Cruise the Amazon 15 days, 12 nightsRio 2 nights, Iguaçú 2n, Manaus 1n, Amazon cruise 7n.Day 1 Overnight departure to Rio from the UK. Days 2&3 Excursions are included to Christ the Redeemer's statue on Corcovado Mountain and the cable-car to the top of the Sugar Loaf. Days 4&5 Fly to Foz do Iguaçú and explore Iguaçú Falls, with an excursion to the Argentinean side. Day 6 Fly to Manaus, modern city in the heart of Amazônia with a rich vein of history surviving in its ports and architecture. Days 7-13 Embark on the MV Tucano for your 7-night Amazon cruise. This spacious, traditional-style vessel has 9 air-conditioned cabins and meanders far up the Rio Negro into virgin rainforest. In the company of naturalist guides, explore shady creeks by canoe and forest trails on foot, visit local settlers and identify some of Amazônia's exotic flora and fauna. Back on board, presentations complement these adventures. You can enjoy wonderful views over the jungle from the observation decks and saloon, relaxing with a cooling drink as macaws screech across the sky at sundown. Return to Manaus and spend the last night on board. Day 14 Fly to São Paulo and connect to the UK arriving day 15. Prices from £3,067pp based on two sharing, excluding transatlantic flights. Fortnightly departures from the UK paul harris / john warburton-lee photographyAMAZON NATURE TOURSIguaçú FallsBOLIVIAPERUManaus.AMAZONBRAZIL.Rio de JaneiroBOLIVIA020 8747 8315 / journeylatinamerica.co.uk bookings, consultant advice and additional information 87Below The Tucano can take guests to stretches of river most jungle lodges cannot reach.

88Ecuador sits astride the equator. Its relatively tiny size belies its staggering geographical diversity, from snow-capped Andean volcanic peaks to remote Amazon rainforests and wild Pacific beaches. The Galápagos Islands also form part of Ecuador's territory (see p102). There's a strong indigenous tradition in the highland villages, with cottage crafts and hand-woven textiles piled high in the lively markets. Ecuador is compact and easy to get around. Roads are almost invariably scenic and journeys are of a comfortable length. Short domestic flights and even the odd train trip complete the transport network. There's a comprehensive range of outdoor activities and some lovely country farm hotels where you can unwind in exquisite scenery.