Private Tour Highlights
- Setting foot in the magical Inca citadel, Machu Picchu; a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Discovering Cusco, where colonial architecture collides with Incan structures, and visiting the Temple of the Sun: “Korikancha”.
- Stepping through the ethereal Chincana Ruins on Sun Island, boasting sublime views of the sapphire-hued lake.
- Exploring the Moon Valley in the Atacama Desert, with its impressive array of colors and textures.
- Watching as steam rises from the El Tatio Geysers into the sky, magnifying the beauty of the sunrise over the Atacama Desert.
- Witnessing the largest salt flats on earth, Uyuni, which sprawls for 12,000sq km and provides epic photo opportunities!
- Spending the night on Lake Titicaca’s Sun Island, at the exquisite Ecolodge La Estancia which affords unrivaled views over the mountains and lake.
- Marveling at the exquisite colonial architecture and intriguing handicrafts at the street markets of bustling La Paz.
Tour Overview
Take on the Andean Plateau with the Peru, Bolivia and Chile Tour Across the Altiplano. See the historic Peruvian capital of Lima before traveling to Cusco, once the center of the Inca Empire. A breathtaking train ride takes us to Machu Picchu and then we explore Lake Titicaca. You will also visit La Paz, the world’s highest capital, Uyuni, an enormous salt flat expanse and San Pedro de Atacama, the world’s highest and driest desert. The trip ends with two nights in Chile’s metropolitan capital, Santiago.
Your trip starts in Lima, Peru’s capital city overlooking the Pacific Ocean. An awe-inspiring train ride will bring you to Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas. You will experience the birthplace of Manco Capac, the first Inca god, who is said to have risen from the waters of Lake Titicaca. The journey continues in La Paz at 12,000 feet, it is the highest capital in the world. The Uyuni salt flats comprise the biggest salt lake in the world, creating a truly unforgettable experience as they reflect the sapphire-blue Altiplano sky. Traveling over land, we visit Laguna Colorada, geyser “Sol de Mañana,, Chalviri lagoon and its natural hot springs of Polques as we cross the border into Chile to discover San Pedro de Atacama’s scenery. The Andes Mountain range provides a fabulous backdrop to the town. We will also take a city tour of Santiago, Chile’s modern capital.
Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.
Inclusions
*Please note that 5 Star and Deluxe clients will be staying at all-inclusive accommodations in San Pedro de Atacama and will not follow the standard day tour itinerary below. You will have the option to choose your daily activities from a fixed list each night, the all inclusive program will vary based upon specific lodging.
*During the rainy season (November to March) the Uyuni salt flats get flooded, making it sometimes difficult to visit the area and also cross from Bolivia to Chile. We do not recommend booking this program between those dates.
*Our deluxe option in Lake Titicaca is at Titilaka Hotel including a personalized welcome with private transfer from airport or train station; 2 nights and facilities in an Amanecer (Dawn) Suite (all suites overlook the lake and are furnished with one king or two double beds, lake-view spa bathrooms and have individually controlled heated floors); concierge and trip planner services; choice of excursions in and around Titicaca Lake with bilingual (Spanish and English) guide; breakfast, lunch and dinner; and wireless internet access.
Note:
*Cost includes Vistadome train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. Vistadome is ideal for travelers who want a personalized immersion of Andean culture with traditional dances and music along the way. This train features panoramic windows, leather seats, new table design as well as heating and air conditioning.
*Deluxe service Hiram Bingham train features an observation wagon with a bar and two dining cars. In addition, this train includes a gourmet brunch on board, exclusive bus return to Machu Picchu, entrance to Machu Picchu as well as a guided tour. Afternoon tea in the Sanctuary Lodge, pre-dinner cocktails and a 4-course, a la carte dinner is also included. The train does not operate on Sundays. Upgrades available from Vistadome to Hiram Bingham Deluxe; please ask your Yampu Tour Consultant for the cost of the upgrade.
Exclusions
Local airport departure taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Airfare taxes and security fees that can be paid at the time of ticketing are included in the cost.
Package Price: From £$ 11710
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
Lima
Overnight flight to Lima.
Overnight flight to Lima.
Lima City Tour
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Upon arrival, be greeted for airport reception and transferred to the hotel.
