View our latest SAT newsletter for travel inspiration and product highlights in South America.
South American Tours
South American Tours
SAT NEWS - ART, CULTURE & ARCHITECTURE
October 2024
   

Dear Travel Partner,

Over the coming months, we're excited to offer you an exclusive look at our refreshed selection of SAT Sample Itineraries in various travel segments, designed to inspire you and your clients with the latest travel ideas in our unique destinations. For more details on any of the itineraries, please don't hesitate to contact us!

In this edition, we're spotlighting our Special Interest Tours for lovers of culture, art and architecture.
From the legacies of ancient civilisations to stunning colonial architecture, world-class museums and avant-garde design, South America truly has something for everyone.
Join us as we wander the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires; discover the modern marvels of Brazil's futuristic cities; or immerse yourself in Peru, one of the world's 'cradles of civilisation'.

In this issue you will also find an exclusive interview with the director of the Museo Larco in Lima.

Get inspired by our travel ideas and enjoy reading!
  
And don't forget, WTM London, Nov 5-7, is just around the corner and we are looking forward to meeting you there! Visit us at our SAT Stand S6-100. Book your appointment here

All the best,
Your SAT Team

Also check out our Website, Facebook & Instagram.
Interview with Ulla Holmquist Pachas, Museo Larco, Lima, Peru
For travellers curious about Peru's deep-rooted history, we recommend starting your Peru journey at Lima's renowned Museo Larco. Housed in an 18th-century colonial mansion, the museum itself embodies the transition from Peru's pre-Columbian cultures to the Spanish colonial period, making it the perfect gateway to understanding Peru's rich heritage.
The museum's collection is entirely private and was initiated by Rafael Larco Hoyle. In 1923, he began acquiring artefacts, mainly from the northern regions of Peru such as Trujillo, and founded the museum in 1926. 
Today, the Larco Museum houses around 45,000 objects - all ancient burial offerings that probably represented the myths and believes of ancient Peru. Each piece tells its own story and adds to the museum's narrative of Peru's 5,000-year history. 

