I always wanted to go to Patagonia and prefer trips with a hiking focus. This trip exceeded my expectations. The scenery is superb and the organisation was such that we were able to make the most of every day. It was well organised with a good mix of activities. Sophia was most helpful, and I appreciated having local guides when we were hiking in Torres del Paine and El Glacier national Park.
Why you’ll love this trip?
- Explore the amazing cultures and breathtaking landscapes of South America.
- Visit famous places like Rio and Machu Picchu.
- Uncover hidden gems in northern Argentina and Bolivia’s salt lakes.
- Great for newcomers to South America or those looking for more adventure.
- Experience the beauty and diversity of South America up close.
- Enhance your trip by adding other tours, like the Galapagos Islands
What’s the Activity level?
- Designed for moderately fit individuals prepared for active exploration
- Walking involved most days, providing a more immersive experience
- Inca sites feature numerous steps, offering unique challenges
- High altitudes in Cuzco, Puno, and the Sacred Valley may require acclimatisation.
What’s the transport and accommodation like?
- Travel on variety of transportation, including planes, motorised canoes, trains, and private vans
- Enjoy comfortable long-distance coach rides during the tour
- Enjoy cozy 3-star accommodations with private facilities and local charm.
- Hotels selected for their safety, location, ambiance, and friendly staff
*All our tours are non-smoking
TRIP SUMMARY
Duration: 30 days from Rio to Lima South American Sojourn
Trip focus: A moderately active sightseeing trip exploring the highlights of South America
Accommodation: 26 nights hotels, 3 nights Rain Forest lodge
Transport: Flight, bus, train, boat and van
Group size: Maximum 12 + S.E.T. tour leader, Minimum 6
Single supplement: US$1,970
**Internal Airfares subject to change. If not arriving with Lan Airlines, an airfare surcharge applies. Please ask for a quote
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- A spectacular Samba show
- Tours of the Corcovado and Sugar Loaf in Rio de Janeiro
- A tour exploring Iguazu Falls – both the Brazilian and Argentine sides
- A Buenos Aires city tour and exciting tango show
- 4WD excursion in Bolivia through the Uyuni Salt Lakes and coloured lagoons
- Colca Canyon excursion and entry to hot springs
- Full day guided tour of Lake Titicaca
- Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu guided tour
- Cusco cooking class and city tour
- Guided tour of the Uros Islands and Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca
- Eco Lodge Amazon Excursion (3 nights)
- Lima city tour and Shantytown community project visit
- Our bilingual tour leader throughout and also local guides for excursions
- All flights within the South America tour, all transport and accommodation
- A tip pool of US$120 per person for local guides and drivers
- The cost of entry fees for all scheduled tours
- Local payment of US$400
- All breakfasts, plus meals as listed
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
- All items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks, souvenirs etc
- International flights.
- Travel insurance, visas and vaccinations
- Tips for your tour leader
PAYING LOCALLY:
Many of our South America tours involve a local payment, which is included as part of your overall trip cost, and is deducted off the amount you pay to us prior to departure. These funds are then paid to your leader upon arrival in cash on day one of the trip, and put towards local expenses. In some developing countries the transferring of funds is at times problematic and many small hotels and operators only deal in cash payments. This in turn helps us support small local businesses, rather than turning to large operations.
All prices are approximate and subject to currency fluctuations until final payment has been made.
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL DAY RIO DE JANEIRO
Arrive in Rio de Janeiro for the start of your South America Tour. Transfer to your hotel and meet your tour leader. As most flights from New Zealand arrive late in the evening, we have nothing planned tonight, so relax: the adventure begins tomorrow.
Meals Included: None
DAYS 2 & 3 – RIO DE JANEIRO
We have a morning briefing on the adventure ahead. Then there’s time to sunbathe and swim at Copacabana or Ipanema Beach, before trying the local cuisine and night life. Rio by night – enjoy a dazzling show featuring Brazilian folkloric music, Carnival costumes and dances, with special emphasis on the world famous “Samba”. We take you to Corcovado, Statue of Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf. From the gigantic statue of Christ the Redeemer enjoy one of the most wonderful views of Rio de Janeiro: the beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon; the Lagoon and Sugar Loaf, which are nothing short of breathtaking.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts and 1 Dinner
DAYS 4 & 5 – IGUAZU FALLS
Transfer to the airport for our flight to the most beautiful and spectacular waterfalls in the world –Iguassu Falls. Enjoy a half day tour on arrival of the Brazilian side of the falls, then transfer to the Argentine side and our family run hotel in Puerto Iguazu. In the morning visit the spectacular “Devils Throat”. There are many walkways to explore on both the upper and lower circuits, and plenty of wildlife to see. Late in the afternoon on our last day, we fly to Buenos Aires.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts
DAYS 6 & 7 – BUENOS AIRES
This exciting cosmopolitan City, often known as the ‘Paris of the Americas’ is a mix of colonial architecture and European influences – and a shoppers paradise. Our hotel is steps away from the major shopping area of Recoleta. We’ll take you on a full day insightful walking tour of Buenos Aires visiting the Plaza de Mayo, then on to the colourful Bohemian district of La Boca with it’s many artists and street markets. This evening will feature a spectacular Tango show with dinner. A must while you are in BA!
