22D18N Ultimate South America
Experience the vibrant cultures and diversity of South America on our 22 day adventure to Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Peru. This trip offers adventure and discovery as well as indulgence, comfort and relaxation. Be immersed in the culture and traditions of these countries, which are rich in natural beauty and history.
Validity: Valid for travel January to December 2024
Tour Duration: 22 Days 18 Nights
Key Features:
- São Paulo Top-notch leisure options - renowned culinary scenes, and lively nightlife.
- Rio De Janeiro stunning landscapes - iconic attractions like Sugarloaf Mountain and Copacabana Beach, and the carefree charm of 'Cariocas'.
- Iguazu Falls - including the breathtaking Devil's Throat.
- Immerse yourself in Tango and football passion - in this vibrant Buenos Aires adventure.
- Explore colonial architecture, museums, and world-class dining in one of Latin America's dynamic cities - Santiago
- Bustling gateway to Peru's culture, blending pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern elements - Lima
- Learn about rich history and monuments in Cusco
- Visit one of the seven wonders of the world - Machu Picchu
- Experience indigenous culture and stunning landscapes on the shores of Lake Titicaca - Puno
Itinerary at a Glance:
Location: | Hotels: | Room Type: |
Sao Paulo | Laghetto Stilo (5 Stars) | Standard Room |
Rio de janeiro | Novotel Leme (4 Stars) | Superior Room |
Iguazu falls | Vivaz Caratatas Resort (4 Stars) | Deluxe Room |
Buenos Aires | Nh Florida Buenos Aires (4 Stars) | Standard Room |
Santiago De Chile | Ola Santiago Providencia (4 Stars) | Standard Room |
Lima | Pullman Lima Miraflores (5 Stars) | Superior Room |
Cusco | Novotel (4 Stars) | Standard Room |
Puno | Jose Antonio (4 Stars) | Standard Room |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo Airport arrival. Meet your local guide and be transferred to your hotel.
Day 2: Sao Paulo – Rio De Janeiro
After breakfast, we'll explore Sao Paulo's main attractions. Our itinerary starts at Luz Station, the city's oldest train station, followed by Italy Terrace, Municipal Theatre, Chá Viaduct, Banespa Building, Schoolyard, and Sé Cathedral. We'll venture inside the cathedral before heading to Libertade neighborhood and the financial center of Sao Paulo. Along Paulista Avenue, we'll see modern landmarks like the MASP (Art Museum of São Paulo). Our tour concludes at Ibirapuera Park and its museum by Oscar Niemeyer. After lunch, we'll head directly to the airport for our flight to Rio de Janeiro. Upon arrival, we'll be transferred to our hotel in the Copacabana area.
Activities & Services:
- Luz Station oldest train station
- The Cathedral
- Libertade neighbourhood
- MASP (Art Museum of São Paulo)
- Ibirapuera Park
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Rio De Janeiro
After breakfast, depart from the hotel for a private tour of Rio de Janeiro's landmarks. Drive along Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon to Corcovado Hill. Board a train for a scenic ride up the mountain to the Christ the Redeemer statue. At the top, guests can use panoramic elevators or escalators to approach the statue.
Enjoy a traditional "churrasco" barbecue lunch before returning to your hotel. Rest until dinner, which includes a local Brazilian dance show.
Activities & Services:
- Rio de Janeiro's landmarks
- Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
- Corcovado Hill
- Christ the Redeemer statue
- Local brazilian dance show (add to 16D)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Rio De Janeiro – Iguazu Falls
After breakfast, we'll visit another Rio icon: the Sugar Loaf.
Situated on a small peninsula at Guanabara Bay's entrance, it resembles a sugar loaf. Glass cable cars provide a scenic ride to the top.
The first cable car ascends to Urca Hill. From there, a second cable car takes you to the summit, providing a 360-degree view of Rio, including Botafogo and Copacabana Beaches, Corcovado Mountain, and downtown.
After lunch, we'll head to the airport for our flight to Foz de Iguaçu. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to the hotel.
Activities & Services:
- Glass cable cars to Urca Hill and Sugar Loaf
- Hotel Transfer
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Iguazu Falls
After breakfast, visit the Brazilian side National Park. Descend to the canyon for panoramic views of over 240 falls. Take a glass elevator to a platform for more views. The Iguassu National Park, along with its counterpart in Argentina, forms a significant rainforest area in South America, declared a UNESCO National Heritage Site. Lunch enjoyed in the park.
Enjoy leisure time in the afternoon until dinner, included at your hotel.
