Calendar of Events and Festivals

Friday, January 16th, 2009

Events for 2009 in: Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, Ecuador, Brazil, Peru, Columbia, Venezuela

This is a Calendar of events in Bolivia,Guyana, Suriname, Ecuador, Brazil, Peru, Columbia, Venezuela throughout the coming year 2009 including cultural & gastronomic festivals, conferences and roundtables, spectacular tourism land and water exhibitions, pageants and exhibitions tourism fairs and sporting events …. as well as much much more

JANUARY 2009

01 January 2009 -New Years Party Surifesta

Where: Suriname – Paramaribo

  • The Famous end of year Surifesta of Suriname is held every year on New Years eve. The Surifesta Foundation is the organization that is the lobby group for the festivities concerning “Owruyari” (the end of the year parties and New Year’s Eve). Festivities and end of year Calendar are well known to all in Suriname and people wait in eager anticipation for this exciting event
    The Surifesta Foundation organizes some of these big activities regarding the end of the year celebrations as well. Some of these activities that are held yearly are: The Surifesta Kick Off Party; a “Kawina Festival”

16 – 18 January 2009- 9th Annual Napo River Festival

Where: Ecuador – Tena

  • Organised by the Ecuadorian River Institute this Event is used to raise awareness of the Napo River watershed and the importance it has in the daily life of Ecuador. “This unique gathering seeks to educate the public about watershed issues, preserve cultural traditions, and promote sustainable forms of development and resource management”
  • The Napo river is of vast importance as last major tributary of the the Amazon River in Ecuador that remains free-flowing and has minimal contamination and development in its headwaters
  • This is a free event which hosts a variety of contests includint: Flip -rafting, Inner Tube Racing, Kayak Rodeo, A massive downriver Float and much more … of course!
  • http://www.kayakecuador.com/default.htm

20 January 2009 – Saint Sebastian Festivity

Where: Brazil – Canutama AM

January , a month when all over Brazil events and festivals are held to pay homage to Saint Sebastian (San Sebastian)  who was the patron saint of Pipa. Festivities take place over 3 days and planning begins 4 months before. On the day of celebration, street stalls, bingo and of course crazy Brazilian bands come out to perform at their best.

  • The Story:It all started when the patron saint of athletes, soldiers and the guardian of love, showed compassion on Pipa at the beginning of the last century .

    Mr Antonio Pequeno, one of the respecters of local tradition, tells a story his grandfather, (of the same name) and who had been the church warder since its construction, told him. In 1919 a Spanish ship came by, headed for Para, leaving in its wake the dreaded influenza – the plague! Wherever it went it left a trail of death. Dona Chica, of the velho Castelo family had a small statue of Saint Sebastian and decided to pray for Pipa – to keep the plague away.

    If her prayers were met she promised to inaugurate a church in the saint’s name and make him patron of the village. Once this promise was made not a single inhabitant more caught the dreaded disease. In the 40’s building of the church was started and later, the artist Agnaldo Simoneti, who often visited, made two statues of the saint. One is on the altar of the church and the other was placed on a rock in the sea to show the saint that many people, both on land and sea have faith in his protection

27 January – 1 February 2009 – 8th World Social Forum

- Highlighting the Amazon’s Diversity

Where: Brazil, Belem – PA

An open platform for discussing alternative paths to sustainable development. This is an annual meeting held by members apposed to globalisation. The meeting tends to be in January when its “great capitalist rival” the World Economic Forum is meeting in Switzerland.

FEBRUARY 2009

01- 05  February  2009 -Carnival of Manaus Samba Schools and Carnaboi Parade

Where: Brazil – Manaus AM

03 – 05 February 2009 – Carnailha

Where: Brazil – Parintins AM

04 February 2009 – Aniiversary of the Fort of Sao Jose de Macapa

Where: Brazil – Macapa RR

9 – 15 February 2009 – Scucmbios Challenge 3rd Edition

Where: Ecuador


12 February 2009 -  The Route of the Amazon

Where: Ecuador – Fco. de Orellana

20- 22 February 2009 – Carnival

Where: Suriname

20- 24 February 2009 – Carnival in the Middle of the World

Where: Brazil – Macapa RR

21 February 2009 – Election of the World Ecotourism Queen

Where:Ecuador – Tena

21 – 23 February 2009 – 2nd World Ecotourism Fair

Where: Ecuador – Tena

23 February 2009 – Mashramani

Where: Guyana – Georgetown



Street Bands – Rio Carnival 2009

Tuesday, January 13th, 2009

Carnival in Rio is not just about the parade, there is SO much more…

Carnival street bands play music in the streets, revelers joining in, drinking and dancing away. All you have to do is to turn up and join in. It is all free.

