We have a new sightseeing tour in Lima combining sites of interest in the historic city center (colonial) with pre-Inca sites in the modern districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. The first alternative includes the visit to Lima’s main square, Plaza San Martin and the catacombs in ‘San Francisco Church’ and afterwards a stop either in Miraflores to visit the pre-Inca Huaca (Temple) Pucllana or in San Isidro to explore ‘Huaca’ (Temple) Huallamarca. The tour to Huallamarca or Pucllana is offered as an alternative to the standard visit to the Cathedral. Especially travelers with more than 3 visits to churches in their itineraries (i.e. in Arequipa, Colca and Cusco) might appreciate the opportunity to know more about the almost unknown but interesting pre-Inca past of Lima.

A new Casa Andina property has been launched a few weeks ago in Arequipa. The property of the wealthy Quiroz family and former Mint House has been completely refurbished to become a luxury historic hotel in Arequipa. With a privileged location just 3 blocks from the main square of Arequipa, the newest property of the hotel chain features a fusion of old-world elegance with distinctly contemporary style. The 33 standard rooms are set in the contemporary building while the 4 suites are in the original building completely made of white volcanic stone as most of the colonial buildings in the city center. The hotel offers two wide colonial style courtyards as well as a cute little chapel, which has mostly been restored in its old beauty, and a cozy bar with original fresco paintings. Ask us for a detailed information sheet with our own pictures.

At the kind invitation of Francesco Galli Zugaro we had the opportunity to inspect the brand new ‘M/V Aqua’ - the first true luxury vessel to sail along several tributaries of the Amazon to Pacaya Samiria – Peru’s largest national reserve. It was a delight to be on this cruise. As soon as you embark you notice that Francesco and his team have put a singular attention to every facet of this cruise. Designed by the renowned architect Jordi Puig the Aqua offers its guests casual elegance in its 8 air-conditioned suites, indoor bar and outdoor lounge and the dining room. Though small, this is a well-appointed ship. Amenities include private baths, safe deposit box, basket of toiletries, hair dryer and sitting area. Interesting shore excursions are offered in 3 aluminum launch boats. And last but least your Amazon adventure is complimented by a menu especially created by top chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino and a selection of fine wines. Ask us for a detailed fact sheet and itineraries.

PeruRail has announced yesterday luggage restrictions for the route Cusco-Ollanta-Machu Picchu. Effective February 11th PeruRail will only accept only 1 piece hand baggage up to a maximum of 5 kg (11 pounds) and a total linear dimension of 157 cm (62 inches) per passenger. This measure has been introduced as the emergencies exits in the trains were usually blocked with passengers’ luggage. Alternatively baggage exceeding the allowed weight and/or dimension could be transported in an additional train frequency (introduced for this purpose) at additional cost. (From Ollanta to Machu Picchu 08:53/10:30 and – Machu Picchu to Ollanta 18:03/19:35) PeruRail will offer a baggage storage service in Ollanta railway station available from February, 4th at additional cost (daily from 07:00 to 19:00).

From March 2008 AeroSur will offer flights twice a week from Madrid to Cusco Wednesdays and Saturdays and from Cusco to Madrid Thurdays and Sundays. Roundtrips start from € 891. Flights Cusco - La Paz –Cusco should operate effective March 20th every Thursday and Sunday.

The Pacaya Samiria Amazon Lodge, with a unique location in the outskirts of Pacaya Samiria National Reserve (190 km southwest from Iquitos) yet property of Hatuchay hotel owners has been re-launched. The lodge, with 8 comfortable bungalows, offers great opportunities for viewing wildlife in a pristine environment at an affordable price. Tours from 3 to 6 days can be arranged. A fact sheet of the lodge is already available.

To cover the investment of the recently finished Port Complex Isabella, a tax for will be introduced by the municipal council. Foreign tourists have yet to pay USD 5, national tourists USD 2 and residents USD 1.

Guests staying Deluxe Class hotels in Quito will be charged with USD 2 per night per room (Swissotel, Plaza Grande, JW Marriott, Hilton Colon, Dann Carlton, Mercure Alameda, Sheraton and Radisson) effective April 1st. Overnights at First Class hotels will be charged with USD 1 per night per room (Patio Andaluz, Sebastian, Sierra Madre and Quito). Authorities in Quito plan to invest this new source of income in the development and improvement of tourism infrastructure in the Metropolitan District of Quito.

Since last December TAM is operating a daily flight Madrid – Sao Paulo as connecting Sao Paulo with Lima. Flights will be operated with a new Airbus A330 aircraft. The flight Sao Paulo – Lima is offered with TACA. Madrid is the fifth destination TAM offers in Europe. TAM already offers flights from Sao Paulo to Frankfurt, Paris, London and Milan.

Two brand new hotels will start operations in the next months in Paracas. The first one affiliated to Hilton will be the first 5* hotel in Paracas and will open its doors in September ’08. This hotel by the name ‘Hilton - Double Tree Guest Suites’ will be under the management of Pardo Double Tree hotel in Lima. The second property, a 4* hotel, ’La Hacienda Paracas’ belongs to owners of the ‘La Hacienda’ hotel in Lima and should be launched in January ‘09. Additionally the Libertador hotel plans to re-open its hotel yet a 5* resort in March ’09. With the introduction of these new hotels we will eventually be able to include the overnight Paracas in our itineraries again. Rates of all hotels are already available.

