a travel professional’s guide to South America

Abercrombie & KentARGENTINA, CHILE, ECUADOR & PERU

Our offices in South America

SERVICES OFFERED

• Experts in handling Individuals, Groups, Incentives, Special Interest and Active programmes.• Domestic and Regional services (within South America), air tickets available.• Credit cards welcome; net or commissionable tour prices - you choose.• Exclusive shore excursions or pre and post experiences for Cruise guests.• Our regional coverage allows us to operate services in Colombia, Bolivia, Uruguay and Brazil, when in combination with one of our four main destinations.• Best rates and conditions at top hotels in South America with unique amenities offered in many properties.• Complete welcome pack with maps, restaurant guides, destination information, and postcard of sites included in the itinerary.

A&K LimaA&K Quito A&K Operations Team CuscoA&K SantiagoA&K Buenos Aires

Something incredible is happening south of the Equator. Yesterday, South America was something of a travel secret. Today, it’s a travel phenomenon.

It’s easy to see why. South America offers something for everyone, from rainfor-est safaris to untouched wilderness and archaeological exploration. Whether your destination is Machu Picchu, Patagonia, the Galapagos or Buenos Aires, you’ll be asking yourself “why didn’t I think of coming here before?”

Abercrombie & Kent was the first international tour operator to open a net-work of offices in South America and we continue to grow with the destina-tion. We are the leading local supplier of five-star travel to the area, with 5 offices in Lima, Cusco, Quito, Buenos Aires and Santiago, and 133 full time staff in the whole region.

Managed by teams with extensive operating experience, our local offices ensure that Abercrombie & Kent guests experience South America stress-free, and in true style and comfort.

Let us help you explore the wonders of the region and show you the A&K difference in South America.

Geoffrey KentFounder & Executive Chairman


A&K IN SOUTH AMERICA - YOUR REGIONAL SOLUTION

YOUR KEY CONTACTS

Mario Muzzio Regional Managing DirectorA&K South America

Verónica Curtis Country ManagerA&K Argentina

Rodrigo Custodio Country ManagerA&K Peru

Margarita Sánchez Country ManagerA&K Ecuador

Brigitte LämmleCountry ManagerA&K Chile

Javier EchecoparProduct Development ManagerA&K South America

Dalia GibuRegional Sales DirectorA&K South America

Mario has a vast experience in the DMC field. He dedi-cated 20 years to one of the main incoming agencies in South America and he became the office General Man-ager. As a valued member of this agency, Mario exceed-ed the local responsibilities and played a regional role. This regional experience and vision he is now bringing to A&K South America. [email protected]

Veonica has travelled around the world, visiting Jamaica, the UK, Italy and the USA, for many years. From her journeys she gained great experience at the inbound cruise business, where she worked in for 8 years. She is a pioneer, opening the A&K’s office in Argentina in 2005. She has led the office to grow from 3 people into one of the most important luxury DMCs in the country. [email protected]

Rodrigo, Vice President of the Peruvian Association of Receptive and Internal Tour-ism, joined A&K Peru backed on a 25-year-career dedicated to inbound tourism. With extensive knowledge of Peru’s lesser visited regions, a passion for conservation and his dedication to develop new opportunities, Rodrigo provides cutting edge ideas for itineraries in this extraordinary country. [email protected]

Margarita opened the A&K Ecuador office in 2004 and brings with her a wealth of expertise gained from over a decade of experience in Ecuadorian tourism. A former guide, Margarita has traveled extensively within this small but enthralling country, and can suggest original ideas for even the most demanding of clients. [email protected]

Brigitte, was born in Germany, and started her outstanding travel-expert career in 2001. Now, with 15 years of experience in the field, which include working for local and luxury DMCs, Brigitte brings to A&K a great deal ofexperience, deep passion for travel and the wish for the world to know all the beautiful things that Chile’s got to offer, which is what made her fall in love with this facinating country in the first place! [email protected]

Born in Peru, but brought up into the USA and Chile, Javier brings extensive local knowledge to A&K.With a background in luxury travel, that includes working for the Ritz-Carlton and running his own company ded-icated to photographic journeys, he knows all the best places to go to, continent-wide.