Below, please find a list with a selection of the best Rio Carnival Street Bands, their 2009 Carnival route and schedule.

There are many more bands and processions besides the ones that we have listed – approximately 300 bands are expected to take to the streets at the up-coming Carnival.
The biggest band processions take place in Av. Rio Branco, Downtown (Centro). From Saturday to Tuesday you can see the greatest variety of street bands there, with traditional groups such as Cordão do Bola Preta, Cacique de Ramos, Bafo da Onça, to mention just a few. A visit at the end of the afternoon is always entertaining. This is where the “real” carnival takes place.

ZONA SUL

Banda de Ipanema
City District: IPANEMA
Parade: both Saturdays before Carnival and Shrove Carnival 17:00
Route: Praça General Osório,
Ipanema Beach, Leblon

Simpatia é Quase Amor
City District: IPANEMA
Parade: One Saturday before Carnival and Carnival Sunday 17:00
Route: Teixeira de Mello and Vieira Souto – Posto 10 (Country Club)

Imprensa Que Eu Gamo
City District: LARANJEIRAS
Parade: two Saturdays before Carnival 16:00
Route: Mercadinho São José das Artes, Rua Gago Coutinho

Monobloco
City District: COPACABANA
Parade: Sunday after Carnival 9:00 am
Route: along Av. Atlantica

Rancho Flor do Sereno
City District: COPACABANA
Parade: Carnival Monday 18:00
Meeting: Bar Bip-Bip, Rua Almirante Gonçalves 50
Route: Av. Atlântica, along the beach

Suvaco do Cristo
City District: JARDIM BOTÂNICO
Parade: Sunday before Carnival 13:00
Meeting: from
noon onwards at Bar Jóia (on the corner of Rua Jardim Botânico and Rua Faro)
Route: Rua Jardim Botânico, Praça Santos Dummont, in front of the Jockey Club

Bloco Que Merda é Essa?!
City District: IPANEMA
Parade: Carnival Sunday 14:00
Meeting: corner of Rua Garcia d’Ávila and
Nascimento Silva
Route
: Garcia d’Ávila, Vieira Souto to Arpoador

Bip-Bip
City District: COPACABANA
Parade: Carnival Saturday at
00:01am and Shrove Carnival at 11:59pm
Meeting: Bar Bip-Bip, Rua Almirante Gonçalves 50

Esse é o Bom, mas ninguém sabe
City District: COSME VELHO
Parade: Wednesday before Carnival 18:30
Meeting: Quadra dos Guararapes, Ladeira dos Guararapes

SANTA TERESA / DOWNTOWN

Céu na Terra
City District: SANTA TERESA
Parade: Carnival Monday 16:00
Meeting: Rua Dias de Barros, in front of the Bar do Serginho

Bloco das Carmelitas
City District: SANTA TERESA
Parade: Friday before Carnival
18:00 and Tuesday after Carnival 17:00
Meeting place: on the corner of Dias de Barros and
Ladeira de Santa Teresa
Route
: Dias de Barros, Alte. Alexandrino and Largo do Guimarães

Escravos da Mauá
City District: DOWNTOWN – Praça Mauá
Parade: Thursday before Carnival 19:00
Meeting place: Largo de S. Francisco da Prainha, close to
Rua Sacadura Cabral
Route
: Rua Sacadura Cabral, Praça Mauá, Av. Rio Branco, Rua Mayrink Veiga to Largo de Santa Rita, Rua do Acre, and back to Praça Mauá

Cordão do Bola Preta
City District: DOWNTOWN – (Cinelândia)
Parade: Carnival Saturday 16:00
Meeting place: Rua Sacadura Crabral, 373
Route: Rua Araújo Porto Alegre, Rua México, Praça Melvin Jones, Av. Nilo Peçanha and Largo da Carioca