Despite of its short existence (opened in Aug ’07) the new first class Sumaq hotel has already conquered the top of Trip Advisor’s popularity index for hotels in Aguas Calientes. Not only its brand new infrastructure, facilities and amenities have been taken into consideration in the reviews but also its friendly staff and outstanding cuisine (menu created by the recognized chef Rafael Piqueras). Trip Advisor (www.tripadvisor.com) features unbiased advice from more than 24 million real travelers in 190 countries.

The Libertador hotel chain has already started to promote the refurbishment of its properties (to be added to the ‘Luxury Collection’ brand in 2009). Following hotels will undergo a complete renovation: Libertador Puno, Libertador Cusco, Libertador Sacred Valley and Libertador Paracas. Our team visited a couple of weeks ago the mock-ups of the guestrooms. Although every guestroom features a unique décor including local elements of every city all are tastefully designed. Pictures of each mock-up are already available.

Lima has an additional upscale first class hotel. We recently inspected the brand new Radisson Decapolis in Miraflores. The former Gran Hotel Miraflores has been completely refurbished to become Lima’s first avant-garde hotel with Peruvian inspired art. With 105 spacious rooms equipped with flat TV, coffee kit, WIFI, sound-proofed windows, blackout curtains as well as a rooftop pool/gym accompanied with a spectacular view of the ocean and the city, the Radisson Decapolis Hotel promises to please business and leisure travelers alike.

We were recently invited to the familiarization trip organized by Orient Express to experience its brand new ‘Casitas del Colca’. We visited the property to see ourselves the amazing little world that was created to offer guests the perfect relaxing stay combined with an awesome nature experience and the discovery of local traditions and culture. Eleven casitas with every comfort like heated plunge pools on each terrace, inside and outside showers and heated floors are scattered on the ample property what guarantees a stay in easeful privacy. A spa with pool and several activities like cycling, horse riding, cooking classes and star gazing provide entertainment and recreation for every taste. The hotel, always concerned to offer a true nature experience, lets guests by request pick their own ingredients from the hotel garden which later get prepared by the chefs for dinner in the intimate little restaurant. Contributing to a sustainable development of the nearby communities, the hotel works closely together with the locals and lets guest take part of it. There is the possibility to help the farmers of the hotel owned farm with feeding baby alpacas or to do voluntary work at the nearby mission led by Madre Antonina.

Both airlines have released its new free baggage allowance. LAN will accept luggage up to a maximum of 20 kg. The maximum weight limit per luggage for all STAR flights is 25 kg.

The entrance fee for the National Park Los Glaciares (necessary to visit ‘El Calafate’) has been increased from USD 14 to USD 20 effective July ’08.

As we have previously informed all PeruRail frequencies to Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu (except for two leaving from Cusco) currently depart from Ollanta station in the Sacred Valley. It is still uncertain if two additional railways companies will be allowed to enter the market next year. Consequently PeruRail has not launched yet prices and itineraries for 2009 and it is still unknown which frequencies will be assigned to PeruRail. Therefore trains to Machu Picchu are subject to Peru Rail’s availability and confirmation. Considering in addition how critical train availability to Machu Picchu has become in the last months we suggest our clients to book trips to the citadel well in advance.

In the last months confirmations for the flight over the Nazca lines have become very difficult. This is a result of the limited capacity of aircrafts (max. 3-5 passengers) whose flights are subject to weather conditions. Furthermore, in reaction to the plane accident in Nazca earlier this year, the procedure to determine the turn of each aircraft company to fly over the Nasca Lines has changed. This added to the high demand of flights in Nasca has led sometimes to an auction-like situation and a significant price rise on peak days. We therefore strongly recommend informing your clients about the current situation in Nasca. We will do our best effort to provide this service. Nevertheless flights over the Nasca Lines unfortunately cannot be 100% guaranteed under such circumstances.

From September 3rd LAN operates flights Lima-Tacna and vice versa, with a stopover in Cusco three days a week (Wed, Fri and Sun). This is for sure an interesting alternative for travelers visiting the cities of Arica and Tacna (in the Chilean/Peruvian border) and then continuing their trip to Peru.

Park authorities of the Argentinean side augmented the entrance fees to Iguazu Falls in the National Park USD 15 to USD 20 effective October 1st 2008.

Recently, a considerable finding was made in the archaeological site Huaca Pucllana in Miraflores, Lima. Three 1300-year old mummies and the remains of one child from the pre-Inca Wari culture were found. One of them still very well preserved was found with textiles and ceramics. One of the mummies wears a funeral mask and therefore could be identified as female; archaeologists named her ‘The lady of the mask’. We offer different itineraries including Huaca Pucllana as part of Lima’s sightseeing tour. Such tours give the chance not only experience Lima’s colonial past and modern districts, but also the ancient heritage of pre-Inca cultures that ruled the region nearly 1500 years ago.

The Novotel Cusco will complete the refurbishment of all its “contemporary“ rooms by the end of September ‘08. The whole furniture of its premium “colonial” rooms was already changed in the first phase of refurbishment. A second Novotel property in Peru will be launched by mid of 2009 in the commercial area of San Isidro. The 4*hotel with 210 rooms, rates should be available by the end of September '08.