In the afternoon enjoy a private city tour of Lima—one of the most important cities in South America since its founding in 1535. Journey through the historic center of the city, admire the beauty of San Martin and Major squares, the Cathedral, the Government Palace, and visit San Francisco Convent, a religious building from the late 16th century, and its catacombs. This tour also includes a drive through the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Please note the Cathedral is open daily except on Sundays.
During the tour, visit the Museo Larco. Founded in 1926 the Museo Larco chronologically showcases the past 3,000 years of Peruvian history and culture including its pre-Colombian history. The museum is located in a beautiful 18th century vice-royal mansion built atop a 7th century pre-Colombian tomb. After exploring the Museo Larco enjoy a complimentary cocktail and appetizer at the onsite Larco Cafe overlooking the beautiful, surrounding gardens.
Note: Check-in is normally after 2 pm. Early check-in may be granted subject to availability (not confirmed).
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Walking Tour of Cusco
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Early morning transfer to the airport for the flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, be greeted for airport assistance.
This morning, enjoy a private walking tour of Cusco and visit the Korikancha Temple, or Temple of the Sun, and the Cathedral and its Art Museum. During this private tour today there is the option to visit the Casa Concha museum or the San Pedro Market.
The Casa Concha museum was recently renovated and houses over 360 archaeological pieces from Machu Picchu, recently returned by Yale University.
San Pedro Market is a lively, local market where travelers will receive a briefing about the local Andean ingredients and have an opportunity to purchase them. This market visit is a great opportunity to interact with the locals either selling or purchasing items from the market.
This afternoon there will be time for lunch before continuing to the nearby water shrine of Tambomachay (the Inca Fountains), Puca Pucara (the Red Fortress), the amphitheater of Kenko and finally the Sacsahuaman Fortress. This afternoon, return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.
Note: For more adventurous travelers, Yampu suggests an optional sunset horseback riding tour through the Sacsahuaman Ruins. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more information.
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Machu Picchu
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Early morning transfer to the train station. The train will take one through the Sacred Valley of the Incas up to the town of Aguas Calientes. From here, board a bus to Machu Picchu and then have a guided tour of the ruins. Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, was a flourishing ceremonial and agricultural site, probably the gateway to the jungle marshes of the Inca Empire. The central buildings were erected with the polished stone works of the Cusco Imperial style, though the site was probably occupied well before the Incas started their expansion. It was associated with the earth cult revolving around the coca leaf, which was a privilege of the Inca royal family and priests. Enjoy lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge, at the entrance of the ruins, before returning to the hotel at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a wonderful dinner at the hotel or in the town of Aguas Calientes.
Note: Government regulations limit the number of visitors to Machu Picchu daily. Entrance is subject to availability. Please book with plenty of notice so Yampu may confirm entrance to the ruins.
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Day at Leisure
One may choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train to return to Cusco. Upon arrival, train station reception and transfer to the hotel.
Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant to go back to the ruins or hike the Huayna Picchu at time of booking (subject to availability).
One may choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train to return to Cusco. Upon arrival, train station reception and transfer to the hotel.
Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant to go back to the ruins or hike the Huayna Picchu at time of booking (subject to availability).
Lake Titicaca
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Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Lake Titicaca. En route to the hotel, visit the necropolis of Sillustani (12,000 feet above sea level), the lagoon of Umayo and the fabulous “chullpas,” cylinder-shaped tombs. Transfer to the hotel.
Note: One may also take the Andean Explorer train from Cusco to Puno (10 hour scenic ride), which operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, and Fridays also from April to December; surcharge applies, please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant. Note that if one is to take the train, they will not be able to visit the Sillustani Ruins.
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Puno- Copacabana
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Enjoy a private trip from Puno to Copacabana with a wonderful view of Lake Titicaca. Visit the famous Virgen Morena and its church, and take a stroll through the town. Then take the boat to the Island of the Sun. Upon landing in Huacani port, have a typical lunch, "Aptapi". From here, hike about one hour to the Ecolodge La Estancia, offering spectacular views of the mountains and the lake. La Estancia is located in the southern part of Sun Island on Lake Titicaca. It was built preserving the Andean architecture and combines modern comfort with respecting the harmony of the surrounding nature and habitat. Overnight on Sun Island. Dinner tonight is included.
