required to complete a waiver form. Please bring along a change of clothes and a towel.
TORTUGUERO CANALS & BANANA PLANTATION
Calypso music and a tropical fruit buffet, along with complimentary beverages are a great beginning to this exciting adventure. As you board the boats at a private pier, you are invited to enter one of the most exotic regions in the tropics, the Tortuguero Canals. Known as the Costa Rican Amazons, the canals are a navigable network of lakes and channels that cross Tortuguero National Park from the southeast to the northwest. This allows the great diversity of the fauna and flora of the region to be seen close-up. Part of these canals also serve as waterways for transportation and exploration and have become a means to enjoy all their surrounding nature. Specially designed boats take you through the canals on an approximate 2-hour journey. This tour enables you to admire exceptional flora and fauna in their natural habitats, including orchids, birds, monkeys, toucans, and a seemingly endless diversity of plants and trees.
Following your boat ride, and during the way back to the pier, travel along roads lined with lush banana plantations. Make a stop to visit a banana processing facility for an enlightening look into how bananas are selected, cleaned and prepared for their trip to your breakfast table. Finally, sit back and enjoy the majestic scenery as your coach delivers you back to the pier.
Notes: Be prepared to get wet as sudden rains are common. Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended; please bring along sun protection and insect repellant.
VERAGUA: THE ULTIMATE NATURE EXPERIENCE
Board your air-conditioned motorcoach and head out to Veragua Rainforest, Research and Adventure Park, Costa Rica's newest private rainforest experience. In less than an hour's drive from the pier, you find yourself completely immersed in the breathtaking and vibrant rainforest with amazing panoramic views. This is a world-class sustainable development, whose mission is to provide visitors with the ultimate rainforest experience in the Caribbean part of Costa Rica. Your naturalist guides lead you through the live snake, frog, hummingbird and butterfly exhibits laid out in an unparalleled interactive set-up, and designed with the scientific expertise of the National Biodiversity Institute (INBio), a world renowned research and conservation organization.
Next enter the aerial tram that takes you on an enchanting ride through the canopy level of the rainforest. As you pass by giant 300-year-old trees on the way down to the Trail of the Giants, you are surrounded by uninterrupted views of the virgin rainforest of the largest park in Central America, La Amistad National Park. On reaching the river, disembark the tram and enjoy a leisurely stroll though the Trail of the Giants and the Puma Waterfall, alongside the Victoria River. This trail was so named for the gigantic trees that line the trail, and have watched over the river for centuries.
Reboard you gondola and continue your adventure with a ride back through the rainforest canopy and up to the biological research station. Here you experience the operations of the dedicated researchers and may even have a chance to witness the discovery of new plant and animal species. As this gratifying adventure comes to a close, enjoy a buffet of fresh tropical fruits, a wrap or sandwich, and juice and browse the shop before returning to port.
Notes: Comfortable walking shoes, light clothing and a rain poncho are recommended; please bring along sun protection and insect repellant.
ZIP LINING IN THE RAIN FOREST
Costa Rica is one of the few fortunate countries in the world, which still enjoys the lushness of primary rain forest. It has earned well-deserved international acclaim for having conservationist groups who have come up with innovative initiatives for preservation and made them a reality. This effort allows Costa Rica to be one of the few places around the world that offers the Canopy Tour. Do you dare to get involved in some real "monkey business" and finally find out the true meaning of the expression "hang around?" Can you afford to spend about 100 grams of pure adrenaline and push yourself into the most exciting, original and innovative way to virtually surf through the canopy in a completely natural environment? After a short 30-minute transfer by air-conditioned transportation, enter a whole new dimension of entertainment. Your expert canopy guides teach you all you need to know about the ride and the equipment.
On arriving at the canopy experience site, a safety talk is given. Then drive along one of the property roads and forest trails for about 10 minutes, until you reach the first platform. Here you climb some stairs, ready to face the challenge of "flying" from one platform to another - a total of 9 in all, safely attached to the cables that connect fantastic 100-foot-high trees, sometimes as far as 500 yards away from each other. Enjoy a wonderful rain forest view while contemplating this tropical paradise, home of many exotic birds, beautiful butterflies and much more. As you approach the end, your last descent is from the platform near the ranch facilities. Here, refreshing tropical fruits are served to replenish some of the energy you've left behind in the tropical rain forest treetops.
Notes: Participants must be a minimum of 12 years of age; maximum individual weight is 250 pounds. This is a physically challenging excursion and is recommended for those guests in good physical condition. All participants are required to complete a waiver form. The organizers, at their sole discretion, may decide not to allow a person to participate. It is recommended that you wear comfortable pants, t-shirts, and rubber-soled shoes; bring along insect repellant, and be prepared to get wet as sudden rains are common.
SECRETS OF VALPARAISO
Valparaiso - the very name conjures up images of a glorious, maritime past. This historic port and university town is famous for its labyrinth hills, which are covered in quaint, colorful old houses. The town is accessible only by a steep climb or by the city's unique system of funicular railways. Experience this famous and unique city at street level, taking in its sites, sounds, and vibrancy Highlights include Concepción and Alegre Hills, which were originally settled by German and British immigrants working in the banking and port industries during the golden age of Valparaiso. A two-hour walk about the city includes a stop at the Montealegre Restaurant where you enjoy a refreshing fruit juice, a Pisco sour or a beer accompanied by a roast beef cocktail, cheese cocktail, and a mini cheese cake. Your excursion culminates with a visit to La Sebastiana, the former home of Chilean Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda. The house is full to the brim with the eccentric genius' keepsakes from his many trips abroad, as well as an extensive library. Following this visit, your coach returns you to the pier in Valparaiso.
WINERIES OF THE ACONCAGUA VALLEY
Aconcagua Valley is a generous region of farms and mountains, sun and pure air, with beautiful plains. Once called "aldea donde se pone el sol" (small village where the sun is set) by some, and "valle de Chile" (valley of Chile) by others, its name today - Aconcagua is native in origin and may have come from the Inca words "ackon cahuak," which means "stone sentinel." The river which is used today to irrigate the valley was named in the same way. Located 50 miles northeast of Santiago and 75 miles east of Valparaiso, this land of farms began producing quality wine in 1870. A vigorous Mediterranean-like climate and well defined seasons - plenty of rain in winter, and a sunny summer - contribute to this valley's being one of the most fertile in all of Chile.
Begin your day with a visit to Viña Von Siebenthal, founded by Mauro von Siebenthal, a Swiss lawyer and wine aficionado. Located in the picturesque village of Panquehue, this boutique winery produces only four wines. The elegant mix of state-of-the-art technology and respect for the architectural traditions of the Chilean "casona," is typical of traditional colonial-style country mansions. The house is surrounded by a large garden of native trees, and the bodega, built from traditional materials, including oak, wrought iron and handmade tiles, is designed to accommodate 400 barrels.
Reboard your coach to make the short drive to your next visit, Errázuriz Winery, founded by Don Maximiano Errázuriz in 1870 on land he bought in Panquehue. Once the largest wine producer in the world, Vina Errázuriz now vies for the title of Chile's most beautiful winery and has been producing grapes of the highest quality due to the region's ideal climate. Following your tour of the winery, enjoy a wine tasting of Errázuriz's selection of Sangioveses, Pinots, and Shirazes, complemented by locally made bread and cheese. Afterward, linger on the patio over a delicious country lunch. Refreshed and nourished, reboard your coach for the return drive to the pier in Valparaiso.
