Contiki Holidays announces its first amazing trips to South America

World’s leading youth travel company offers authentic adventures to the Latin hotspots of Peru, Argentina & Brazil

2011 marks not only the 100th Anniversary of Machu Picchu’s incredible rediscovery, but also Contiki Holidays’ 50th year as the world’s leading travel company for 18 to 35 year olds. To celebrate, Contiki is thrilled to announce the launch of its brand new South America programme, with six amazing tours spanning three of the hottest Latin destinations, Peru, Argentina and Brazil. Each country offers spectacular landscapes, vibrant cultures, unique cuisines and sizzling nightlife.

Plus five lucky young travellers and a friend have the chance to win a trip of a lifetime to discover this fantastic continent, with Contiki’s exciting Pin Me If You Can online contest (www.pinmeifyoucan.com).

Having experienced overwhelming success launching smaller group tours in Asia in 2008, the tour company continues to stay on the pulse of trends in youth travel with its latest addition, which recognises the growing popularity of South America and aims to satisfy many travellers wanderlust for the continent.

Whilst continuing to innovate with the addition of exotic and off the beaten path destinations, Contiki remains true to its philosophy of bringing together like-minded travellers from around the globe who are seeking cool adventures, authentic cultural experiences and plenty of free time to explore.

In addition to Contiki’s core values, the company has adapted their tours to fit the style of destination, aiming to provide interesting local tastes of each and every place visited. Groups average around 20 travellers, sized perfectly for an intimate and real South American experience, yet large enough to meet plenty of other travellers.

Contiki’s quality accommodation, blend comfort and uniqueness, including charming and well-located three star hotels and “Special Stays” like an Amazon rainforest eco-lodge. Every itinerary offers incredible value for young travellers with included local flights, meals, exclusive Contiki Only inclusions, plenty of sightseeing and optional activities.

Locally run, privately chartered transportation is complemented with an eclectic mix of bicycles, motorised canoes, trains, cable cars and triciclos. All trips are supported by Contiki’s own knowledgeable tour managers and experienced local guides whose expert knowledge brings the experience to life.

Young travellers can book these trips immediately, with the first tours running in November 2011. Trips range from the 8-day Andes & Amazon Highlights to the 24-day The Adventurer which explores all three spectacular countries.

Whether it is watching the sunrise at Machu Picchu’s ancient Sun Gate on the Peru Uncovered, marveling at the breathtaking Iguassu Falls during the Argentina & Brazil Experience, or experiencing an island cruise in Buzios while on the 18-day The Explorer, each of these fantastic tours feature countless awe-inspiring moments.

Through hiking the famous Inca Trail trek, learning to tango in Buenos Aires, and taking in Lake Titicaca’s unspoilt floating islands, adventure-seekers will discover many of the diverse experiences that make South America so special.

It takes two to tango, so during May 2011 five travellers will have the opportunity to win a Contiki trip for two, including airfares, through the innovative Pin Me If You Can contest. The contest highlights the diversity of the destinations via the release of weekly video clips featuring the passionate stories of real South American locals, including an Amazon jungle guide, a surfer, a bar owner, a photographer and an artist.

Entrants must pinpoint their exact location using a Google Maps mashup on the Pin Me If You Can website (www.pinmeifyoucan.com), with additional clues released on Contiki’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/contiki) and twitter (@ContikiSA).