APT (Australian Pacific Touring) has released their new 2011/12 South America brochure of Small Group Escorted Journeys with Early Bird savings up to $1,500 per couple for bookings by November 30, 2011.

VP of Sales and Marketing Nicole De Wilde attributed the “exceptionally robust response” to a number of factors—a fabulously diverse destination, small group sizes with a maximum 24 passengers, no-rush itineraries, luxury hotels, indulgent train journeys, exotic cruises, and APT extensive range of exclusives such as the Hiram Bingham by Orient-Express, Spanish classes at Café Tortoni and an up-close encounter with the elusive Toucan near Iguassu Falls National Park. “It appears we have really hit the mark, not only with APT customers who have experienced our style in Europe, but other discerning travelers considering South America for their next discovery,” she said.

Tours range from the 9-day Galapagos Islands and Ecuador to the 21-day The Very Best of South America, priced from $4,895 pp, land only. “APT’s Signature Experiences” include Argentina’s most exclusive tango show and dinner at Rojo Tango, an optional five-hour trek along the Inca Trail, an Orient-Express train journey on the Hiram Bingham from Machu Picchu to Cusco and a two-night stay at the Ritz-Carlton Santiago.

On the 16-day Patagonia Lakes with Buenos Aires & Rio de Janerio, there is an excursion on Lake Titicaca (Uros Islands, the Capachica Peninsula and Llachon, a local community by the lake), staying three nights in the heart of the Argentine Lake District at Llao Llao Hotel and Resort and a typically Andean lunch with a local family.

Other highlights are experiencing Iguassu Falls from both the Argentinean and Brazilian sides, and riding a jet boat up close to the base of the falls and enjoying the panoramic views from the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu. Amazon Lodge and Galapagos Cruise extensions are offered on most tours. APT is a USTOA member for traveler security and peace of mind.

APT (Australian Pacific Touring), 800-290-8687, www.aptouring.com