To learn more, watch our exclusive interview with the museum's director, Ulla Holmquist Pachas, as she shares insights into Peru's fascinating past and the legacy of the Museo Larco.
PERU - Archaeological Wonders of the North
A wonderful Peru travel idea in this specific segment is a 17-day exploration to northern Peru, a land where ancient civilisations, stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture come together. To set the scene for your journey back in time, visit Lima's Museo Larco, as described above. Travel north to Caral, the oldest civilisation in the Americas,  dating back over 4,700 years, onto the Andes, passing the impressive pre-Inca fortress of Paramonga (AD 1200-1400), through the Conococha Pass and into the scenic Huaylas Valley. In Huaraz, explore the stunning Lake Querococha and visit Chavín de Huantar (850 - 200 BC), an archaeological marvel and UNESCO site. Descend to the coast and visit Sechin, with its impressive monoliths and carved stone figures depicting human sacrifices. Continue to Trujillo, a city that combines colonial charm with pre-Incan history. See its colonial mansions and cathedrals before visiting the impressive Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, the centre of power in the Trujillo Valley during the Moche period. Experience the unique traditions of Huanchaco, where fishermen still use reed boats, and explore Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the world, once the capital of the Chimú civilisation. Travel on to Chiclayo, stopping at the ancient site of El Brujo and the Lady of Cao Museum. In Chiclayo, explore the world-famous tomb of the Lord of Sipán at the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum. Marvel at the incredible artefacts and jewellery that offer an insight into the Mochica culture. Continue to the Valley of the Pyramids in Tucume, a vast archaeological site with 26 ancient pyramids. Then venture into the cloud forests of Cocachimba and hike to the majestic Gocta Waterfall, one of the highest in the world. Visit the eerie sarcophagi of Karajía and the mystical Quiocta Caves, hidden in the lush green Andes. Next, explore Kuelap, an ancient fortress perched on a cliff, and take the cable car up to the citadel for panoramic views, known as the 'Machu Picchu of the North'. In Leymebamba, visit the Museum of Mummies, which houses over 200 well-preserved mummies from the Chachapoyas civilisation. Then continue to Cajamarca, a city rich in Incan and colonial history. Explore Cumbemayo, with its mysterious stone aqueducts, and visit the Ventanillas de Otuzco, a fascinating pre-Inca burial site carved into volcanic rock. Finally, tour the historic centre of Cajamarca and visit the famous Ransom Room, where the Inca emperor Atahualpa was held captive by Spanish conquistadors. Wander the charming colonial streets and reflect on your journey before departing from Cajamarca airport.
Photo credit: PromPeru © Walter Silvera
Contact us
URUGUAY - A Hidden Gem for Art Lovers
Photo credit: Casa Pueblo (3), Fundación Pablo Atchugarry (4)
The small country of Uruguay offers a perfect blend of history, architectural masterpieces and contemporary art on this curated 9-day tour. From your hotel in the green and lively Punta Carretas neighbourhood, explore Montevideo's historic centre, including an interior visit to the grand Uruguayan Congress Building (1908-1925), famous for its marble and woodwork. Visit the Torres Garcia Museum, dedicated to the works of the famous Uruguayan sculptor Joaquin Torres Garcia, also known as the founder of Constructive Universalism. Continue to the Palacio Taranco, an elegant French-style mansion that now houses the Museum of Decorative Arts. Leaving the capital behind, travel to the coastal town of Punta del Este, with a stop at the Belle Epoque town of Piriápolis. Visit the magnificent Hotel Argentino, built in 1930, and take in the stunning views from the Punta Ballena viewpoint. A highlight of the day is the Casapueblo Museum, the eccentric former residence of Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró. Next, explore two of Punta del Este's most important art institutions. Admire the impressive collection of contemporary Latin American art, including works by Salvador Dalí, at the Ralli Museum and wander among the outdoor sculptures in the stunning gardens of the Pablo Atchugarry Foundation. Back in Montevideo, visit the elegant Solis Theatre, Montevideo's cultural centre since the 19th century and home to opera, ballet and concerts, and the Salvo Palace, whose cupola offers panoramic views of the city. Continue to Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay's oldest city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with timeless charm. Wander through the historic centre with its cobbled streets and colonial architecture. On the return to Montevideo, stop at Familia Deicas Winery, one of Uruguay's leading wineries. Tour the grounds, enjoy a wine tasting and a traditional lunch in this picturesque setting before departing with unforgettable memories of Uruguay's artistic legacy!
Contact us
BRAZIL - In the Footsteps of Oscar Niemeyer
This special interest SAT Sample Tour features a 12-day architectural exploration of Brazil, tracing the work of Oscar Niemeyer, one of the greatest architects of the 20th century. Start in São Paulo, South America's largest city, with a tour of its architectural marvels, including the neo-gothic Sé Cathedral in downtown São Paulo, the artistic streets of bohemian Vila Madalena, the wide Avenida Paulista and Ibirapuera Park, designed by Niemeyer and landscape architect Burle Marx. From the roof of the Museum of Contemporary Art, you can enjoy fantastic views over São Paulo. From there, travel to Curitiba, known for its innovative and sustainable urban planning. Explore Curitiba's main attractions, including the historic Tiradentes Square, the Botanical Garden and the Oscar Niemeyer Museum. Next, fly to Belo Horizonte, Brazil's first planned city and home to Niemeyer's early masterpieces around Lake Pampulha. Spend a full day exploring the Centro de Arte Contemporânea Inhotim, a spacious open-air art centre. Wander through the gallery pavilions set in lush gardens and admire contemporary art from around the world. Continue to Brasilia, Brazil's capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Niemeyer's visionary designs shaped the city's futuristic landscape. Explore Brasilia's monumental buildings, including the National Cathedral and the JK Memorial. The tour concludes in Rio de Janeiro, the Marvelous City, famous for its beaches surrounded by lush forests. Your hotel is located on the world-famous Copacabana beach and is the perfect base for your exploration. Start with visits to the top of Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountain, then explore downtown Rio and the new Olympic Boulevard. Take a ferry to Niterói for a panoramic visit to the Niemeyer-designed Niterói Museum of Contemporary Art. Return to Rio with a scenic drive along Niterói's beaches and across the impressive Presidente Costa e Silva Bridge, which connects the cities of Rio and Niterói. Your architectural journey comes to an end, leaving you with lasting impressions of Brazil's architectural wonders and vibrant culture.
Photo credit: Embratur © Christian Knepper (2,3)