Rio de Janeiro Carnival Guide 2009

Monday, January 12th, 2009

DAY BY DAY EVENTS

RIO CARNIVAL 2009

Every Carnival Day

In the evenings – Popular Dances Cinelândia
20.00 Concerts start at
Samba Land and in Lapa
23.00 Rio Scala Ball


Friday, February 20th
13.00 Opening Ceremony – the Carnival King (Momo) is crowned by the city mayor and receives the city´s keys
19.00 Children´s Samba Schools Parade

Saturday, February 21st
09.30 Street Band Cordão do Bola Preta (Downtown)
16.00 Banda de Ipanema meets at Praça General Osório, Ipanema
19.00 Official Costume Competition in Hotel Gloria
20.00 Street Band Competition in Av. Rio Branco, Centro (Downtown)
21.00 Parade of the Samba Schools in the Access Group
23.00 The Magic Ball at Copacabana Palace Hotel

Sunday, February 22nd
21.00 Parade of the Samba Schools in the Special Group

Monday, February 23rd
21.00 Parade of the Samba Schools in the Special Group

Tuesday, February 24th
16.00 Banda de Ipanema marches for the last time
21.00 Parade of the Samba Schools in Group “B”
23.00 Gay Costume Ball in Rio Scala



2009 Rio Carnival Balls

Monday, January 12th, 2009

Rio de Janeiro, as the City of Carnival, offers a selection of Carnival balls you really should not miss. You won’t have to spend a fortune to have a great time. Tickets to most balls will cost you around R$30 to R$50 ($15-20) and are available on the door. Exceptions are the two most famous ones in the luxury hotels Copacabana Palace and Gloria. Other great balls are in Rio Scala. Clube dos Caiçaras and the Hard Rock Cafe’s Kid’s Folia also organize animated costume balls for adults and children. There are more theme balls city-wide e.g. balls for singles etc.
Costumes are not mandatory, with the exception of a few balls. Putting on one will help you get in the right mood and will make the night even more special, though. Bear in mind however that
Rio is the capital of Carnival and costume standards are very high.
A true Carnival ball features live music and samba rules the floors. The percussion groups are full of vigor and can be just as loud as vast loud-speakers in a night club.

The Magic Ball at Copacabana Palace Hotel
Saturday, February 21st, from 23:00
This legendary ball is not just the high point of the night but also the most famous Carnival ball; the natural choice for glamour and sophistication. Luxury costume or black tie/evening dress is required, and a number of international and local VIPs are always among the guests. All tickets include buffet dinner and free bar.
There are different tickets for the individual dining rooms. All tickets provide access to all ballrooms.
Tickets for the Golden Room include a seat at a table of 6, 10 or 12 people.
Tickets for the Noble Room include a seat at a table of 10 or 12.
Standing tickets do not offer a table seat; however, good weather allowing, there will be tables on the balcony.
Golden Room: from R$1,950.00 (approx. R8800.00)
Noble Room from: R$1,300.00 (approx. R5800.00)
Standing: R$1,000.00 (approx. R4500.00)
Box: R$2,750 per person (approx. R12 400.00)
Venue: Copacabana Palace Hotel, Avenida Atlantica 1702 – Copacabana
Tel: (+55 21) 2545 8790

Official Costume Competition in Hotel Gloria
Saturday, February 21st
This is a very traditional Carnival event in
Rio with the best, biggest and most original costumes of the year (mainly the so called destaques). It offers you the chance to see the best costumes of the principal samba schools before the Samba Parade, at close hand. There are also entrants with costumes only made especially for this event.
It is a big night with app. 900 people attending and it takes place in the halls of Hotel Gloria, one of the best and smartest hotels in
Rio. The presentation is very theatrical. The huge and dazzling costumes represent historical characters or any chosen theme, according to the imagination of the gentlemen, ladies and drag queens who participate in the event. They compete in 4 categories: the sumptuous, the original, drag queen and soul.
You do not have to wear a costume; you can just go and see the competition.
Venue: Hotel Gloria, Rua do Russel 632 – Gloria
Doors open at 18.30 and the competition starts at 19.00. It finishes at about
22:30.
Admission: R$50.00 – free ticket delivery within the city of Rio
Tickets are on sale at the hotel or at Rua Senador Dantas 117 / Room 2009 – Centro (Downtown) or call and reserve on 2267-1692 / 8804-9484 (Senhora Nilce-only Portuguese spoken).