In March 2009, a new river vessel for Amazon cruises will be launched, the ‘Delfin II’. Held in the same style as the famous ‘Delfin I’, picking up the design elements of the Amazon with wooden furniture and a fond decoration, it is more luxurious and with a beam of 9 m it offers more space than its predecessor. 28 passengers can be hosted in 14 large guest suites distributed on 2 decks with panoramic windows and every comfort. The third deck offers an ample hammock sundeck and a lounge with bar. The 3 and 4 day programs starting in Iquitos – Nauta offered by the cruise operator are the same for the Delfin II and the Delfin I. The boutique-like cruise however will be the first luxury vessel offering a extensive trip through the Pacaya Samiria Reserve itself, the biggest national park of Peru.

From October, 2008 on, LAN will offer daily frequencies from Frankfurt, via Madrid, to Ecuador, arriving at the main cities: to Guayaquil at 05.30 and to Quito at 07.20. The routes will be operated in modern Boeing B767 aircrafts. The seats in the Economy Class have a comfortable distance of 32 inches between them and individual entertainment monitors to enjoy during your flight.

After a thorough evaluation by the Regional Government of Cusco, the Sumaq has become Machu Picchu’s first 5* hotel. Outstanding service and infrastructure, ample and well-decorated rooms, haute cuisine and upscale amenities are among the criteria that qualified Sumaq to become a 5* hotel. Unbiased feedback about the hotel’s service and value can be found under Trip Advisor (www.tripadvisor.com).

On board a modern Airbus A320 aircraft, featuring 12 executive class and 144 economy class seats, for a total capacity of 156 passengers, you can now fly with TAM from Sao Paulo to Lima and vice versa. Departure from Sao Paulo is scheduled for 8:25 hrs, landing in Lima at 10.35 hrs. For the return flight, the time scheduled is to leave from Lima at 11.45 hrs and arrive at 19.30 hrs. For further information, please enter the TAM Web site at www.tam.com.br.

From November 17th, 2008 on the airport tax in Quito for international departures has increased from USD 40.80 to USD 44.80. The reason for this increase is the latest variations in Ecuador’s inflation in the past few months according to the D.A.C (Civil Aviation Direction of Ecuador) and in accordance with Ecuadorian laws.

Aranwa hotel chain, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, will open its first hotel in the Sacred Valley, Aranwa Hotel Spa Sacred Valley next December with 115 guest rooms. The chain has projects all over the country, including a Boutique Hotel in Cusco with 42 guest rooms to be opened next August, 2009, a Resort in Paracas scheduled to open throughout 2010, a Boutique Hotel in Arequipa, two Resort Spas, one in Colca Valley, Arequipa and the other in Mancora, Piura. A hotel spa in Puno is under Aranwa projects as well.

Casa Cartagena, a new Boutique Hotel in Cusco will open next December `08. The Hotel will offer a complete new concept of decoration with modern elements inside an old Hacienda. For further information and photos, please click here Casa Cartagena Boutique Hotel

From January ’09 LAN is operating a new flight from Cusco to Iquitos with stopover in Lima every MON, TUE, THU and SAT (LP 394). It is a perfect fit for travelers with an extension in the Amazon. Flights depart from Cusco at 13:00 hrs, make a stopover in Lima for 30 minutes and then arrive in Iquitos at 16:40 hrs. This flight allows getting a more competitive price for packages combining Cusco and Iquitos, as there is no need for an overnight and transfers in Lima.

The M/V Aqua was chosen and voted as Best Expedition Cruise in Latin America last month at WTM (World Travel Market) by the most important British tour operators and agencies members of LATA. LATA (Latin American Travel Association) is a travel trade organization in the UK founded to promote Latin America as tourist destination. The association brings together over 200 companies, including tourist boards, tour operators, hotels, wholesalers, media, airlines and overseas members.

Casa Andina’s 4* hotel in Cusco has expanded its capacity. With the 22 additional guestrooms available from December ’08 the property in Cusco will offer a total of 94 rooms.

The Libertador hotel chain has launched promotional rates for two of its properties: Cusco and Puno. Rates apply for new reservations for overnights starting in January until March 31, 2009 and apply for FITS and groups. Incentive groups are exempted from promotion. Take advantage of these promotional rates and contact your account executive to ask for an upgrade to 5* hotels.

This charming boutique hotel is honoring 2008 rates until April 2009. The rates of last year also apply for reservations for any date in 2009 made until February 28th, 2009. With this promotion travelers can upgrade its 3*accommodation in CUSCO to a hotel in the tourist superior category.

As previously informed PeruRail reduced its frequencies departing from Cusco to only two daily (Vistadome #31 covering Cusco – Machu Picchu and Vistadome # 32 operating Machu Picchu – Cusco). Still, effective February 2nd 2009 both frequencies will no longer depart from/ arrive to the train station in Cusco but from Poroy. This change demands for transfers from/to Poroy that are expensive than those from/to the local train station in Cusco. We will though honor the prices of the quotes sent to date. But please bear in mind, that when requesting the full day tour to Machu Picchu including a train leaving yet from Poroy will suffer an increase.

