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Northern Peru - Window to the Past
 Machu Picchu is one of the world’s hottest destinations, but along Northern Peru’s Pacific coast you can still be one of the exclusive few travelers to experience what may be the world’s most significant recent archaeological find, The Lord of Sipan. Gold and silver ornaments, jewels and precious artifacts from the tomb of this Moche leader are now displayed in the impressive museum near Chiclayo.
Southwind's 4 day extension includes a visit to Trujillo and fishing communities where a stroll on the beach may introduce you to locals hauling in their catch from reed kayaks, a construction technique dating to Moche times (A.D. 100-800). We also explore the Tucumé valley with an astounding 26 pyramids, followed by visits to Rainbow, Sun, Moon and Shaman temples. Our private guide then takes travelers on a tour of the World Heritage Site and largest adobe city in the world, Chan Chan, constructed by the sophisticated pre-Incan Chimu culture. Enjoy the spring-like climate and be sure to sample fresh gourmet seafood from the region such as the delicious ceviche.
"Inkaterra was best hotel we stayed in ever, and we’ve been in some good ones. This was one of the best overall trips we’ve ever taken. Highly recommend that you promote the Northern Peru trip more.”
Colin Tener – Custom Galápagos & Machu Picchu – May 2008
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Facts:The Lord of Sipan ruled around 200 A.D. and died at age 40. Featured in National Geographic’s “Discovering the Richest Tomb in the New World,” the ruler’s sarcophagus was discovered 20 years ago and is unique because it sat untouched for nearly 1,800 years!
Cruise the Galápagos in Eco-Style!
 If you are thinking about the Galápagos for 2009 now is the time to reserve your space, since vessels in the luxury category we offer are filling up 6-12 months before departure. Our own Tom Damon has been featured in Condé Nast Traveler’s “10 Perfect Cruise Itineraries.” CNT writer Brook Wilkinson praises the smaller, more intimate luxury yachts along with off-the-beaten-path island destinations that avoid the crowds. The itinerary selected was our Galápagos Wildlife Odyssey featuring 20-passenger vessels that offer upscale personalized service, luxury cabins and meals, and plenty of activities from hiking to snorkeling, or just relaxing on the sundeck. If you would like to extend your trip from the pristine environment of Ecuador’s Galápagos to Peru’s Andes Mountains and one of South America’s archaeological gems, we offer our 17-day Galápagos and Machu Picchu tour.
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Facts: CNT also commends Southwind’s Galápagos vessel partner, Ecoventura, for their exemplary commitment to the environment as Ecuador’s first travel company to offset their carbon emissions, with a 2007 offset of 4,435 tons of CO2. Along with various on-board environmental efforts like recycling and using biodegradable items, they are reducing emissions and fuel consumption.
Patagonia- Stunning vistas at the tip of South America!
 Hikers wanted! Some of the world’s most awe-inspiring mountain vistas can be found in Glaciers National Park, Argentina, home to the Fitz Roy (photo) and Cerro Torre spires. A drive across the border brings you to Torres del Paine National Park, Chile - designated a World Heritage Site for its stunning granite peaks, azure lakes and rare wildlife. Spend a few nights at the end of the earth in a charming estancia! Either schedule your preferred dates or join groups already forming, such as:
- Hiking the Patagonian Andes: Jan 11-25 (1 spot remaining!), Feb 08-22 (10 spots remaining) or March 08-22 (6 spots remaining) .
- Paine Towers Trek: March 21-31(non-camping version). Stunning daily hikes followed by gourmet meals at charming hosterías.
- Custom Lake District Odyssey: Feb 03-15. Day activities include short hikes in national parks and on a volcano, a chairlift ride with stunning alpine views, and soaking in natural hot springs. Nights are spent at some of South America’s most elegant properties.
Customized trips available on request for a minimum of 4 travelers.
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Fact: Many of the mountains are named after the international explorers that were the first to summit their peaks or contribute to knowledge of the area. One of the most intriguing is Captain Robert Fitz Roy (1805-1865), namesake of Mount Fitz Roy (called Chaltén by native Patagonians) and the Fitz Roy River. Following his initial surveys of South America he invited a young Charles Darwin aboard his HMS Beagle, leading to the publication of On The Origin of Species and the theory of evolution.
Tom Damon Recognized as Top Travel Specialist
 For the fourth year in a row, Southwind’s President, Tom Damon, has been named to Condé Nast Traveler’s annual list of the World’s Top Travel Specialists. "To be included on the list, travel specialists need to remain ahead of online travel sites, and they need to offer a combination of insider advice, local connections, added value, and special access," said Condé Nast Traveler Consumer News Editor Wendy Perrin. The annual Travel Specialists list began as a service travel directory 9 years ago, yet it has turned into a must-have list of the most impressive, knowledgeable, and experienced travel specialists in the world. We are proud to have Tom leading the way into 2009 and congratulate him on all of his hard work!
Spanish lessons for tourists
Before you go on your next vacation with Southwind learn to speak to the locals. Visual Link™ Spanish has taught thousands of people to be conversational before their next vacation. Instead of just learning isolated vocabulary words, Visual Link™ Spanish teaches individuals how to form complete sentences. This teaching method enables individuals to quickly start speaking Spanish – even before they get on the plane. In fact, by the end of the very first interactive Spanish lesson vacationers can already form multiple complete sentences in Spanish. Just think how much more enjoyable and easier your vacation is going to be once you’ve learned Spanish. Click here for a FREE sample of Spanish lessons!
Get a great last minute deal on South American travel!
On October 11th the M/V ECLIPSE came back to the Galápagos Islands after an extensive dry dock, and it’s in great shape.
Special 2008 Galápagos Wildlife Odyssey-Eclipse last minute promotion.
Travel for 2 passengers on a given Cabin & save:
-Deluxe Stateroom, save $2,400 per person from our 2008 Land Cost.
-Superior Stateroom, save $2,200 pp
-Staterooms, save $2,000 pp
Departures:
Dec 04 / Family Departure
Dec 11 / Family Departure
Subject to availability, the few Cabins available won’t last.
Tips for Great Values in 2009
- Peru and Ecuador offer the best value among our favorite destinations.
- Nothing creates lasting bonds between family and friends like experiencing a new culture. Savings come with 4 or more passengers traveling together, so get your loved ones on board for the trip of a lifetime!
- For private trips, travel on the shoulder season to avoid the crowds and high-season prices.
- Save with Early Signup Discounts on scheduled departures for applicable Southwind trips!
What's a Chaski?
"Chaski" refers to the messengers of the Inca who
would run along the kingdom's vast network of trails delivering
vital information. News, intricate communication, quipus -
knotted strings conveying regional statistics or perhaps exotic
foods were relayed between Chaskis as they made their way
towards the Incan capital of Cusco.
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