[email protected]

Dalia has two masters degrees, one of the from the Uni-versity of Alicante, and 16 years of experience in the field, including working in Mexico as a wedding planner for a 5 star resort and as Sales Manager in Peru for top luxury lodges and Amazon Boats. She is an adventurous travel-er, bringing great energy, vision and extensive destination knowledge to our A&K team. [email protected]

Learn of living cultures during a ceremony with a local Shaman Delight of polo lessons with some of Argentina’s top players Discover the magic of Rapa Nui culture in Easter Island

UNIQUE SELLING POINTSWe recognize that each group of individuals is different, so we pride ourselves on offering maximum creative energy that goes into each and every group we handle. Big or small we aim to far exceed our clients’ travel expectations in South America.• Local A&K representatives can meet your clients at the door of the plane upon arrival into Santiago and guide them through cus-toms and immigration.• A distinctive ‘Guardian Angel Service’ in the Cusco and Galapagos area means an A&K employee is assigned to person-ally look after each and every aspect of a client’s visit.

• A regional outlook allows cross border itinerary bookings through one point of contact. This means a more efficient booking process and a faster turnaround time for your clients.• Our unique regional presence allows us to provide seamless service when travelling from one country to another.• A&K supports numerous worthy regional philanthropic causes, all of which can be visited for a greater focus on ‘Meaningful Travel’.

Peninsula ValdesProbably the premier marine mammal viewing site in the world, with sea elephants, sea lions, whales, killer whales or orcas (August to November), penguins and beautiful bird life regularly seen.

SPORTS AND ADVENTURE

For those seeking a more adventurous trip, Argentina has a lot to offer: horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, rafting, fishing, bird-watching, ranch farming and a huge variety of exclusive sports such as tennis, polo & golf.

SHOPPING

Buenos Aires is one of the most attractive cities for shopping, well known for its leather goods, local jewels and recognized Argentinean designers.

BEST TIME TO GO

High season is October to March. However many destinations such as Iguazu, Mendoza, and Buenos Aires are all year round. On the other hand, skiing in Bariloche or whale-watching in Peninsula Valdes are only available between August and November.


A&K IN ARGENTINA

ABOUT ARGENTINA

A country with diverse climate and topography, Argentina is the 8th largest country in the world and approximately one third the size of Europe. From Iguazu Falls, in the north, through cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, to magnificent Patagonia in the South, the Land of the Gaucho offers much to excite the interest of any visitor.

PRINCIPAL SIGHTS

Buenos AiresBuenos Aires is a sophisticated city with friendly people and a European level of infrastructure offering something for everyone. A minimum of 3 days, with touring, Tango, and a day at leisure for shopping is recommended; however we also advice taking an extra day to visit Argentina’s close

neighbor, Uruguay where you will be able to visit some of the quaint places that compose this lovely culture.

Ushuaia and Tierra de FuegoUshuaia is the world’s southernmost city, and a perfect base for explorations in pristine national parks, crystalline lakes and astounding fjord landscapes. It is also an embarkation port for trips to Antarctica.

Iguazu FallsIguazu means ‘Great Waters’ in the local Guarani language and they are located on the Argentinean/Brazilian/Paraguayan border. The Falls themselves comprise a wide gorge with 275 separate waterfalls dropping some 240 feet (75mts). The thunderous roar of crashing water and multi-coloured mist rising above the falls, make for an unforgettable visit.

Mendoza–Wine RegionThe climate and soil here have made the vineyards famous, for which Mendozan wine is cherished across the country and exported throughout the world; and it is, as well, a gateway to Chile over the mighty Andes.

San Carlos de Bariloche–The Lake District A two hour flight South-West of Buenos Aires, with a beautiful overview of the Andes spreading into a mountainous lake area of gorgeous scenic contrasts. Skiing (in winter), golf, trekking or fly-fishing, are popular activities in this area.