LAN Peru has considerably increased its air fares for groups effective April ’09 until March 2010. Additionally a mandatory, non-refundable, pre-payment of USD 25 per passenger has been introduced. Please take note that LAN is the only carrier operating domestic flights to different cities in Peru (with exception of the route Lima-Cusco that is served by other two airlines)

The brand new property of Doubletree, a resort in Paracas Bay, was officially inaugurated on February 17th. The 14,000 m² (150,694 sq. ft.) resort has 124 spacious luxury suites (55 m² /592 sq. ft.) with capacity for four guests, a living room, a dining room, a terrace and a kitchenette. The suites offer impressive views of Paracas Bay and/or the hotel pool and are appointed with the standard 'Sweet Dreams' luxury bedding package of Doubletree properties. All the suites are equipped with high-speed wireless internet, two 29-inch screen TV sets, in room climate control, iron with ironing board, personal safe, MP3 device and dual voltage (220/110V). The suites also feature phones, data port and an additional phone in the bathroom. Facilities include a restaurant, a gym with a spa and sauna facilities, two bars, a 750 m² (2297 ft²) pool and a convention center. In a recent workshop for tour operators the hotel's management explained all the environmental aspects that have been considered to make of the Doubletree a truly ecological property. Boat excursions to the Ballestas Islands depart from the neighboring Paracas Yacht Club.

With the aim to foster its sales for 2009 the Country Club Lima, Lima’s historic 5* hotel, has launched promotional rates valid throughout the year. Please contact your sales executive to receive the new rates.

Effective February 1st 2009 the airport tax will be USD 27.75.

New reservations for April, May, June and July 2009 will have discounted rates at the chain properties in Arequipa, Puno, Cusco and Trujillo. Promotional rates can be booked starting from March 27th. Rates do not apply for Inti Raymi in Cusco. Additional discount for reservations of 3 or 5 properties can’t be deducted from these promotional rates. Ask your account executive for the new rates.

Oex properties have special prices for the Latin American countries from March 12 th through June 20th 2009. These are only valid for new reservations. Guests of Miraflores Park and Monasterio pay only one meal and get two. Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge has launched a special price for its ‘classic room’ (ask your account executive). Last but not least at Casitas del Colca you get three nights for two paid nights.

A new museum dedicated to the Lady of Cao in the archaeological complex of ‘El Brujo ‘ will be inaugurated on April 2nd. This site, 35 km north of Trujillo, was built by the pre-Inca Mochica Culture 300 years BC) and rescued thanks to the support of the Wiese Fundation. Artifacts found with the mummie of the Cao Lady will be displayed in the new museum. Her discovery equals in relevance to that of the Lord of Sipan. Until now it was supposed that only men could have high position in the ancient Peru. See video

The hotel Altiplánico Rapa Nui opened its doors. It is situated in the sector of Hinere, only 200 meters from Moai Akapu and the sea and 4 km from the village Hanga Roa. The hotel complex offers terrace, pool, bar and open-air-restaurants, all of them with a spectacular view. The rooms are amply and elegant, surrounded by a 15.000 m² area of beautiful gardens and panoramic sea-view. You find the hotel far enough from the center to feel privacy and peace. For more information contact your sales-manager.

The hotel chain Libertador acquired a yacht and a small plane in order to provide luxury/differentiated services for their guests. Trips aboard the yatch ‘Garza’ with a capacity for 12 passangers are assisted by a chef and barman, that prepare drinks, snacks and a gourmet lunch. Yatch tours depart from the Yacht Club in La Punta (Lima/Callao) to the Palomino Islands. Once the new Hotel Paracas opens in September 2009, the Garza sail from the the hotel’s own pier to the Ballestas Islands. Additionally a small plane Cessna Grand Caravan (2008), with capacity for 12 passengers, has already started operations over the Nasca Lines departing from the airport in Pisco. Flights are joined by a English/Spanish speaking guide.

Flights over Nasca Lines were only offered to date from Nasca’s airstrip. Though two companies have recently introduced a new service from Pisco (10 minutes from Paracas). Both operate with new Cessna Gran Caravan planes. The first provider ‘Tikaryi’ offers this flight exclusively for guests of the new deluxe hotel Libertador Paracas (max. capacity 8 passengers). Aerodiana planes, the second provider, additionally offers flights from Lima and Nasca’s airstrip. Aerodiana’s planes have a capacity for 12 passengers.

From the 18th of June of 2009 LAN will offer a daily frequency – not like before only three times a week – from Frankfurt to Lima. The night flight from Frankfurt airport starts at 19:35 pm to Madrid. Upon arrival to Madrid the journey continues with the flight to Lima by Boing B767 and the arrival at 06:00 am. The return flight starts at 20:20 pm and arrives Madrid at 15:40 pm.

The fine wine estate ‘El Cuadro’ in Casablanca Valley (40 min drive from Santiago), one of the main producers of white wine worlwide, has launched a new full day excursion in SIC basis (with English/Spanish speaking guide). This new getaway includes a tasty lunch enhanced by a wine tasting and a horse carriage ride through the vineyards. An equestrian show performed by skilled horsemen or ‘huasos’ (Chilean cowboys) and a visit to the wine museum are also part of the tour. The tour operates from Monday to Saturday. Please contact your account executive for further information.