Contact us
CHILE - Bustling Cities, Historic Wineries & Indigenous Heritage
Photo credit: Birds Chile (2,5), Viña Santa Rita (3), Viajes Meridiano Sur (4)
Experience the beauty and cultural diversity of Chile on this 8-day tour, a SAT Sample Itinerary through vibrant cities and remote indigenous communities. Start in Santiago with a visit to the Pre-Columbian Museum and dive into the art and history of ancient American civilisations. Continue your exploration of Chile's political past with a walk to the Plaza de Armas and the historic presidential palace, La Moneda. Stroll through the Parque Forestal before visiting the arts and crafts market at Pueblito de los Dominicos. A scenic transfer takes you to the Maipo Valley for a guided tour and wine tasting at Viña Santa Rita. The late 19th-century Pompeian-inspired architecture has been preserved, making the vineyard a historic monument. Relax at Hotel Casa Real, where you'll stay in a beautifully restored mansion surrounded by a century-old park. Next, explore the coastal towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Take a walking tour of Valparaíso's bustling streets, Victorian architecture and colourful hillside houses. Visit La Sebastiana, the quirky home of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Travel south to Temuco and on to Pucón, where you can wander the picturesque streets, discover the local culture and visit the city's iconic wooden flowers. In the Araucanía region, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Mapuche people. Learn about their traditional dress, cosmovision and ancestral knowledge while enjoying a traditional meal cooked over a fire. Take a peaceful horseback ride before finishing the day with a tasting of locally brewed craft beers inspired by Mapuche flavours. Relax and recharge at a thermal centre, before continuing on to Puerto Varas on the shores of Lake Llanquihue with the snow-capped Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes in the distance. Visit the Municipal Market to sample local organic produce, explore the heritage houses and the Pablo Fierro Museum. Finally, visit one of the least explored corners of the Lake District with a gentle hike through lush temperate rainforest, followed by an immersive experience with the Huilliche community. Learn about their indigenous traditions, music, medicine and cuisine - the perfect end to your Chilean adventure.
Contact us
ARGENTINA - Buenos Aires' timeless Elegance with Latin Flair
Discover Buenos Aires' captivating blend of European elegance and Latin American flair on this 8-day cultural tour, just one of our numerous SAT Samples . Stay at the Boutique Hotel Mio Buenos Aires in the elegant Recoleta neighbourhood, the perfect base for exploring the city's rich heritage. Start with a stroll along the Avenida de Mayo and a coffee at the iconic Café Tortoni, before visiting Plaza de Mayo, home to Casa Rosada (Government House), El Cabildo (First Town Hall) and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Explore the colourful art district of La Boca and the trendy harbour district Puerto Madero. Drive along the world's widest avenue, 9 de Julio, to the Teatro Colón, an architectural marvel and world-class opera house. Step back in time in San Telmo, Buenos Aires' oldest neighbourhood, visiting the underground tunnels of Zanjon de Granados. Wander the Sunday antiques fair and soak up authentic tango culture at a late-night milonga. Escape the city to San Isidro and the tranquil Tigre Delta, with its lush waterways and colonial charm. Visit the Tigre Art Museum, a great example of 19th-century neoclassical architecture, before returning to explore Recoleta Cemetery and its impressive mausoleums. Continue through the parks of Palermo to visit the Evita Museum and hip Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood. In the evening, enjoy panoramic views from the lighthouse of Barolo Palace, followed by wine and canapés in a 1920s office. Explore more beautiful palaces in Buenos Aires, once the homes of prestigious families and now converted into museums and embassies. In the evening, unwind at the Trade Sky Bar, a chic rooftop venue with breathtaking views of the city. Finally, immerse yourself in Buenos Aires' art scene by visiting world-class museums such as the National Museum of Fine Arts, with masterpieces by Rubens and Goya, or the MALBA, with works by Latin American artists such as Frida Kahlo and Fernando Botero. With time for independent exploration, you'll experience the full spirit of Buenos Aires, from its historic buildings to its dynamic cultural life.
Photo credit: Turismo Buenos Aires (1); Zanjon de Granados (2); MALBA (4)
Contact us
ECUADOR - Colonial Charm and Artisan Traditions 