Ball Masque 2009
Friday, February 27th, 22:00-05:00
Live music taking turns with a DJ and the drummers of
Imperatriz, one of the best Rio samba schools. This will be its third year and this time the theme is ‘Moulin Rouge’ .
Dress formal or wear a fancy-dress.
Venue: Hotel Sofitel, Av. Atlântica 4240 / Level E – Copacabana
Admission: R$370.00
Table seat per person: R$500.00
Prices include free buffet and drinks
Tel: (+55 21) 2525-1206 (Alexandra-English spoken
9:00-18:00)


SCALA BALLS

In its 20th year, the Scala nightclub offers thematic dances every night during Carnival, having the grandest indoor carnival parties of the city. The venue is big and very well-known.
Venue:
Rio Scala, Avenida Afrânio de Melo Franco 296 – Leblon
Tel: (+55 21)2239-4448 / 2511-4140 (only Portuguese spoken)

You will find standard tickets for most events on the door even on the night, just do not arrive too late.
You are advised to buy tickets for the Gala and the Gay Costume balls 3-5 days in advance. Reserve tables and
boxes 3-5 days in advance on the above number.
Table prices per table seating 4 people.
VIP box prices are per person and include unlimited alcoholic drinks (except whiskey) and free buffet with sushi, fruit and snack bar.

Thursday, January 19th
Mangueira Carnival Ball

It is a good opportunity to experience the music and atmosphere of one of the most traditional and well-known samba schools (Mangueira) without having to visit its rehearsal space. The School will have it all – its drummer group, its principal samba dancers and the flag bearer and her escort. It is a true and real samba night; you can dance all night or just watch and enjoy the crowd. This is a traditional event which happens every year.
Admission: R$40.00
VIP box seat: R$160.00
Table: R$300.00

Friday, February 20th
Red and Black Ball

This night celebrates and is dedicated to the world-famous
Rio football team, Flamengo, with the red-and-black striped flag. It is one of the most popular nights.
Admission: R$80.00
VIP box seat: R$190.00
Table: R$600.00

Saturday, February 21st
Ball of the
Marvelous City
The night celebrates and is dedicated to the city of
Rio de Janeiro.
Admission: R$80.00
VIP box seat: R$190.00
Table: R$600.00

Sunday, February 22nd
Gala Ball

This is the biggest ball in the series with some special guests.
Admission: R$40.00
VIP box seat: R$160.00
Table: R$300.00

Monday, February 23rd
Ball of the ´Beer´

A new event in the series. Unlimited and free beer all night. Live music by a Carnival band taking turns with a Rio DJ (Mc Marcinho).
Admission: R$50.00
VIP box seat: R$160.00
Table: R$300.00

Tuesday, February 24th until 7:00 am
Gay Costume Ball

It is probably the most famous night in the series. A truly exotic collection of characters take to the two floors and a grand entrance is de rigueur – the ball is broadcast to the whole of
Brazil. A flamboyant crowd with lots of drag queens and their admirers.
It is very popular with all folks not only gay boys and girls.
Admission: R$80.00
VIP box seat: R$200.00
Table: R$700.00



Specials

Friday, January 2nd, 2009

Experience an adventure holiday like never before and join the crew of the Sean Paquiti IV for the Cape to Bahia Yacht Race

Salvador - The Capital Of Happiness, Bahia

Salvador - The Capital Of Happiness, Bahia

This epic advenutre happens annually and takes place this coming year on the 3 January 2009. Pangea International Tours invites you to join one of yachtings most challenging events aboard the Sean Paquiti IV cruising from Cape Town across to the sizzling capital of Bahia – Salvador.
Accommodation:
1 twin cabin with ensuite shower
1 double Cabin with ensuite shower
1 single Cabin with ensuite shower
Experience:
None required, be as involved with sailing as you want or just go along for the experience.
The Sean Paquiti IV - Cruising Yacht