The tourist class hotel Girasoles in Miraflores, Lima has undergone a complete refurbishment and enlarged its capacity to 32 rooms. Nine rooms are brand new and occupy the new hotel’s building.

The opening of the airport of Pisco (15 minutes from Paracas) for commercial flights has made possible that new carriers enter the market to operate flights over the Nasca Lines aboard modern Cessna Caravan from Paracas (only 3 ½ hours from Lima). Travelers can now visit both Ballestas Islands and Nasca Lines either on a full day or a 2-day itinerary leaving from Lima. See itinerary details under following link. Ask your sales account about confidential prices. You can find other alternatives including Nasca and Paracas in our PARTNER ZONE (Email: marketing(at)setours.com for the login and commissions).

A couple of weeks ago we did an inspection trip to the so called ‘Sur Chico‘ covering Nasca, Ica and Paracas. We were happy to see that infrastructure is improving. The hotel Majoro has become an even more charming, haven of peace and has now 86 rooms. See new pictures. For those looking for an accommodation in Nasca’s center at a reasonable price Oro Viejo is a great alternative. The charm of the small Villa Jazmin in Ica is complemented by the hospitality of its staff (see new pictures). And finally we can say that we were surprised by the new Doubletree Paracas. The property, directly on the Pacific Ocean, has not only been designed in an exquisite contemporary style, but it is the kind of place travelers look for to get relaxed and soak up the sun after an active Peru trip. The hotel has even brought beach sand from Arequipenan beaches to the hotel to offer its guests a perfect relaxation.

Tours at these three lodges can be conducted in German language without additional cost. Lodge fact sheets and visit to three lodges three weeks ago. Check out our section ‘Recommended Accommodation’ in Puerto Maldonado. During our visit we could witness how consequent the management, staff and guides care to keep the impact on the environment and wildlife as low as possible.

We remind you that the two daily train frequencies from Cusco to Aguas Calientes are leaving now from Poroy (20 min drive from Cusco). This change aims at offering higher standards in terms of passenger’s security according to information provided by PeruRail. This measure eliminates the five switchbacks known locally as ‘the zig zag‘ necessary in the past to get out of and into the city.

Travelers with a hotel booking of three, four and five nights at Awasi in San Pedro de Atacama will get a night free with breakfast at the Hotel W in Santiago (before leaving to San Pedro de Atacama). The promotion applies for a stay between July 1st and September 30th 2009. Contact your sales executive for further details.

On April 19th the new Delfin II made his first trip through the waters of the Amazon River. The new river cruise features 14 luxurious spacious suites with 180° panoramic windows. All the comfort onboard is complemented by excellent cuisine and with extraordinary service, aiming at catering the most discerning travelers. A great way to enjoy a trip along the earth's mightiest river the Amazon and ‘Pacaya Samiria’, Peru’s largest reserve, habitat of hundreds of species of wildlife and birdlife and penetrated by only a privileged few. Similar to the Delfin I the new Delfin II offers 4, 5 and 7 day-itineraries. Please contact your sales executive for further details.

Guests booking 2 nights in Classic rooms at Monasterio will get the third night free. Bookings for the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge , regardless the room type, qualify for a 50% discount of Hiram Bingham’s rack rate. Promotions apply for new reservations submitted by September 30th 2009 and for stays until December 22nd 2009. Alternatively the hotel chain offer discounts of 4%, 6% and 8% for bookings of 2, 3 or 4 Orient Express properties respectively.

Star Peru has a promotional air fare for new booking for individual travelers flying Lima – Cusco or viceversa at USD 100 (including security “q”). This special airfare is valid until December 31th 2009.

Novotel’s second property in Peru was opened in Lima last week. The Novotel Lima is located in San Isidro at walking distance from the pre-Inca archaelogical site Huaca Huallamarca and Lima’s largest business center. The new 208-room state-of-the-art hotel features first-class accommodation at promotional rates through December 2009. Check the confidential rates in our PARTNER ZONE . If you need a login and password contact marketing(at)setours.com

Colca Lodge , the most charming hotel in the Colca Valley after the Casitas del Colca, has inaugurated a new facility. Guests have now the chance to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the environment not only from the hotel’s own hot springs but from the brand new spa. Promotional rates are valid until the end of 2010. For a small price difference (compared to other 3* hotels) guests can take advantage of Colca Lodge’s open-air stone pools fed by volcanic water. Check our updated confidential rates in our PARTNER ZONE

PeruRail, the company operating the train rides to/from Machu Picchu, has announced that its 2009 prices will remain the same in 2010.

Leisure travelers can plan their holidays with more flexible than businessmen. In aim to become an attractive alternative for those guests Sonesta El Olivar is offering lowering rates for overnights on Fridays and Saturdays. Promotion applies for reservations for the remaining of the year and 2010.

Together with Galextur, owner of hotel Silberstein at the Galapagos, Setours will participate in the next edition of the TMLA in Frutillar Chile from September 23th through September 25th. Please contact our general manager Peter Holzweber if you are interested in an appointment.

Since July 21st Aerosur is operating an additional frequency for the route Cusco – La Paz and viceversa. Aerosur is linking Peru and Bolivia three times a week: on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.