Enjoy a free day in Buenos Aires. Maybe visit the Recoleta cemetery where Eva Peron is buried, or stroll the alleyways and shops that make up Buenos Aires.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts and Dinner
DAY 8 – SALTA
We take an early morning flight up to Salta and enjoy a walking tour in the afternoon.
Salta is truly one of the most beautiful cities in northern Argentina. However, the itinerary will depend on the very changeable flight schedules. We have the option of going to a local ‘Peña Restuarant’. Loved by locals as much as by visitors they serve up wonderful regional food and have live shows of traditional dancing. This area is also know for its fabulous Torrontes wine and is the northernmost wine region of Argentina. This is also the first ascent to altitude over 2500m.
Meals Included: Breakfast
DAYS 9 & 10 – TILCARA & TRAVEL TO BOLIVIA
We have a free morning in Salta before heading north towards Bolivia and spend the night in Tilcara.
We then continue towards the Bolivian border and spend the next night in Tupiza. We’ll find ourselves off the beaten track, exploring canyons of multi coloured rocks and surreal eroded formations. We need to be a little flexible with the itinerary due to conditions en-route and the border crossing, but you will be well rewarded. Tupiza is a great place to relax before our 4 wheel drive adventure towards the Salar de Uyuni begins. It’s a great place to further acclimatise for the higher altitudes ahead.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts
DAYS 11 & 12 – UYUNI SALT FLATS 4WD SAFARI
Today is an early start to our Bolivian 4WD adventure towards Uyuni and the incredible Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni). We will visit the famous train cemetery, Uyuni Salt Flats and the fascinating Inca Huasi (Fish Island) with the tallest cactus in the world and great views over the Salar. After lunch we will visit the mummies of Conquesa, and head to the village of San Juan.
The following day we head South, visiting the lagoons of Cache, Hedionda, Chiarkhota and Honda. We then continue onto Laguna Colorada, visit the geysers Sol de Mañana, passing by Lagoon Chalviri and head north towards the village of Villamar.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 2 Dinners
Special note. This is a true 4WD adventure across some rugged terrain and high altitude. The itinerary can be subject to change at short notice, due to climatic conditions, and is a guideline only.
DAY 13 – UYUNI TO LA PAZ
Continuing our 4WD safari, we will visit the Valley of the Rocks and the Necropolis of Tomas Lakjas. Arriving in Uyuni for a late flight to La Paz. Once in La Paz, we’ll transfer to our hotel for a well earned good nights rest.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 14 – LA PAZ
Today we enjoy a 1/2 day city tour of La Paz which begins with an excursion to the Moon Valley, located 10 km from downtown of La Paz. These impressive formations, composed mainly of clay, were created by the persistent erosion of mountains by the areas strong winds and rains. Then we will take the cable way and enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of the city. Finally, we will visit the Historic Centre of La Paz where we will visit Witches´ Market (here, we will understand the Andean way of thinking and the mystery), San Francisco Church, Murillo Square, Executive Palace, Legislative Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral and Killi Killi Viewpoint.
Meals Included: Breakfast
DAYS 15 & 16 – PUNO & LAKE TITICACA
Leaving La Paz, we drive via the Bolivian version of Copacabana located on the shore of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake (3860 m above sea level) to Puno. Enjoy spectacular Altiplano scenery along the way, with plenty of photo stops and a chaotic but interesting border crossing. The next day after breakfast we board our boat to explore the lake. Visit the fascinating floating reed islands of the Uros people, where houses, schools, boats and the islands themselves are made of the Tortora Reed. Continuing on to Taquile Island for an insight to this unique communal culture, before returning to Puno for the night.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts
DAYS 17 & 18 – COLCA CANYON AND CONDOR VIEWING
We’ll drive across the Altiplano towards the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world with a staggering total depth of 3270m! Home to the famous Andean Condor. View these birds close up, as they soar above us while on the edge of the canyon. Visit local villages still inhabited by people of the Collagua and Cabana cultures, soak in thermal baths and sample the life, music and spectacular scenery. We continue onto Arequipa.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts
DAY 19 – AREQUIPA
You will wake up in Peru’s most beautiful city Arequipa. Arequipa exhibits delightful colonial past and a lovely spring like climate. Situated under the volcano “El Misti”, stroll around the city enjoying the local museums, churches, the gorgeous Santa Catalina Monastery and sample some of the many superb regional dishes.