Salta & the NorthwestThe Argentinean northwest, cradle of Torrontés, the emblematic Argentinean white wine,. is also well known for its contrast of colours and its unique geography that ranges from the mountain desert to the subtropical forest. There are a number of beautiful valleys and rivers here, where lots of amusing activities, such as: rafting, biking or trekking with llamas, just to mention a few, can be done. This beautiful region offers the opportunity of a closer encounter with nature and the Andean culture.

El Calafate & El ChaltenThe great Andes mountain range creeps gradually closer as it approaches the Magellan Strait, south of the country, and Patagonia becomes a spectacle of towering mountains, foaming rivers, growing glaciers and gentle creeks. There is nothing more exciting than nature seen in this marvelously wild country.

Visa Requirements: Canadian, Mexican, Australian and most Western European citizens do not require visas. However, a reciprocity fee will be charged on arrival to the citizens of the USA(US$140*), Australia (US$100*) and Canada (US$75).*Subject to change.

Health Requirements: None

& MOMENTS AND INSIDER ACCESS ARGENTINA

1. Visit beautiful Mendoza, Argentina’s famous wine region, and enjoy the lifetime opportunity of accessing exclusive wineries where you can actually become involved in one of Argentina’s premium wine blending activities.

2. Meet Angel Estrada, uncle of arguably the world’s best polo player. Angel can receive guests in his estancia, where he has a private polo field, or he can also take them to the exclusive Jockey Club in Buenos Aires.

3. Sit back and enjoy a simply perfect picnic, especially organized for you not to worry about a single thing but to relax and take pleasure in the magnificent landscapes of the Lake District.

Average Days with Rainfall

Temperature ChartF° C°


From trekking in the Andes to horse-back riding across the Patagonian Pampas, or fly-fishing in the purest of rivers to skiing with a view of the Pacific Ocean, Chile is an adventurer’s paradise. For birdwatchers there are more than 460 species. Chile also boasts a list of fine golf courses

SHOPPING

Chile is one of only 2 countries in the world where lapis lazuli is mined, providing some breathtakingly unique jewelery and handicrafts for visitors. Other typical souvenirs include hand-made woolen goods from the South , hand carvings from Easter Island, items made from copper, and of course wine, which is renowned worldwide for its quality and bargain prices.

BEST TIME TO GO

While peak season is from November to March, Chile is blessed with a climate that makes it a genuine year-round destination. Discover Patagonia or The Lakes in shoulder season, or combine the sublime beauty of Atacama in winter, with skiing in the Central Valley for a truly breath-taking contrast.

ABOUT CHILE

Known as the Land of Fire and Ice, on account of its fiery deserts, active volcanoes and icy glaciers, Chile is a country of geographical contrasts, and natural wonders. With a length of 2,700 miles (4,345km) and an average width of only 120 miles (190km), Chile offers huge geographical and cultural diversity from the modern, cosmopolitan nature of its capital city to the rich traditions of its indigenous cultures.

PRINCIPAL SIGHTS

SantiagoBlessed with a Mediterranean climate, Santiago lies close to vineyards, ski resorts and the coast. It offers all the amenities and excitement of a modern capital city, and has one of the most accomplished infrastructures in Latin America.


A&K IN CHILE

Visa Requirements: American, Canadian, Australian and most European citizens do not require visas. How-ever, a reciprocity fee will be charged on arrival to the citizens of Australia (USD 117) and Mexico (USD 23) *Subject to change.

Health Requirements: None

Atacama DesertThe driest desert in the world, offering clear night skies, amazing scenery, numerous activities and year round good weather, as well as many archaeological and geological interests.

Easter IslandEaster Island or Rapa Nui is a stunning, open-air museum. Home to the Moais (carved stone figures) and impressive Ahus (religious temples) that attract visitors to the 100 square mile island (259 square km). The sub-tropical climate, clear waters, and hospitality of its inhabitants, are further ingredients that make for an unforgettable experience in such a unique destination. However, this beautiful island offers the opportunity to do much more, thanks to our newly designed programs that allow you to go quad biking on your own, or have a deeper experience by taking part of traditional activities that will allow you to learn from the locals and their fascinating culture.