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Chincana Ruins- Island of the Moon- La Paz
After breakfast travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy the sunrise. Take a boat north to visit Chincana ruins and the Sacred Rock. After this excursion, travel by boat to the Island of the Moon and explore the the Inak Uyu ruins before finally reaching Copacabana. After lunch (included) transfer to La Paz.
After breakfast travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy the sunrise. Take a boat north to visit Chincana ruins and the Sacred Rock. After this excursion, travel by boat to the Island of the Moon and explore the the Inak Uyu ruins before finally reaching Copacabana. After lunch (included) transfer to La Paz.
Full-day City Tour of La Paz
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Visit the Gold, Murillo and Costumbrista museums and the Mirador de Laikakota with a beautiful overview of the city. Walk through various street markets including the Uruguay Market, where one can see the highland agricultural products of quinua, tunta, chuno (dehydrated potato) and oca (sweet potato) and a variety of small animals such as guinea pigs, pigeons and chickens; the semi-legal black market where imported clothing and other products are sold at very reasonable prices; and the Witch Market where the locals still buy their supplies from a variety of traditional products used in the ritual ceremonies like the Ch’alla and offerings to the Pachamama (Mother Earth). The tour continues, going through the modern residential area of the city and ends in the Valley of the Moon, with its impressive geological formations. Tour includes lunch at a restaurant with typical Bolivian food. ...read less
La Paz- Uyuni- Colchani
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This morning, transfer to the airport in La Paz to take the flight to Uyuni.Upon arrival be transferred to a nearby salt hotel in Colchani, at the shores of the Uyuni salt flats. After settling in, visit the village of Colchani in the shores to see the locals produce salt. On the way, enter a perfect natural highway to cross to Isla Incahuasi, which is a special habitat of volcanic rocks and giant cactus (entering Incahuasi Island will be dependent upon the weather). After this excursion continue back to Colchani and enjoy a great sunset, overnight in the salt hotel.
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Day of Salt Flats
After breakfast, visit the cemetery of old trains. Afterwards, enter the salt flats and visit Pucara de Aique. Here there will be a great view of the Uyuni salt flats and its surroundings. Uyuni, is the largest salt flat on earth, located on the Bolivian Andean Altiplano with 12.000 square km in size. Enjoy a picnic style lunch and then return to the salt hotel in Colchani.
After breakfast, visit the cemetery of old trains. Afterwards, enter the salt flats and visit Pucara de Aique. Here there will be a great view of the Uyuni salt flats and its surroundings. Uyuni, is the largest salt flat on earth, located on the Bolivian Andean Altiplano with 12.000 square km in size. Enjoy a picnic style lunch and then return to the salt hotel in Colchani.
Day of Lagoons
This morning after breakfast, visit Frog`s Valley, and Chiarcota, Ramadita, and Hedionda Lagoons. After lunch, continue to Siloli’s desert where one will find the Laguna Colorad, located 4,278 meters above sea level. This lagoon is known for its reddish waters and is home to the different species of flamingos. After the visit, continue to Soniquera and overnight at Ojos de Perdiz Hotel.
This morning after breakfast, visit Frog`s Valley, and Chiarcota, Ramadita, and Hedionda Lagoons. After lunch, continue to Siloli’s desert where one will find the Laguna Colorad, located 4,278 meters above sea level. This lagoon is known for its reddish waters and is home to the different species of flamingos. After the visit, continue to Soniquera and overnight at Ojos de Perdiz Hotel.
Lagoons, Salt Flats, and Geysers
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After breakfast this morning, take one last visit to Laguna Colorada and its surroundings. This morning, also visit Sol de Manana Geysers, on route to Chalviri Salt Pan. This area has intense volcanic and fumarole activity. This is an amazing site with boiling lava deep at the bottom of the crater and spouts of steam pouring out the top.
Explore the Chalviri Salt Flats, visiting both the White and Green Lagoons. The Green Lagoon is named after its brilliant green hues, due to the waters high magnesium content, and gives the appearance of a giant emerald. From here one will be able to see Licancahur Volcano in the distance.
Enjoy lunch en route to Hito Cajon for a change of cars before continuing to San Pedro de Atacama for the evening.
Note: 5-Star and Deluxe clients will be met at the Calama airport and taken to the all-inclusive hotel instead of following the itinerary below. Programs will vary depending upon accommodation. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more information.