Two new train companies, Andean Railways and Inca Rail plan to enter the market oft rain journeys. PeruRail as well as the two new operators signed contracts approving the access to operate in Ollanta-Machu Picchu rail route last August. Andean Railways expects to begin operating some of the six granted frequencies by November ‘09. A few weeks ago Andean Railways showed tour operators in Lima, among them Setours, its two brand rail wagons, that fulfill the standards of the AAR (American Railroads)and FRA(Federal Railroad Administration. La capacidad total que ofrecerá Andean Railways es de 100 asientos.

Casa Andina’s brand new fibreglass boat with capacity for 16 pax with reclining airline seats, onboard toilet and equipped with the highest communication technology and security devices will be ready to operate daily departures to Casa Andina Private Collection – Isla Suasi from Puno on the 15th of October! Thanks to this acquisition transport costs to reach the island could be considerably cut, making it more affordable to plan a stay on Suasi.

From October ‘09Aerodiana will operate with an additional Cessna caravan. The new acquisition is able to carry 12 passengers and is equipped with 12 window seats for maximum visibility while flying over the Nasca Lines.

The brand new Libertador Paracas Luxury Collection, a Starwood brand, announced its pre-opening for October 27th 2009. The hotel chain has invested USD 30 million in building this new five star hotel after the eathquake in 2007 destroyed the former Hotel Paracas. See further information about Libertador Paracas.

In an aim to provide an overview of the frequencies to Machu Picchu next year, we have compiled the information provided by Peru Rail and the two new train companies Inca Rail and Machu Picchu Train. Click here to download our time table.

The 4* hotel has recently finished refurbishment's in its public areas and all 82 rooms. Special rates for the remaining of the year and 2010 are already available in our PARTNER ZONE. See pictures under following link.

The hotel chain Casa Andina has announced a concrete opening date for its fourth property in Lima, Casa Andina Classic Miraflores Parque. The new hotel, just steps away from CA Private Collection Miraflores, will have 157 rooms and open its doors by the end of Oct ‘10. This property aims at meeting the demand in Lima for tourist superior accommodation for large groups at affordable rates.

The temple of the moon in Trujillo, built by the pre-Inca culture Mochica (100 and 900 AD), will open its own museum in December ‘09. The project is being executed by the University of Trujillo and backed by the private sector. The new museum will not only display the artifacts found in the temple during the excavations but will feature a research center for students and practitioners.

Travellers have now a good reason to stay longer in Lima and find out why it is considered Latin America’s gastronomic capital. The Country Club 5*, one of Peru’s national monuments announced a special promotion. Guests staying three nights pay only two from December ’09 through March ’10. The hotel‘s restaurant, awarded last year as the best hotel restaurant, is the perfect place to start sampling Peruvian fusion cuisine.

As every year some of the Casa Andina hotels will be closed for annual maintenance, CA Puno Plaza (January 2010), CA Puno Tikarani (February 2010), CA Private Collection Suasi (February 2010). Guests with confirmed reservations at CA Plaza Puno for January 2010 will be hosted at the CA Tikarani. Confirmed reservations at the Tikarani for February 2010 will be derived to CA Puno Plaza.

If you are planning to travel to Puno in the upcoming February, we recommend you to match your stay with the in this time proceeding celebrations, taking place in honor of the Virgen of Candelaria every year. The recommended dates are as follows: January 31st – regional dancing contest with regional dances and traditional costumes, February 1st – parade of the dancers, February 7th – regional dancing contest in gala costumes, February 9th – concert of different bands, February 10th – the Sicuris and Zampoñas panpipes’ parade.

The Orient-Express group will invest approximately USD 14 million into its new property, currently known as Monasterio Cusco. The new ‘Palacio Nazarenas’ will provide 56 suites and a Spa area with pool. In addition, the colonial property dating back to 1715, features a chapel that will be refurbished, too. The hotel’s opening is expected for 2011.

Orient Express announced the acquisition of a fifth property in Peru, the Rio Sagrado boutique lodge in the Sacred Valley of the Incas (opened in April 2009). The hotel, 15-min drive from Ollantaytambo, has eleven deluxe and ten junior suites plus a 220 sq m and a 330 sq m villa. The Sacred Valley has gained popularity as destination not only due to its lower altitude compared to Cusco city but also since Ollanta station has become the main departure point for train frequencies to Machu Picchu.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announced the opening of Libertador Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort, marking the debut of the first of three Luxury Collection hotels opening in Peru over the next two years. The property is located next to the Paracas Natural Reserve on the southern Pacific coast. Hotel Libertador Paracas features 120 guest rooms with private terraces, a 1500 m² (5000 ft) foot spa, two outdoor pools, more than1500 m² (5000 ft) of event space and two signature restaurants and lounges.

La Casona Inkaterra in Cusco is the first property in Peru to become part of the family of 475 luxury hotels and restaurants in 55 countries throughout the world. The group originated in France is known for its extremely strict admission standards. Members must have special features distinguishing them from conventional hotels. There are only 11 properties in South America that belong to this exclusive collection. La Casona has been elected as one of the best 45 new hotels worldwide by Travel + Leisure. Conde Nast Traveler has ranked La Casona among the best 140 new hotels worldwide.

Cusco’s Tourist Ticket (BTG) to access to the city’s nearby archaeological sites (Kenko, Tambomachay, Puka Pukara and Sacsayhuaman), as well as to Ollantaytambo Fortress (among other tourist attractions) has a 50% price reduction. Additionally get two tickets for the price of one for Cusco’s Religious Circuit. This entrance fee covers the Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, San Blas and La Compania Churches. Promotions are valid through the end of March .