The Lake DistrictA land of snow-capped volcanoes, crystalline rivers and rapids, ancient native rainforest, rolling valleys, and vast mirror-like lakes. It is a genuine natural playground and a paradise for soft adventure and nature lovers, with some of the world’s finest fly-fishing waters, and breathtaking backdrops.

The Island of ChiloeSouth of Chile, this island will transport you back in time. Rolling bright green hills are occasionally interrupted by beautiful wooden churches that are scattered all over the island. Enjoy fresh oysters at Caulin or meet its people and take in their lifestyle and customs by visiting the wooden churches and exploring the towns built on stilt houses. While in Chiloe the isle of Punihuil can be visited. This is the only place in Chile where breeding colonies of Humboldt and Magellan penguins can be found. The island can be accessed by sea or by air with flights to and from Puerto Montt. Chiloe offers an authentic off-the-beaten path destination with countless unique cultural aspects set in a pristine natural environment.

PatagoniaPatagonia is one of the world’s most untamed destinations. Near the southern tip of the globe, with its vast expanses of pampas, impressive mountains and sheer, rugged beauty, this is the perfect setting for journeys of discovery and adventure. The Torres del Paine National Park and Cape Horn are the main attractions.

& MOMENTS AND INSIDER ACCESS CHILE

1. Blend your own wine at one of Chile’s top vineyards before having it bottled with a personalized label and sent out as a gift.

2. Celebrity Chef, Emilio Pescheira will show guests the technique and secrets behind preparing some of Chile’s most well-loved dishes.

3. Be prepared for the unexpected and be wowed by a special evening with the stars. In this brand new expedition, we will take you into the middle of the mighty Atacama where you will dine alfresco to the sounds of a crackling fire, but this is definitely more glamping style than camp-fire cowboy.




Ecuador’s climate allows year-round trekking, hiking, mountain biking, rafting, kayaking, surfing and horseback riding in remote and unspoilt settings.

SHOPPING

Best buys include ponchos, hand-knitted and embroidered clothing, hand-woven rugs and tapestries, Panama hats (an originally Ecuadorian handcraft), jewelery, ceramics, art, leather and woodcarvings.

BEST TIME TO GO

There are good conditions all year round. However we do recommend to visit: Mainland Ecuador - June to October.Galapagos Islands - December to May.caimans, anacondas, otters, monkeys and jaguars are

just some of the things that can be found, making it a true paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers in general.

The Avenue of VolcanoesSouth of Quito is the Avenue of Volcanoes, where mounts Antisana, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Sangay and beautiful Mount Cotopaxi sit. This last one dominates the landscape of the National Park of the same name, where llamas graze and high elevation bird species, including the Andean Condor can be seen.

CuencaA colonial city declared a World Heritage Site in December 1999. With its colonial art museums, Cuenca is also a leading craft-producing center of ceramics, jewelery, embroidery and the famous Panama hat.

Galapagos IslandsThis Archipelago, 1000 km (600 miles) off Ecuador’s coast, created by undersea volcanic activity six million years ago, comprises 13 major islands, 6 small ones, and scores of islets, all protected as one large National Park. In 1835, the English Naturalist, Charles Darwin visited this “living laboratory” which inspired his writings on the Theory of Evolution. Many animals on the Galapagos Islands have developed into endemic species only found there, and because they have never experienced people as a predator, they show no fear towards humans. Some activities include zodiac rides, walks, surfing and snorkeling and, amongst the plethora of unique wildlife, you will share with sea lions, albatross, marine and land iguanas, giant tortoises and blue footed boobies, to name a few.

ABOUT ECUADOR

From pearly beaches on the pacific through magical rain forests in the Amazon,. snow-capped mountains and volcanoes on the Andes, quaint colonial villages and sophisticated cities to the wondrously unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador is the perfect setting for a truly unforgettable vacation.

PRINCIPAL SIGHTS

Quito and the surrounding areasOnce the northern capital of the Inca Empire and then a center for European expansion, Quito’s diverse architecture and cultural mix make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy its churches and old colonial history, or visit the Equator - only a 30 minute drive away.