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Tulor, Quitor, Atacama Salt Lake and Toconao
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This morning, enjoy a half-day archaeological tour to Tulor and Quitor. Departure at 9 a.m. to visit the Padre Gustavo Le Paige Museum, which has an important anthropological collection of Atacamenan culture. Then continue to the indigenous fortress of Quitor where the first shepherds of this civilization lived. Continue on to one of the “ayllus” or settlements which reflect the social system and communal aspects of this subsistence society and the ruins of Tulor, which are composed of a series of round rooms connected to each other with communal patios. Today, this site is covered partly by the sands of the desert and represents an archeological enigma. Afternoon, half-day excursion to the Atacama Salt Lake and Toconao. Upon leaving San Pedro de Atacama (3 p.m. in the winter, 4 p.m. in the summer), head along the side of the huge salt flat and continue until arriving at Toconao, a village where the inhabitants dedicate themselves to working the local liparite stone. Visit the old church and wander around the handicraft shops before a short visit to the Jeri Valley, an oasis in the center of the desert. Continue to the Chaxa Lagoon, where three types of pink flamingos breed. Return to San Pedro de Atacama. ...read less
Full day Tatio Geysers with Machuca Village
Early departure (around 4am) from San Pedro towards the El Tatio Geysers. Take a guided walk around the geothermal field as the fumaroles of steam which appear at dawn rise into the sky. Journey through the Andes mountains, with wonderful views of the Putana volcano and the peaks of Torcopuri. Return to San Pedro, stopping on the way to visiting Machuca, picturesque village of shepherds where the ancient llama caravans used to rest from their travels on the "Inca Highway".
Early departure (around 4am) from San Pedro towards the El Tatio Geysers. Take a guided walk around the geothermal field as the fumaroles of steam which appear at dawn rise into the sky. Journey through the Andes mountains, with wonderful views of the Putana volcano and the peaks of Torcopuri. Return to San Pedro, stopping on the way to visiting Machuca, picturesque village of shepherds where the ancient llama caravans used to rest from their travels on the "Inca Highway".
Santiago
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This morning, transfer to the Calama airport to take the flight to Santiago. Reception at Santiago airport and transfer to a selected hotel in the heart of the city.
This afternoon, enjoy a private city tour of Santiago. The tour begins from the Funicular de Santiago (Gondola), which provides a stunning and panoramic view over the city from the top of San Cristobal Hill. Travel on to the heart of the city and Plaza de Armas the spot from where the city has grown throughout the centuries. Each Latin city has a plaza de Armas as when cities were founded the center was also where the armory and military base was established - hence the name Plaza de Armas (Plaza of Arms). Visit some of the more important buildings such as the Cathedral, the City Council, the Central Post Office and the National Historical Museum.
Continue to the Presidential Palace La Moneda; the current seat of the government. Wander the streets that were once elegant at the beginning of the 19th century and now are a commercial center. One will also visit some of the original colonial neighborhoods such as Concha y Toro Square. Characterized by its cobbled streets and old mansions that reflect the elegance and richness of the early twentieth century the neighborhood grew to prominence between 1870 and 1876 with the influx of wealth as a result of mining and the discovery of Silver. Many Chileans achieved great wealth, including Enrique Concha y Toro founder of the famed winery. Return to the hotel for the evening.
Note: Check-in is normally after 2 pm. Early check-in may be granted subject to availability (not confirmed).
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Private Casablanca Valley with Valparaiso and Vina del Mar
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This morning, be met at the hotel and transferred to the Casablanca Valley, approximately 50-miles (80-kilometers) from Santiago. The Casablanca Valley is one of Chile’s most important regions for cultivating the grapes that produce crisp white wines, most notably Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Enjoy a tour along with a tasting and lunch at one of the local wineries situated along this thriving wine route.
After lunch head on out to visit Valparaiso, the oldest and most important port in Chile. Here, one will have an opportunity to walk along the city’s winding streets and enjoy the scenery and culture of this charming port-city. We continue to Vina del Mar, a resort city that was founded in 1874, famous for its beautiful gardens and flower clock. Late in the afternoon return to the hotel in Santiago. Lunch is included today.
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Flight Home
Transfer to airport for international flight back home.
Transfer to airport for international flight back home.