Activities & Services:
- Brazilian side National Park
- Glass elevator to a platform
- The Iguassu National Park
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Buenos Aires – Iguazu Falls
Upon arrival, your local guide will welcome you and guide you to the Argentinean side of the National Park. The Iguazú National Park, located 11 miles from Puerto Iguazú, is part of the Paraná Jungle eco-region. It hosts the Iguazú Waterfalls: 275 cascades reaching nearly 260 feet in altitude. Experience the Upper Circuit for a panoramic view of the falls on the Argentinean side, including the Devil's Throat.
Lunch provided in the park then continue to Puerto Iguazu airport to fly to Buenos Aires. Airport arrival in Buenos Aires and transfer to your hotel.
Activities & Services:
- Argentinean side of the National Park
- Iguazú National Park
- Upper Circuit
- Devil's Throat
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 7: Buenos Aires
Explore the North area of Buenos Aires: Tigre & Delta. Travel 30km north to the City of Tigre, passing through parks and landmarks. First stop is at Puerto de Frutos, a local market by the Lujan River.
Next, Panoramic Catamaran at Tigre's small port to explore the Paraná Delta. This serene journey offers insights into island life, flora, fauna, and water sports. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant. In the evening, indulge in a traditional tango show.
Activities & Services:
- City of Tigre
- Puerto de Frutos – local market by the river
- Panoramic Catamaran
- Traditional tango show
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 8: Buenos Aires – Santiago De Chile
One of Latin America's most captivating cities. Begin at Plaza de Mayo, explore its iconic landmarks like the Cathedral, resting place of José de San Martin.
Discover Palermo, Retiro, and Recoleta, understanding why Buenos Aires is dubbed the “Paris of South America”. Explore Plaza San Martín, Alvear Avenue, Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, and Recoleta Cemetery, home to Eva Peron’s grave. Head south to La Boca, a vibrant neighbourhood reflecting Italian immigrant heritage. Visit the famous Caminito Street.
Enjoy lunch at a traditional bodegon before heading to the airport for your flight to Santiago de Chile. Upon arrival, meet your local guide at Santiago Airport and transfer to your hotel.
Activities & Services:
- Plaza de Mayo
- The Cathedral
- Caminito Street
- Traditional bodegon
- Hotel transfer
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 9: Santiago De Chile
The tour starts with a visit to the historic city centre, focusing on the central plaza (Plaza de Armas). This area includes significant landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Palacio de la Moneda, symbolising key moments in the city's history.
Exploring further, we'll wander through the civic district and old affluent neighbourhoods, showcasing a blend of architectural styles influenced by European immigrants. Afterwards, enjoy a panoramic view from one of the city's hills before heading to the western area, characterised by modern and innovative architectural marvels.
Activities & Services:
- Plaza de Armas
- Metropolitan Cathedral
- Palacio de la Moneda
- Panoramic view from one of the city's hills
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 10: Viña Del Mar & Valparaiso – Santiago
Leave Santiago and explore two important cities: Valparaiso & Viña del Mar. Valparaíso, Chile's main port, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique architecture and labyrinthine streets that climb up the hills.
Viña del Mar, the country's most popular seaside resort. These cities, located just 120 km from Santiago, offer a striking contrast beside the Pacific Ocean.
Activities & Services:
- Valparaiso
- Viña del Mar
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 11: Santiago De Chile – Lima
Depart from your hotel for a half-day trip to Maipo Valley. We'll visit Odfjell Winery and explore the gravity-driven winery, designed for premium wine production. The tour includes visits to fermentation and barrel rooms. Conclude with an award-winning wine tasting overlooking the vineyards.
After a picnic lunch, head to the airport for your flight to Lima, Peru. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel.
Activities & Services:
- Maipo Valley
- Odfjell Winery
- Picnic lunch
- Hotel Transfer
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 12: Lima
Our exploration of Colonial Lima starts at the Main Square. Walk and view the Government Palace, the Cathedral, and City Hall. Inside the Cathedral, discover various chapels showcasing different architectural styles and learn about Peru's religious history. Visit the 17th-century San Francisco Convent, including its ancient underground cemetery, the "Catacombs."
Finally, we'll head to modern district of Miraflores to enjoy a lunch at local restaurant. Our day includes the visit of Magical Water Tour and dinner.
Activities & Services:
- Main Square
- The Cathedral
- San Francisco Convent
- Magical Water Tour
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 13: Lima – Cusco
Your guide will pick you up for transfer to Lima Airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival at Cusco airport, meet your local guide.