The Sean Paquiti IV - Cruising Yacht

Competing yachts will span the spectrum of ocean-going vessels ranging from the miniature 6.5m mini-Transats to luxury multi-hull catamarans and hi-speed racers.  The record crossing time for the Cape to Rio race was set in 2000 with a time of 12 days 16 hours 49 minutes. If sailing is your passion then join the crew of the Sean Paquiti IV – a cruising yacht and try your hand crossing the Atlantic in the Cape to Bahia yacht race.The Cruise Fleet departs on the 3 January 2009 whilst the race fleet departs on 10 January 2009
Cruising Yacht on the Cape to Bahia Yacht Race

Cruising Yacht on the Cape to Bahia Yacht Race

CONTACT PANGEA INTERNATIONAL TOURS AND BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW
Experience the Sizzle of Salvador

Experience the Sizzle of Salvador

Race Information and Viewing points courtesy of www.southatlanticrace.co.za

RACE INFORMATION

Diary of events

Unless otherwise stated, all times are local

TIME EVENT Cruiser Fleet
Sat 3rd Jan 2009
IRC Fleet
Sat 10th Jan 2009
17.00 Entries Close (NOR 10.1) Friday 31st October 2008
17.00 Determination of Start Dates for Participants Saturday 29th Nov 2008
10.00 Tavern of the Seas – in Regatta Centre every day til 20.00 – music evenings to 24.00 1st Dec to 30th Dec, 2008
17.00 Late Entries Close (NOR 10.1) Saturday 6th Dec, 2008
17.00 Crew Competence Approval (NOR 9.1) Saturday 13th Dec, 2008
17.00 Submission of IRC Certificates (NOR 8.4 & SI 2.3) Saturday 20th Dec, 2008
15.00 Post Preliminary Fleet Ratings (SI 10) Mon 22nd Dec 2008
16.00 Whisky Tasting Tuesday 30th December 2008
15.00 Advertising Rules Apply (SI 7) Wednesday 31st December 2008
15.00 Time limit for Ratings Protests (SI 26.1) Thurs 1st Jan, 2009
15.00 Boats to Display Sponsor’s Decals (SI 8) Sat 27th Dec 2008 Sat 3rd Jan 2009
17.00 Time Limit to Change rating Certificates (NOR 8.5 & SI 2.4) Boats to submit Completed Inspection Check Lists (SI 9.1) Boat Eligibility (500 miles) (NOR 9.4) Submission of Crew List (NOR 9.9) Submission of Communication Information (SI 28.2) Mon 29th Dec 2008 Mon 5th Jan 2009
15.00 Time Limit for Boat Scrutiny (NOR 9.6) Fri 2nd Jan 2009 Fri 9th Jan, 2009
15.00 Blue Peter Party 2nd January, 2009 – Regatta Centre
10.00 Time Limit for Sailing Instructions Amendments (SI 5.1) Sat 3rd Jan 2009
11.00 Time Limit for Contingency Crew Changes (NOR 9.9) Final Clearance to Sail (SI 12) Special Arrangements to be made by Late Starters (SI 18) Sat 3rd Jan 2009 Sat 10th Jan 2009
14.00 START OF RACE (NOR 4.2) Sat 3rd Jan 2009 Sat 10th Jan 2009
17.00 RRS Part 2 replaced by Colregs (IRPCAS) (SI 1.3.4) Sat 3rd Jan 2009
15.00 UT RACE TIME LIMIT EXPIRES (NOR 5.1) Saturday 31st January 2009
20.00 GRAND PRIZE GIVING Sunday 1st February 2009 – Bahia Yacht Club
Daily All Boats to Report Daily Positions at 07.00 UT (See Radio Procedure)
Finish All boats to submit Declaration Forms & Protests (other than for ratings) within 6 hours of Finishing (SI 22.2)
RACE DAY VIEWING POINTS FOR THE CAPE TO BAHIA YACHT RACE

From the start just off the end of the breakwater at the V&A Waterfront, the boats will round a mark in Granger Bay and then slide along the coast to a second buoy off Mouille Point. The prime vantage point for spectators will be along the seafront just next to the CPUT Hotel School, where the boats will be close to the shore. For those who want a more panoramic view the best spot will be up on Signal Hill.