This SAT Sample Itinerary, a 12-day tour through colonial towns and artisan villages, highlights Ecuador's rich artistic heritage and cultural diversity. Start in Quito and stay at the Mama Cuchara Art Hotel, surrounded by its private collection of Ecuadorian art. Explore the UNESCO city's colonial treasures, including the churches of La Compañía and San Francisco, and visit the Guayasamín Museum, which showcases works by Ecuador's most famous painter, Oswaldo Guayasamín, alongside a collection of pre-Columbian artefacts. Travel to Otavalo, famous for its indigenous culture and bustling markets. Learn traditional weaving techniques and enjoy a live demonstration of Andean music at a musical instrument workshop, before heading to Salinas de Ibarra to stay at the Pantavi Museart Hotel, where art and creativity meet in a beautifully designed space. Meet the Afro-Ecuadorian women of Mascarilla, artisans of unique clay masks inspired by their traditions. Later, visit La Bodega Organica, a family-run farm dedicated to organic farming and the cultivation of medicinal plants. Head to Hacienda La Compañía de Jesús, a historic Jesuit estate renowned for its heritage and flourishing rose plantation. Then visit Quilotoa Lagoon, a stunning volcanic crater lake, and discover the Tigua community, famous for their vibrant artwork that captures daily life using traditional painting techniques. Continue to Cotopaxi National Park and experience the majestic beauty of the towering volcano. On the way to the colonial city of Cuenca, explore the ancient Inca ruins of Ingapirca, Ecuador's most important pre-Columbian archaeological site. In Cuenca, stay at the Art Hotel Cruz del Vado and explore the famous flower market and main square with its old and new cathedrals. Venture to nearby villages to watch local artisans produce woven textiles, ponchos and intricate jewellery. Finish your trip in the coastal city of Guayaquil. Tour the historic Las Peñas neighbourhood with its charming wooden houses and visit the Museum of Anthropology and Contemporary Art, which houses a rich collection of archaeological, ethnographic and artistic pieces representing the cultural heritage of Ecuador's coastal communities.
Contact us
COLOMBIA - Architectural Gems & Urban Development
Discover Bogotá’s historic sites and enjoy the district’s blend of beautiful buildings, Spanish colonial architecture, and baroque churches that contrast with modern graffiti, cafés, and contemporary museums like the Modern Art Museum. Your guide will introduce you to the city’s neoclassical highlights, including the national theatre Teatro Colon and Casa de Nariño, the official presidential residence. The next day, explore the Ciudad Bolívar district and its urban development projects such as the TransMiCable and various cultural and educational initiatives that have led to significant social restructuring. Take the cable car and experience the Calle del Color mural circuit with over 1000m² of urban art by local and international artists; join a basic graffiti class with a local artist. Continue to Medellín, where you'll explore the permanent exhibition of Fernando Botero at the Museum of Antioquia, as well as a series of sculptures on display in the so-called Plaza Botero and throughout the city centre. Take the Metro Cable up to Santo Domingo, once a notorious area of gang violence in Medellin. The cable car was constructed to make the inner city more accessible to people from the outskirts. Learn about Medellín’s transformation from one of the world’s most dangerous cities to a fascinating melting pot of cultures with possibly the warmest and friendliest people in the world. This experience is deepened by a visit to Moravia, once a landfill surrounded by poverty, today a model urban centre. The residents of Moravia will show you the incredible metamorphosis of their neighbourhood; listen to their personal stories and support the community projects aimed at a better future. Fly on to Cartagena, Colombia’s colonial gem on the Caribbean coast. An architect guide explains the city’s colonial but also modern, stately architecture and monuments. With a keen eye for detail, the guide will reveal subtle elements of Romanesque, Arabic, colonial, military, and international styles that often go unnoticed. A Graffiti and Street Art tour through the vibrant neighbourhood of Getsemaní immerses you in the authentic daily life of Cartagena. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Cartagena and digest the many impressions of your trip.
Contact us
HOTEL NEWS SOUTH AMERICA
Hotel Boutique Ariquepay,
Arequipa
The 4-star Ariquepay Boutique Hotel combines historic charm with modern comforts in the heart of the white city of Arequipa, Peru. It is housed in a restored 18th-century colonial building, just one block from the Plaza de Armas. Amenities include a spa with sauna, Jacuzzi and massage services, and a rooftop bar and lounge with panoramic views of the city.
Hotel Mari Mari, 
Los Muermos, Lake District
Hotel Mari Mari (formerly The Cliffs Preserve) has reopened as an exclusive gateway to Patagonia in Chile's Lake District. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, the 9,000-acre private coastal reserve offers ocean-view suites and full lodges (2-5 bedrooms) with terraces, hot tubs and fireplaces, where guests can enjoy nature-based activities led by local experts.
Ikam Riverview Lodge,
Puerto Maldonado
Ikam Riverview Amazon Lodge, a Casa Andina partner hotel, opened in late Sep in the middle of the Peruvian Amazon, just 30min from Puerto Maldonado. Located on the banks of the Tambopata River, the lodge offers a perfect blend of comfort and nature with 18 air-conditioned rooms, a river view pool, local cuisine and activities such as night walks and river tours.
FLIGHT NEWS SOUTH AMERICA
New: Warsaw - Salvador
 