Northern HighlandsThe Otavalo Indians are famous for their outdoor markets where ponchos, embroidered blouses, ceramics, wall hangings and native jewelery can be purchased. One of the benefits of the Northern Highlands, besides the wonderful settings, is the possibility of visiting or staying in dream-like haciendas, where nature perfectly blends with comfort and relaxation for a perfect trip.

AmazoniaThe most biodiverse place on the planet! The Ecuadorian Amazonia combines a great variety of flora and fauna, among which colorful toucans, macaws, parakeets,


A&K IN ECUADOR

& MOMENTS AND INSIDER ACCESS ECUADOR

1. Visit the breath-taking private colonial art collection of Oswaldo Viteri, an artist that has presented over 170 exhibitions throughout the world.

2. Witness a spinning top demonstration with Jorge Rivadeneira, who has made tops since he was a child, at his father workshop, with hand-working tools. Now, as a grown up he dedicates his life to tops and opens the doors to his workshop for us to see.

3. Learn about the different types of honeys by tasting them during an interesting visit to Quito’s Botanical Gardens.

Visa Requirements: American, Canadian, Chinese, and most European citizens are automatically issued with a visa on arrival. Guatemalan, Salvadoran and Belizean citizens require a visa prior to visiting Ecuador. For oth-er nationalities and more up to date information, please check with your local embassy.

Health Requirements: We recommend discussing in-oculations with you doctor. Although the Yellow Fever vaccination is not mandatory it’s recommended if you visit the Amazon. Travellers with heart conditions or high blood pressure should check with their physicians about high-altitude travel.



caymans and jaguars, as well as 13 species of monkeys, and countless species of flora. The two main areas are: -Iquitos and the northern Amazon: where you can find excellent accommodation and impressive luxury river cruising services. -Puerto Maldonado, Many and the Southern Amazon: where you can experience the best wildlife adventures.

Northern Peru - Trujillo, Chiclayo & CajamarcaOne of the most under estimated regions for tourists is the North of Peru. Archaeological sites that can be found here include the Lord of Sipan, the answer of the Americas’ to Egypt’s King Tut.


Peru offers an ideal base for active holidaymakers. Try both trekking and climbing (there are 29 peaks over 16,000 ft – 4,800m in the Cordillera Blanca National Park).

SHOPPING

Beautiful jewelery – Peru is the top gold producer in Latin America, and the world’s second largest producer of silver.

BEST TIME TO GO

Traditional High Season is April to September, due to better climatic conditions in the Andes, however many prefer to travel between October and March, enjoying Lima’s spring, and much less crowded archaeological sites.

Incas, an archaeological activity center. A minimum of 4 to 5 days is recommended to explore the area.

Arequipa Known as “The White City”, due to the white volcanic rock that abounds in the area. This beautiful colonial city is also the gateway to the Colca Canyon where some of best Condor viewing can be found in one of the world’s deepest canyons.

Puno and TiticacaPuno is located in eastern Peru, close to the Bolivian border, on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. The lake is best known for its floating reed, Uros islands, and isolated populations, which are of great cultural interest.

Southern Coast - Paracas, Ica and Nazca A mixture of marine wildlife (Paracas), agriculture and pre-Inca culture (Ica), and archaeological wonders (Nazca Lines), are all within easy reach of Lima by vehicle.

AmazoniaThe world’s largest rainforest, this biologically diverse region is also home to more plant and animal species than any other area in the tropics. In the Peruvian Amazon alone there are 1700 species of birds, including spectacular macaws,

ABOUT PERU

The Land of the Incas offers amazing archaeological sites such as Machu Picchu, the mighty Andes and the unexplored Amazon, which combined with museums, historic buildings, awarded restaurants, archaeological sites and friendly hospitality, will make for a simply unforgettable Peru experience.

PRINCIPAL SIGHTS

LimaConsidered the capital of gastronomy in the Americas, and combined with its mixture of old-world grandeur, and new world hustle, the city itself becomes a treasure that no guest wants to miss out. Lima’s museums, historic buildings, awarded restaurants, archaeological sites and cultural interests confirm why it’s a top destination in the continent .