Island Holidays

Friday, October 17th, 2008

Island Hopping Holidays

Click on your Island destination to view available trips and information:


Malaysia

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Complete privacy on private islands in luxurious villas

Private Island in Malaysia from R26,599 pp
7 nights in luxury garden suite with ocean views
International return flight ex-Cape Town
Internal flight and water taxi to resort
Complimentary Chinese massage
Pangea Travel Gift
more…


Madagascar

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Discover something new every time you visit this unique destination

Madagascan Honeymoon from R21,825 pp
5 nights based on two people sharing
Flights included out of Johannesburg
Full board
Massage for two, Romantic dinner and a Sunset Cruise
Pangea Honeymoon Gift
more…


Maldives

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Luxury and fascinating culture

4 Star Island Getaway – Maldives from R15,650pp
7 nights based on two people sharing
Flights included ex Johannesburg
Land-based villa
Pangea Travel Gift
more…


Mauritius

Mauritius: lemorne beach.jpg

Ever popular beach destination – fantastic for families too

Mauritius Sea-side Holiday from R15,450 pp
7 nights
Half board
Flights included
Pangea Travel Gift
more…


Seychelles

Seychelles_sea.jpg

Perfect honeymoon destination, some of the best resorts worldwide

Simply Seychelles from R10,899 pp
7 nights based on two people sharing
B&B accommodation in double room
Flights included
Pangea Travel Gift
more…


Zanzibar

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So close, and so beautiful – a must see!

Pongwe Beach, Zanzibar from R9,789 pp
4 nights based on two people sharing
Half board accommodation
Spice Tour
Flights included
Pangea Island Gift
more…




Venezuela Fact Sheet

Wednesday, October 15th, 2008

Updated January 2009

Current time in Venezuela:

Venezuela lies at the top of South America, nestled between Colombia, Brazil and Guyana – with the Atlantic Ocean above it. One of our favourite destinations, Venezuela offers some truly unforgettable scenery such as South America’s largest lake and third longest river, the highest waterfall in the world (Angel Falls) and breathtaking landscapes.

The Orinoco Delta is a vast, intricate labyrinth of waterways weaving through a simmering jungle to carry the waters of the Orinoco to the Atlantic Ocean. The Orinoco branches off into over 60 caños (waterways) and 40 rivers which diffuse through 41,000 square kilometers of forested islands, swamps and lagoons. Between the rainforest of the Amazon Basin and the watershed of the Orinoco River is a rugged wall of remote mountains and deep, heavily forested canyons protected by the Canaima National Park. Many of the mountains have precipitous rock walls that rise to over 1800 meters (6000 feet) where they end in an almost perfectly flat top. These formations are known by their Indian name: Tepuis. The most famous of these tepuis is the Auyan-tepui, from which plummets the world’s highest waterfall – Angel Falls. The waterfall is more than twice as high as the Empire State Building and three times higher than the Eiffel Tower. The eastern part of Canaima National Park is known as the Gran Sabana, a special landscape of clear rivers, waterfalls and endless Tepuys which tower above rolling Savannah and forest

The Llanos are an incredible place to see wildlife. Apart from more than 300 species of birds (including scarlet ibis, hoatzin, screamers, soldier storks, spoonbills and many more) you may be lucky enough to spot jaguars, ocelots, anteaters, honey-bears, capybaras and alligators, in an environment still relatively undisturbed by man. The caribbean islands off the coast of Venezuela include Los Roques and Margarita – two beautiful destinations offering sandy beaches and turquoise waters, with great nightlife for the younger travelers.

When to go

Venezuela has two seasons – wet and dry. The dry season is better for traveling, although if your main attraction is the waterfalls they are most impressive just after the rains, and are sometimes impossible to get to by boat during the dry season. The dry season runs from late November to early May, and the wet season runs through the rest of the year. Peak season is over Christmas, Carnaval (February – lots of fun!) and Easter (March), and over these times you have to book accommodation early to avoid disappointment.