LOT Polish Airlines will resume its seasonal flights between Poland and Brazil for the 2024-2025 summer season, building on the success of last year. Flights from Warsaw to Salvador da Bahia will be operated once a week with the modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
New: Asunción - Montevideo - Salto
Paranair inaugurated a new route between Montevideo and Salto on 8 Oct, reactivating domestic flights in Uruguay. The twice-weekly flights operate on Tue & Thurs from Asunción, Paraguay, with a stopover in Montevideo, using 50-seat Bombardier CRJ-200 aircraft.
New: Fortaleza - Santiago
 
LATAM will launch a weekly non-stop service between Fortaleza (FOR), Brazil & Santiago de Chile (SCL) on 30 Nov. Departures from FOR will be on Sat at 14:45 and return from SCL on Sun at 06:50. This service will also reduce travel times from north-east Brazil to Australia and New Zealand.
sales@southamericantours.com southamericantours instagram facebook linkedin youtube
Argentina Chile Brazil Uruguay
Peru Bolivia Ecuador Colombia
South American Tours - Global Sales Office
Frankfurt am Main | Germany
Phone: +49 (0) 69 4058970 | Mail: sales@southamericantours.com
www.southamericantours.com
South American Tours - Sales Office North America
Mail: sales-america@southamericantours.com
South American Tours - Sales Office Italy
Mail: sales.italy@southamericantours.com
Imprint
South American Tours de Uruguay Agencia de Viajes S.A. | Buenos Aires 618, Piso 2, Oficina 201 | 11000 Montevideo | Uruguay
Tel.: +59 82 91 60 050 | Fax.: +59 82 91 55 406 | E-mail: info@southamericantours.com
Managing Director: Federico Büker | Registered Office: Montevideo | Local Court: Montevideo | Commercial Register: 1194 (Ministry of Tourism) | VAT identification no.: 215224020014
Unsubscribe