Lima, Peru
Cusco, Peru
Machu Picchu, Urubamba Province, Cusco, Peru
Puno, Peru
Isla del Sol, La Paz Department, Bolivia
La Paz, La Paz Department, Bolivia
Uyuni, Potosi Department, Bolivia
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Santiago, Chile
Places You'll See
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Lima
Bursting with architectural history and culture, Lima has an eclectic array of attractions. Visit the Santo Domingo Convent, a religious and artistic staple of the city’s historic center. Take a walk along the cliffs of the Miraflores district, showcasing the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, and after, enjoy some shopping at the Larcomar Mall.
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Cusco
Once a powerful Incan city, Cusco is filled to the brim with relics of its grand history. Visit the ruins of the ancient Incan Koricancha Temple, where the Church of Santo Domingo now stands atop. Behold the many beautiful, colonial buildings in the Main Square, including the Cathedral and Church of La Compania de Jesus (Society of Christ).
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Machu Picchu
Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.
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Puno (Lake Titicaca)
Situated on the shores of Lake Titicaca, is the picturesque city of Puno. Visit the llama farm where the locals get the fleece to make their signature textiles. Climb to the top of the hillside city for beautiful views of the lake, or head out on the water for a boat ride to see the famous floating islands.
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La Paz
Spend time up in the clouds in La Paz, the highest de facto capital city in the world, nearly 12,000 feet above sea level. Visit Calle Jaen, home to many well preserved colonial buildings and museums. Visit the Witches’ Market for all your charm and potion needs, and other fun souvenirs. Take a walk up to Mirador Killi Killi, to enjoy beautiful views of the city.
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Uyuni
Originally a railroad junction, Uyuni has become a very popular place to visit. Take a trip to the Train Graveyard and see dozens of decommissioned locomotives, wagons, and other antique machinery. Look up in awe at the massive 30 plus foot cacti that tower over the town. Bring a camera for some unique shots of the salt covered terrain at the world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni.
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San Pedro de Atacama
Enjoy some of the world’s most beautiful natural features such as lagoons, volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs in San Pedro de Atacama. Visit the San Pedro de Atacama to learn about meteorites and how to hunt them. Take a sandboarding tour through Death Valley, or gaze upon the dazzling colors of the Rainbow Valley.
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Island of the Sun
Enjoy the peacefulness of Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun), where there are no paved roads and no motor vehicles. View any of the over 80 ruins on the island, dating back to the time of the Incas. Visit the Museo de Oro and see the many Incan artifacts discovered underwater from around the island. Enjoy the beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the clear skies.
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Santiago
As the political and cultural center of Chile, Santiago has much to offer. Relax at one of the many jazz clubs scattered throughout the city, or go for a wine tasting at one of the local wineries. Take a guided city trek to learn about the Chilean culture and their traditional meals. Or visit the summit of Cerro Santa Lucia for beautiful views.
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Testimonials
Karen and Stephen
Traveled January, 2007
I cannot really convey in a few sentences how satisfied we were with your services.
I never took the time to thank you for the wonderful arrangements made by you and your team at Yampu for a trip we made in late January of this year to Peru and Bolivia. I cannot really convey in a few sentences how satisfied we were with your services. We had never used a travel company before this trip. Considering the fact that we were traveling to third-world countries where life simply is not the same as here in the U.S., we were wonderfully surprised at the smoothness of all of our travel. We attribute this to your choice of tour guides and accommodations chosen in those countries. I thought of you and Yampu recently because we are planning to travel to southern Spain next year, but unfortunately for us you don’t service Spain! Some day we plan to travel to Chile and Argentina, and hope to make use of your services again. Thanks again for such great travel arrangements.
Traveled To
Katalin and Denton
Traveled September, 2009
We could not be more satisfied
We appreciate your follow-up very much just as the service you provided. We could not be more satisfied, everything went so well. We have submitted very good evaluations in every country (Peru, Bolivia and Chile) respectively. Everything was well organized, the hotels were good and everyone showed up everywhere on-time providing valuable service. If we go again, we definitely would contact you and recommend your service to our friends as well. Feel free to post our comments and we will contact you again when we start planning our next trip to this region.
Traveled To
Tommy
Traveled May, 2006
Everything went just perfect
Tal James and I just returned yesterday morning from our Peru-Bolivia trip that we booked with you. Everything went just perfect!…and we appreciate your good service. We are very impressed at the service in every part of our tour. We will use Yampu Tours again.
Traveled To