Notable Events in Venezuela for 2009

February Carnival (40 days before Good Friday)
April 19th: Filma del Acta de Indepndencia (Declaration of Independence)
5-12th: Easter (Holy Week)
May 1st: Dia del Trabajo (Labor Day)
3rd: La Cruz de Mayo (The Cross of May – annual)
June 11th: Devil dancers of Venezuela (annual)
23-25th: Fiesta de San Juan Bautista (Spring festival for St John the Baptist)
24th: Aniversario de la Batalla de Carabobo
July 5th: Dia de la Independencia (Indepence Day)
24th: Natalicio de Simon Bolivar (Birthday of Venezuela’s Independence hero)
August 15th: Fiesta de la Virgen Maria (Festivities of the Virgin Mary on Margarita Island)
September 8-15th: Fiesta de Nuestra Senora del Valle (Festivities of the Lady of the Valley – Margarita Island)
October 12th: Dia de la Raza (Colombus Day)
November 18th: Feria de la Chinita (Virgin Lady of Rosario of Chiquinquira or ‘La Chinita’ – Maracaibo)

Visa and Health Requirements for Venezuela

Visa – none required for South African passport holders when going on holiday, but you must apply for a DEX 2 card at the airport you fly to Venezuela from. The DEX 2 card allows you to stay in Venezuela for 90 days.

Vaccination – Yellow fever is compulsory if coming from/stopping over in an infected area; Polio, Tetanus, Hepatitis A and Malaria Prophylaxis are recommended.




Ecuador Fact Sheet

Wednesday, October 15th, 2008

Current time in Ecuador (Quito):

Situated in the jagged Andes, this tiny country is a great base to explore the colourful culture of the local people, world-famous tropical beaches, eye-opening wildlife reserves, ancient sites, and also the Amazonian jungle. In fact, some of our favourite eco-lodges are based in the Ecuadorian Amazon rather than in Brazil. Ecuador is also the gateway to the Galapagos Islands, so we suggest combining the Amazon and the Galapagos for a truly memorable trip.

The high seasons for visiting are December to January and June to August, but the weather is pretty fine all year round and there is no need to put yourself through the crowded tourist season unless you have to.

Contact us today for a personalised itinerary and quote

When to go

Ecuador changes between just two seasons – wet and dry, but the when and where do vary depending on how high you are! In the highlands it’s dry from June to September and over December, but the wet season is not unpleasant as it is usually sunny until late afternoon before a rainstorm. It is rainy all year in the Oriente, July and August being the wettest and September to December the driest – canoeing is great in the wet season. On the coast it’s wet from January to May, but again with sunny mornings. December, January, June and August are the most popular months for beach-goers, and accommodation is booked up fast.

Notable events in Ecuador for 2009

February Guaranda Carnival (annual – one of the best in Ecuador!)
14-24th: Fruit and Flower festival (annual – Ambato)
April 5-12th: Easter Week in Quito (annual)
May 1st – Labor Day
24th – Battle of Pichincha
July 24th – Simon Bolivar’s Birthday
August 10th – Quito Independence Day
October 9th – Guayaquil Independence Day
12th – Dia de la Raza (Columbus Day)
November 1st – All Saints’ Day
2nd – Day of The Dead (All Souls’ Day)
3rd – Cuenca Independence Day
Provincial Folklore Festival (annual – Ambato)
Nocturnal Flamenco Bullfighting Festival (annual – Quito)
December Nov-Dec: Street Art Festival (annual – Quito)
Nov-Dec: Bullfighting Fair (annual – Quito)

Visa and Health Requirements for Ecuador

Visa – none required for South African passport holders for holidays up to 3 months long. However, they must be in possession of a 6-month valid passport and onward ticket.

Vaccination – Yellow Fever is compulsory; Cholera, Typhoid, Polio, Tetanus, Rabies and Malaria Prophylaxis are recommended.

Updated January 2009



Chile Fact Sheet

Wednesday, October 15th, 2008

Current time in Chile (Santiago):

Stretching down alongside Argentina, and wedged between the Andes mountains and the Pacific ocean, Chile offers over 6,000 miles of coastline, crystaline lakes, and towering mountain ranges. The unusually long shape of the country results in a large range of climates, from the world’s driest desert in the north, Mediterranean weather in the centre, to a snowy Alpine climate in the south, with glaciers, fjords and lakes.