Cusco, The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Cusco, the former Inca Capital, is packed with historical and archaeological wonders, interwoven with 500-year-old European churches. It is also the gateway to the Lost City of Machu Picchu via the famous Sacred Valley of the


A&K IN PERU

Visa Requirements: American, Canadian, and most European citizens are automatically issued with a visa on arrival. For other nationalities and the most up to date information, please check with your local embassy.

Health Requirements: There is no mandatory health requirements for Peru, however a Yellow Fever certificate is recommended if visiting certain jungle areas. Tetanus, Polio, and Hepatitis A are usually advised. Clients with heart conditions should consult a physician before travel-ing, due to the altitudes involved in several of the key Peruvian sights.

& MOMENTS AND INSIDER ACCESS PERU

1. Visit a local market where we will talk with our favorite vendors about the variety of seasonal and local ingredients. Then we will head to Barranco, a district known for its bohemian character and home to famous Peruvian writers of the 20th century. After we leave the groceries in the apartment of a recognized chef, you will start with an introduction to Peruvian food.

2. A&K offers you the chance to learn about the jewel in the crown of Latin America’s archaeological legacy from a renowned Archae-ologist or Anthropologist. They will give you an exclusive expert insight into the history of Machu Picchu, the mystery surrounding its use and demise, and into current work and research being undertaken in the complex.

3. Peru has produced some great photographers in its time and one of its finest is undoubtedly Martin Chambi - the first profes-sional photographer to visit Machu Picchu following its rediscovery in 1911. Abercrombie & Kent can provide exclusive access to Martin’s grandson Teo’s studio who has the original collection of photographs from Machu Picchu as well as a fascinating collection documenting Cusco in the early 20th century.



SUGGESTED REGIONAL ITINERARIES

ARGENTINA ECUADORCHILE

ARGENTINA & CHILE

PERU

ECUADOR & PERU

Florida 878, 1st Floor, office 4C1005AAK, Buenos Aires

Tel: +54 (11) 5238 9841

[email protected]

Av. Providencia 2286, 4th floor,office 401, 7510036Providencia, Santiago

Tel: +56 (2) 334 [email protected]

Level 3, 290 Coventry StSouth Melbourne, VIC, 3205

Tel: 1300 851 800 / + 61 (0)3 9536 1800www.abercrombiekent.com.au

Av. República de El Salvador 3684 y Av. Naciones Unidas,

edificio Quilate, 8th floor, QuitoTel: +593 (2) 603 0400

[email protected]

411 Opus Place, Executive Towers West II, Ste 300Downers Grove, IL 60515-1098

Tel: +1 (630) 725 3400 / +1 (800) 323 7308www.abercrombiekent.com

Calle Samuel Velarde, 134 Urb. Orrantia,

Magdalena del Mar, Lima Tel: +51 (1) 201 9500

[email protected]

St Georges House, Ambrose StreetCheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 3LG

Tel: 0845 322 0498 / +44 (0) 1242 547700www.abercrombiekent.co.uk

ARGENTINA CHILE

A&K AUSTRALIA

ECUADOR

A&K USA

www.akdmc.com

PERU

A&K UK

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DESTINATION DESTINATIONBuenos Aires

Buenos Aires Lima

Santiago

Patagonia Quito

Quito Lima

Bariloche

Ushuaia Cusco

Lake District

Lake District Galapagos

Galapagos Cusco

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls Machu Picchu

Wine Country

Patagonia Galapagos

Cotopaxi Sacred Valley

Bariloche

Cruising the Fjords Quito

Patagonia

Santiago Galapagos/Galapagos

Galapagos Amazonia

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires Sacred Valley

Valparaiso

Patagonia Galapagos

Quito Sacred Valley

Bariloche

Cruising the Fjords Lima

Patagonia

Santiago Galapagos

Galapagos Cusco

Iguazu Falls

Buenos Aires Cusco

Lake District

Lake District Galapagos

Galapagos Machu Picchu

Calafate Patagonia Galapagos AmazoniaCalafate Patagonia Otavalo Amazonia

Buenos Aires Santiago Otavalo/Quito Amazonia/Lima


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