Meals Included: Breakfast
DAYS 20 TO 22 – CUSCO INTI RAYMI SUN FESTIVAL, 1/2 DAY CITY TOUR AND COOKING CLASS
Embark on an early morning flight to Cusco, where our adventure begins with an immersive encounter of the vibrant Inti Raymi festival, the annual Celebration of the Sun. A captivating half-day tour unveils the secrets of this ancient city, once hailed as the “Navel of the World,” and includes a visit to the remarkable Inca site of Sacsayhuaman. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely day to freely explore the city and immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere. Take delight in browsing through the myriad of craft shops, savor a cup of coffee while admiring the bustling plaza, or unwind in the tranquil courtyard of your colonial-style hotel. The day is yours to relish at your own pace.
In the late afternoon, engage in a fascinating Peruvian cooking class that offers an awe-inspiring view of Cusco. Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Peru as you learn the secrets of preparing delicious local dishes. Tonight, dinner will be the delightful culmination of your culinary experience.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts and 1 Dinner
DAYS 23 & 24 – CUSCO AND THE SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS
Starting our journey from Cusco, we set out on an adventure towards the captivating Urubamba Valley, famously known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Along this scenic route, we have the privilege of visiting a neighboring village, the impressive Pisac Inca site, a village celebrated for its skilled weavers, or a bustling local market, depending on the itinerary. Our primary goal is to make the most of our time, ensuring that we thoroughly explore the area and its magnificent Inca ruins. We dedicate ample time to immerse ourselves in the awe-inspiring Pisac Inca site, appreciate the vibrant atmosphere of the Pisac market, and marvel at the remarkable Ollantaytambo.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts
DAY 25 – MACHU PICCHU AND CUSCO
One of the most memorable experiences of the journey is enjoying a picturesque train journey that winds through breathtaking mountain landscapes, leading us to Aguas Calientes. From there, we transfer by coach to reach the legendary “Lost City of the Incas” – Machu Picchu. This remarkable archaeological site, which was rediscovered by archaeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911, holds immense beauty and mystery, making it one of the world’s most captivating ancient destinations. Following our guided tour of Machu Picchu, we make our way back to Cuzco, arriving late in the evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Special note: Due to new visiting rules we try to take the afternoon option of 12.30 to 17.30. This means a long but rewarding day, with a late arrival back to Cusco. Visiting time subject to change.
DAYS 26 to 28 – AMAZON RAINFOREST LODGE
After a brief flight, we reach the humid town of Puerto Maldonado in the Amazon. Upon arrival, we are greeted and escorted to our lodge. Initially, we embark on a boat journey from Tambopata Port to the lodge. At the Amazon lodge, you will be captivated by a range of activities including nature walks, canoeing, learning about medicinal plants and their uses, watching wildlife videos, and attending lectures. We have the opportunity to observe various species such as spiders, capuchin and howler monkeys, macaws, sloths, giant river otters that reside in the lake, hummingbirds, caimans, and a diverse array of insects. The lodge’s exceptional location is undoubtedly a highlight of your trip.
Meals Included: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches and 3 Dinners
DAYS 29 & 30 – LIMA
We retrace our river and road journey back to Puerto Maldonado. A short flight takes us to Lima via Cusco. We will take you on a short orientation walk in the neighbourhood of Miraflores, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We explore the historic centre of Lima and see the contrasts as we head out to the hillside Shantytowns and community project that we help support. Our South America Tour celebratory dinner will feature regional Peruvian specialties.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts and 1 Dinner
DAY 31 – DEPARTURE DAY OR CONTINUE TO THE GALAPAGOS
Today is departure day.
Meals Included: Breakfast
**Ask us about joining on tours to the amazing Galapagos Islands
TESTIMONIALS
HIGHLIGHTS
DATES
Start Date | End Date | Availability | Cost |
---|---|---|---|
5th Jun 2024 | 5th Jul 2024 | AVAILABLE | US$11,930 |