Peru and Polynesia

Founded in 1535, in the days of the Conquest Lima used to be one of the wealthiest, mightiest cities in in South America. Its historic centre (UNESCO World Heritage Site) still boasts the beautiful Plaza Mayor, with the old palaces of politic and religious life. The soul of the city, however, has drifted to the modern towns of Miraflores and San Isidro, and to the lively sea town of Barranco.

Arequipa, rising between the imposing volcanoes El Misti (5,821 m) and Ampato (6,288), is Peru’s second city, and a major business and cultural centre. It owes its long-standing fame to its stunning, high-rise location (2,335 m a.s.l.), to its mild weather, and to its beautiful colonial buildings made of lava stone. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The road to Puno runs across a wild, beautiful landscape, with the occasional lake, village, and small herd of grazing llamas and alpacas. There will be a few photo stops, including the Lagunillas pass (4,410 m) to see the pink flamingos in the lagoon. Puno, rising on the border with Bolivia at a height of 3,810 m, overlooks Lake Titicaca. Though not exceptionally interesting in itself, the town makes for the perfect base to visit the rest of the region.

We cross the Andes, passing a stunning variety of landscapes. Stop at Raqchi, known for the massive walls of an Inca temple built to appease the wrath of the god Viracocha; at the provincial Andahuaylillas, featuring a beautiful 17th-century colonial church; and at the village of Pucarà, famous for its colourful ceramics. The top altitude reached during the journey is 4,335 m, at the La Raya pass. Rising at an height of 3,400 m, Cuczo, once the capital of the Inca empire, was rebuilt by the Spaniards on the vestiges of its ancient palaces, using the remains of the Inca temples and edifices. Today, Cuzco is a lively, fascinating town. Even in the busy summer months, when the Sacred Valley literally swarms with tourists, it preserves its charm.

Aguas Calientes, auch bekannt als Machu Picchu Pueblo, ist eine kleine Stadt am Fuße der berühmten Ruinen von Machu Picchu im Herzen der peruanischen Anden. Sie ist der wichtigste Ausgangspunkt für alle, die die archäologische Stätte von Machu Picchu besuchen möchten. Die Stadt ist von üppigem Tropenwald umgeben und wird vom Fluss Urubamba durchflossen. Sie ist bekannt für ihre natürlichen heißen Quellen, daher auch ihr Name Aguas Calientes", was auf Spanisch heißes Wasser" bedeutet. Aguas Calientes ist eine lebendige und pulsierende Stadt mit einer Vielzahl von Restaurants, Cafés, Kunsthandwerksläden und lokalen Märkten, die eine Vielzahl von traditionellen Produkten und Souvenirs anbieten.

Los Angeles – the land of Hollywood, Disneyland and Universal Studios, where life is as carefree as can be. With its ever-shining sun, palms in the breeze, movie stars with their fancy houses in Beverly Hills, wonderful museums, futuristic buildings, and surfing spots, Los Angeles truly makes for an unforgettable destination.

Papeete is the vibrant capital of French Polynesia. It enchants visitors with its unique mix of Polynesian culture and modern influences. With its bustling streets, colourful markets and lively performances of local dance and music. Don't miss the local handicraft market, and taste Polynesian cuisine in the restaurants and street-side kiosks, or simply stroll along the waterfront to admire the beauty of the harbour.

Only a 30 minute ferry ride from Papeete, the charming island of Moorea is less populated and developed than its famous neighbor. An early morning ferry or plane ride will get to Moorea in time to take a tour (for which you'll need a 4x4 vehicle) of this gorgeous island's north shore, with the awesome view over the picturesque Cook's and Opunohu bays from Le Belvédère lookout. Don't forget to take a four-wheel-drive safari excursion, with a ride into the interior and a dip under a waterfall. After dark you can attend the dance show at Tiki Theatre Villag Spending a day out on the water is a must on Moorea, and every hotel offers a half- or full-day lagoon excursion. The usual route takes you across the water to a motu (small islet) out on the reef for some swimming, snorkeling, and a barbecue lunch that may consist of fish your crew caught on the way out. You may have spotted dolphins playing on your Moorea lagoon excursion, but you'll learn a lot more about these friendly mammals on a trip with a marine biologist.

Day 1: Circle The Island By Water. Jump on jetskis or waterskis and scoot along the smooth lagoon for an exhilarating ride. Charter a powerboat and enjoy stops for snorkeling or a beach picnic. Step foot on a powered canoe and tour the lagoonarium, play with rays, and discover dozens of snorkeling spots. Take sail in a catamaran for a sunset cruise accompanied by local musicians and dancers. End your day at one of the five-star resort restaurants. Day 2: Circle The Island By Air, Climb onboard a helicopter for a breathtaking ride high above this neon-colored world. Strap into a parasail for one or two and glide effortlessly above the lagoon or try kitesurfing. Rent a car, a two person “fun car” or a bicycle for a ride along the flat roads. Celebrate your adventures at one of the famous local restaurants. Day 3: Circle The Island On Land, Shop And Beach Hop 4×4 safari on hidden roads up to overlooks and historical sites. Discover the dozens of shopping areas for art, handicrafts, pearls, and fragrant Tahitian oils. Visit the artisan galleries and pick up your own Bora Bora original. Spend the afternoon enjoying famous Matira Beach or the secluded beaches on one of the many islets surrounding Bora Bora.