Currently, Chile is one of South America’s most stable and prosperous nations and makes for a wonderful holiday – be it a self-drive, skiing package, or a fishing trip through the beautiful lake district.

Contact us for a personalised itinerary and quote

When to go

Starting at the top of Chile the rainy season is in summer (December through March). Santiago and the middle of Chile are best seen in Spring (September to November) or autumn (March and April). Traveling further south the lake district is lovely in summer, and the Atacama Desert is great year-round (although temperatures are extreme, as with most deserts!). Winter is a snowy wonderland for skiers and the resorts are buzzing from July to September.

Notable events in Chile for 2009

February Iquiqui Carnival (annual – Playa Brava beach)
Feast of the Virgin of 40 hours (annual – Limache)
April 19th: Fiesta de Cuasimodo
June 29th: Fiesta de San Pedro de Atacama
July Festival of the Virgin of the Song (annual – La Tirana)
September FIS Snowboarding World Cup (annual – Valle Nevado)
Fiestas Patrias (annual – Santiago de Chile)
October Columbus Day (annual – Santiago de Chile)
December Virgen de lo Vasquez Pilgrimage (annual – pilgrimage to Valparaiso)
La Fiesta Grande (annual – Andacollo’s big festival)

Visa and Health Requirements for Chile

Visa – none required for South African and British passport holders for holidays up to 3 months long. However, you must be in possession of a 6-month valid passport and onward ticket.

Vaccination – none required

Updated January 2009



Peru Fact Sheet

Wednesday, October 15th, 2008

Updated January 2009

Current time in Peru (Lima):

For the more adventurous holiday-maker who enjoys hiking, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a must. Beginning in Cusco you will take a 3 night walking journey through the mountains above the Urubamba river, following the route of an old Inca road leading to the city of Machu Picchu. This journey will take you through some of the most spectacular sceneries of natural beauty, surrounded by mystery and filled with a rich history, all ending in one of the new wonders of the world – Machu Picchu.

The Inca Trail routes range between easy 2 day hikes and some more challenging 7 day treks.

Contact us today for a personalised itinerary and quote

When to go

The best time to do the Inca Trail is when the weather is mostly dry and sunny – from May to September. The winter months of June, July and August are particuarly cold at night (dropping to -1°C), so bring that extra-warm sleeping bag with you!

Notable events in Peru for 2009

January Festival de la Marinera (annual – Trujillo festival)
February 1-10th: La Virgen de la Candelaria (annual – Candlemas festival)
21-28 Feb: Carnival (annual – Cajamarca)
April 5-12th: Holy Week (Semana Santa – annual)
19-26th: National Horse Competition (annual – Lima)
May 1st: Labor Day (official holiday)
3rd: Festival of the Crosses
May/June: Q’oyoriti (Ausangate festival)
June 11th: Corpus Christi (annual festival – Cusco)
24th: Inti Raymi (annual Festival of the Sun – Cusco)
29th: San Pedro Y San Pablo (Feast of St Peter & St Paul – offical holiday)
July 16-29th: La Virgen Del Carmen (festival)
28-29th: Fiestas Patrias (National Independence Days – Lima)
August 30th: Feast of Santa Rosa De Lima (official holiday)
September El Festival Internacional de la Primavera (International Spring Festival in Trujilo)
October 4th – Virgen Del Rosario (annual 10-day festival – Cajabamba)
8th – Battle of Angamos Day (official holiday)
18th – El Senor de los Milagros (Lord of the Miracles festival in Lima)
November Puno Day (annual winter festival)
1st – Todos Santos (All Saints Day – official holiday)
2nd – Dia de los Muertos (All Souls Day – festival)
December 8th – Fiesta de la Purisima Concepcion (Feast of the Immaculate Conception – official holiday)
25th – Christmas Day (official holiday)
27th – Virgen del carmen de Chinca (El Carmen festival)

Visa and Health Requirements for Peru

Visa – none required for South African passport holders on holiday for up to 90 days. However, visitors must have a return or onward ticket and sufficient funds to support themselves while in Peru.

Vaccination – Yellow Fever compulsory; Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Malaria Prophylaxis are recommended