Start at Plaza de Armas, originally the main square of the Incas called Huacaypata, now featuring colonial charm with Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Company of Jesus. Next, visit Qoricancha, the Sun god temple with legendary gold-lined walls.
Dinner at a local restaurant with live show.
Activities & Services:
- Guided tour at Lima
- Plaza de Armas
- Qoricancha
- Live show dinner
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 14: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Explore the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu with lunch included. From your hotel, head to the train station. Enjoy a comfortable train ride to Aguas Calientes with scenic views. Upon arrival, take a bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu (one of the world's wonders). Follow our local guide on a tour of the citadel.
Finally, return to Aguas Calientes to make your way back to Cusco.
Activities & Services:
- Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
- Train ride to Aguas Calientes
- Guided tour
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 15: Cusco – Puno
At the scheduled time departure from Cusco to Puno City. Visit tourist attractions that are located along the route such as Tipon, Oropesa, Pikillaqta, Andahuaylillas & Raqchi.
Drop off at your hotel in Puno for dinner.
Activities & Services:
- Tourist attractions
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 16: Puno – Amantani Island
On this 2-day, 1-night Lake Titicaca experience, visit the most beautiful islands.
First, stop at Uros Island en route, then spend the night on Amantani Island before returning the next day to Taquile Island. Explore the island's pre-Inca vestiges and ancient ruins during your visit.
Activities & Services:
- Lake Titicaca experience
- Uros Island en route
- Amantani Island
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 17: Amantani Island – Taquile Island – Puno
Depart early to explore Taquile Island, divided into six community plots. Taquile inhabitants proudly claim to be the official heirs of the Incas in weaving, supplying clothing to the Inca courts in ancient times.
Activities & Services:
- Taquile Island
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 18: Puno – Llachon – Puno
On the Peninsula of Capachica, the village of Llachón offers a pleasant temperature year round on a tranquil corner of Lake Titicaca.
Learn about recipes in a traditional family kitchen and enjoy a typical lunch with the most beautiful views of Lake Titicaca.
Activities & Services:
- Learn about traditional recipes
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 19: Departure
Transfer to the airport for departure home.
Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Please note: This itinerary is designed to give you an idea of what to expect on the tour but is not set in stone. What we actually do on a given day is flexible and can be tailored based on the interests of the group.
TOUR PRICE INCLUDES:
- Accommodation, meals and private transfers/ activities with bilingual professional guide service (English). Air -conditioning transportation.
- National Park tickets, museums or Natural reserves entrances unless mentioned otherwise in the itinerary.
- All taxes and reservation expenses, according to inclusions and exclusions of each country. The only document to validate exemptions is a valid passport.
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu on bus tickets.
- Expedition train to/from Machu Picchu.
- Transfers are calculated based on one piece of 23kg luggage per person. In case of excess, a luggage truck at an additional cost may be required. Different vehicle types can be used in different countries.
TOUR PRICE EXCLUDES:
- International and Domestic airfare or airport taxes.
- Room tax in Brazil: USD 2 to 7 per room per night depending on the city and hotel category. This is not mandatory to pay.
- Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Gratuities, tips for guides, drivers, porters, waiters, etc.
- Expenses of personal nature (laundry, beverages, telephone calls, etc.).
- Early check-in and late check-out (check-in is generally at 3pm- check -out at 11am
This itinerary and its package inclusions might be changed later in time, subject to availability.
AIRFARE TERMS
- All Airfare reservations are arranged subject to the conditions imposed by the respective airline
- 100% of the confirmed total booking value of all airline reservations is payable on the date of confirmation.
- Airline Reservations are 100% non-refundable
TRIPLE SHARING POLICY:
- NO REDUCTION FOR TRIPLE SHARE ADULTS in South African Hotels.
- Please check on the triple sharing policy for the individual hotels upon request.
- Note that single supplement is payable for stay in hotels that are unable to accommodate 3rd adult.
CHILD POLICY:
- A maximum of 2 children under 12 years of age is allowed to share with a maximum of 2 full paying adults. A maximum of 2 children per family group is allowed at discounted rates.
- A child of 12 years and older will be charged the full applicable adult per person rate. If a child shares with only 1 adult, the child will pay the full applicable adult sharing rate.
- Certain accommodation establishments refuse permission to children less than 12 years of age, e.g., certain private game lodges. Supplier child conditions will apply in these cases.
- Certain accommodation establishments only accept children in family units. These units are often in limited supply and subject to availability. Acceptance of any child on discounted conditions is therefore subject to availability and confirmation of such units.