As every year, we will attend the next edition of the ITB in Berlin from March 10 – 14th. Feel free to drop by PROMPERU’s stand, in the hall 1.1/101. For appointments please send us an e-mail.

LAN has announced a special promotion for passengers coming from South American countries to Peru. You get a round trip ticket Lima-Cusco for free when buying an international round trip LAN flight to Peru. Travelers from the US have the additional advantage to choose from any destination served by LAN in Peru. Ask your LAN sales executive for further details and restrictions.

Click here to find our latest update on the access to Machu Picchu.

Effective February, 1st the airport tax for domestic flights in Peru has been increased to USD 7.

The Cusco-Machu Picchu’s railway operator announced that thanks to the great efforts of its engineers, the train line from Piscacucho to Machu Picchu will be operative again by March 29th, provided that favorable weather conditions continue. Clic here to download the map.

We have original sightseeing excursions in Cusco with different focus as gastronomy, art and communities. Find the detailed descriptions in our PARTNER ZONE under the link ‘New Products Cusco’.

Good news for travellers looking for first class accommodation in Lima! The hotel Sol de Oro has granted us special rates for its refurbished rooms. For a small price difference you can yet upgrade your standard 4* accommodation to an upscale first class hotel in Lima. Check the rates in our PARTNER ZONE.

De Sol y Barro Sanctuary Lodge is the name of this new boutique hotel located in the peaceful district of Moche (15-min drive from Trujillo) and accros the pre-Inca sites of Huacas del Sol y la Luna (Moche culture). This is great news for travelers with interest for unique cultural trips and hotels with intimate charm. The hotel features 14 junior and 6 premium suites, all with jacuzzi and independent terraces surrounded by beautiful gardens. Check out negotiated rates in our PARTNER ZONE.

The carrier Air Europa, member of Skyteam Alliance, launched in February its three weekly flights Madrid – Lima. It is planned to increase the frequencies to five or six by December 2010.

Reservations until May 31st 2010 apply for different promotions that Inkaterra has launched. La Casona has a 2x1 promotion. You get an additional night for every night reserved at this boutique property in Cusco. Travelers staying one night at La Casona and one night at Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel get a USD 250 bonus to be used for an additional night in any of these hotels. A third night at Reserva Amazonica is free if you stay one night at La Casona and at least 2 nights at Reserva Amazonica in the Peruvian Amazon.

The Bolivian government has introduced an entrance fee for those travelers visiting the Uyuni Salt Plains and the lagoons comprised in the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve. The entrance fee, effective May 2010, is USD 25 per person.

We joined Inkaterra’s first fam trip to present its newest property ”El Mapi”. The former ‘Machu Picchu Inn’ has been refurbished to cater to budget-minded travelers. We were surprised by the new concept accomplished in the restaurant and the bar, with contribution of Jordi Puig, one of Peru’s most renowned architects. Definitely El Mapi fills the gap given in Aguas Calientes in accommodations in the tourist class and differentiates its proposal offering first quality cuisine, originally designed common areas and professional service.

Travel agents would not recognize the former hotel Savoy Cusco, yet a hotel of the Sonesta chain. We inspected the Sonesta Cusco that will open officially by the end of the month. The hotel has an exquisite contemporary décor and will be an additional property in the first class superior category in Cusco city.

Aqua Expeditions announced their plans to launch their second five-star luxury cruise ship on the Peruvian Amazon, the M/V Aria, in April 2011. It will feature 16 specially designed cabins with floor to ceiling picture windows, a fully air-conditioned top deck with Observation Lounge, an exercise room, outdoor jacuzzi with sun deck, as well as the Aqua Expeditions' signature restaurant.

While the train railway to Machu Picchu is being repaired, Perurail announced this week the introduction of a special service using two Andean Explorers carriages. This additional daily departure will be available from May 1st to June 30th. The service includes the drive by bus from Cusco to Piscacucho train station.

Taray is a small town in Cusco region, where 140 families lost their homes to the floods that affected Southern Peru last summer. Our team in Cusco visited Taray and brought food and blankets to help lighten their loss. We thank all the guides, companies and clients that selflessly collaborated with us. Click here to see pictures.

School season in Peru has already started but the school in Taray was severely affected and needs to be rebuilt. SETOURS is raising funds for this cause. If you wish to donate please contact us at marketing(at)setours.com. Children in Taray will appreciate it.

Last week PeruRail presented to our team the features of its refurbished Backpacker coaches. Enhancements include panoramic windows, A/C, heating, 60 cm seat pitch, tables, rack for backpacks, a new suspension system, as well as better illumination and sound system. Click here to see pictures of the new ‘backpacker’ service.

The airline LC Busre has started the operation of daily flights to Chachapoyas from Chiclayo on May 17th. Chachapoyas is the departure point for excursions to the archaeological site of Kuelap and the Gocta Falls, among others. The flight is an alternative to the extremely long drive from Chiclayo to Chachapoyas.

The Peruvian Tourism Ministry announced that according to the Country Brand Index (a survey conducted among travelers worldwide) Peru is among the top ten countries in five categories including: culture, art, natural beauty and archaeology. Peru was ranked third in both art and culture.

Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel is the new chain property, to open next October. Built as a colonial mansion in 1700’s, it will feature 43 oxygen-enriched rooms and suites; as well as a restaurant and a bar where guests will savor fine creations made with Andean ingredients. Its elegant decoration will boast colonial paintings and sculptures.

The new owners of Larcomar shopping center, where the Sala de Oro del Perú (Gold Museum Hall) is located, together with the owners of this exhibit have decided to cancel their contract. Consequently, the museum will be open only until June 8th. We regret this sudden decision and are evaluating the itineraries that include this visit. If this is your case, your account executive will get in touch with you to propose another option, since this visit cannot longer be offered.

Casa Andina inaugurated officially its 18th property, Casa Andina Sausal, in Chincha last Thursday. We followed the invitation and headed south. Located 3 ½ hours by car from Lima and only 45 minutes from Paracas, this 3* hotel unfolds an array of interesting excursions. To name a few… the Inca archaeological site of Tambo Colorado and the Pisco distillery Viñas de Oro are just two of the attractions that Chincha boasts. See pictures here.

Once in Chincha we took some time to inspect the Libertador Paracas. The hotel opened last December as the most luxurious accommodation in Paracas and surroundings. The hotel, part of Starwood’s Luxury Collection, is in fact a unique haven to be pampered before flying back home (take a look on the treatments offered at its 547 sqm spa). Though the Libertador offers as well many activities for the more active travelers including kayaking, windsurfing, photo and biking tours. The fact sheet is already updated in our PARTNER ZONE. See pictures here.

LAN announced the operation of a new flight serving the route Lima-Iguazu from January 2011. The carrier has been steadily expanding its network out of Lima. Several international destinations have been added in the last 12 months including Cordoba in Argentina, Iquique in Chile, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and Cartagena in Colombia.

A great option for travelers looking for a hotel with intimate atmosphere has opened in Providencia, Santiago. Boutique Hotel Le Reve, with only 28 guestrooms and 3 suites, rests in a beautiful home which was declared a Chilean national monument and its exquisite French architecture lives in perfect harmony with the technological enhancements of our world today.

During our last inspection trip to Puno, we confirmed that there is much more to see and do than the classic Uros and Taquile excursion. The Ticonata community organizes sailboat rides in the Titicaca Lake and has recently inaugurated a small museum exhibiting mummies (1.100 – 1.400 AC) found on the island. Llachon, boasting beautiful and traditional textiles also rents kayaking equipment and is an alternative to Taquile but with much less tourists. Finally, the trip from Puno to Cusco has an alternative route stopping at the colonial city of Lampa, at the “Puyas” Forest of Tarucani and at the Tinajani canyon before arriving in the Inca City. Ask for the price of these programs to your account executive. See pictures here.

Setours was appointed by PromPeru – the Peruvian Tourism Bureau – as tour operator for its VIP Mexican press tour, who took place from June 21st to 29th, visiting Lima and Cusco. The group included journalists from Travel & Leisure, the renowned newspaper La Reforma and American Express' Expressions Magazine.

Beginning January 5th, 2011, LAN will operate the Lima – Easter Island route twice a week (Wednesdays and Sundays) in a modern 767. The flights will depart from Lima at 00:55 hrs, arriving at 06:15 hrs. Departures from Easter Island are scheduled for 13:00 hrs, arriving in Lima at 17:50 hrs.

Perurail found a new name for its tourist class refurbished cars. The improved 'backpacker' cars will be named from now on 'Expedition'. Click here for a summary of the 'Expedition' and 'Vistadome' features.

Maintenance works will be carried out in the ‘Hiram Bingham’ deluxe train to Machu Picchu in November ’10 , and March and April ’11. Specifically the train will run without observation car next November and only with one dining coach with capacity for 42 passengers in March and April next year.

A brand new museum next to the Temple of the Moon - one of the icons of Trujillo city - has opened its doors last June. The temple of the Moon is a pyramid entirely made out of mud bricks. Visitors can admire the high degree of artistic development achieved by the Mochicas (100 AD to 800 AD) especially brought out in the wall paintings. The museum displays artifacts found during excavations and serves as well as a study center for researchers and scholars alike. The museum is opened from TUE to SUN (from 9 am to 4 pm). Entrance is free.

The launch of the refurbished Delfin I is expected for Oct 2010. It will be the most exclusive and sophisticated small river vessel cruising the Amazon Basin. Delfin I will feature 4 large Premium Suites of 100 m2 with floor to ceiling windows - each suite with its own private 95 m2 (316-square feet) sun decks and 2 of them will have private Jacuzzi. Services on board include wellness treatments, a reference library, exotic bar and an Amazon specialist who will introduce you to the wonders of the Upper Amazon.

Setours supported the initiative of Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel to organize a journey for Brazilian journalists. The press tour took place from August 2nd to 6th and included Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu. Participants represented Correio Brasiliense, Caderno Boa Viagem, Revista Gula, Viaje Mais and Prazeres da Mesa.

From October 15th through December 15th 2010, Aeroparque airport will remain closed in order to enlarge its capacity. Consequently departures and arrivals to/from Buenos Aires will be operated from Ezeiza Airport in the meantime.