Destination Country: Brazil Argentina Bolivia Peru

Regions/Cities include: Rio de Janeiro Iguazu Buenos Aires Salta Tilcara Tupiza Laguna Colorada Laguna Verde La Paz Puno Lake Titicaca Colca Canyon Arequipa Cusco Sacred Valley Machu Picchu Amazon Rainforest Lima

South America Sojourn

If you only ever visit South America once, this trip will give you an insight to the variety of fascinating cultures and scenic highlights; Rio, the Amazon, Machu Picchu and the amazing Colca Canyon and condors. Plus an "off the beaten track" itinerary covering northern Argentina, the Atacama desert and the shimmering salt lakes of Bolivia. A fabulous tour that can be combined with the Galapagos Islands

Day 1: Arrival in Rio and transfer to hotel

Arrive in stunning Rio de Janeiro, where you are met and transferred in to your hotel for the next 3 nights.

Day 2: Rio – Samba show 

This morning you’ll meet with your tour leader and the other passengers, for a briefing on the journey ahead. Today is about relaxing and getting over jet lag, so take a walk to Ipanema or maybe have a swim at Copacabana Beach and sunbathe, 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”. B,D- Welcome dinner Brazilian style!

Day 3: Rio – City tour

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. B

Days 4 & 5: Iguazu Falls

Transfer to the airport for our flight to the most beautiful and spectacular waterfalls in the world –Iguazu Falls. There are 275 falls along 2.7 kilometers of the Iguazu River. Enjoy a half day tour on arrival of the Brazilian side of the falls. The next morning we cross into Argentina and visit the spectacular “Devils Throat” with over 1.5km of boardwalk right over the river. There are many walkways to explore on both the upper and lower circuits, and plenty of wildlife to see. Later in the afternoon of day 5 we fly to Buenos Aires. B

Days 6 : 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 shopper’s paradise. Our hotel is steps away from the major shopping area of Recoleta.  We'll take you on an insightful walking tour of Buenos Aires visiting the Plaza de Mayo and Congress. We’ll also head to the colorful Bohemian district of La Boca with its many artists and street markets. This evening will feature a fabulous Tango show with dinner and wine.2B, 1D

Days 7 & 8: Northern Argentina – Salta & Tilcara – altitude 1200m to 2500m

You’ll enjoy a free morning in Buenos Aires. Maybe visit the Recoleta cemetery where Eva Peron is buried, to stroll the labyrinth of alleyways. We catch a late afternoon flight to Salta.  Salta is truly one of the most beautiful cities in northern Argentina. However, the itinerary will depend on the very changeable flight schedules. This area is also known for its fabulous Torrontes wine and is the northernmost wine region of Argentina. This is also the first ascent to altitude over 2500m. We’ll have a free morning on day 7 in Salta before heading north towards Bolivia and spend the night in Tilcara. B

Days 9 & 10: Travel to Bolivia

Today we continue towards the Bolivian border and spend the next 2 nights in Tupiza. We’ll find ourselves off the beaten track, exploring canyons of multi colored 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 for a couple of days before our 4 wheel drive adventure towards the Salar de Uyuni begins. It is a great place to further acclimatize for higher altitudes ahead.

Days 11 & 12: Uyuni Salta Flats and coloured lagoons, volcanos , altitudes of 3000masl and above

Today is a very early start to our Bolivian 4 - wheel drive 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. Enjoy lunch in the middle of the salt flats then continue to Tunupa volcano and short optional walk to the viewpoint. For sunset, a delicious appetizer then drive back to our hotel. B, L, D

Special note! This is a true 4- wheel drive adventure across, at times, rugged terrain and in high altitude. The itinerary can be subject to change at short notice, due to climatic conditions.

Days 13 & 14: Geysers, Uyuni , late flight to La Paz, altitudes of 3000masl and above

Day 13: An early start to see the Geyser " Sol de la Mañana" and the thermal baths with a chance for a hot bath (optional). We'll visit the Green Lagoon "Laguna Verde" then lunch on the way and drive back to Uyuni. Arrival back to Uyuni for a little free time then transfer to the airport for our late flight to La Paz. Once in La Paz, we'll transfer to our hotel for a well earner good night’s rest. B, L

Day 14: 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. They are impressive formations, composed mainly of clay and were created by the persistent erosion of mountains by the area’s 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 Center of La Paz where we will visit Witches´ Market which will give us a little insight into some Andean beliefs and superstitions. B

Days 15 & 16: Travel to Puno – altitude 3900m

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. Visiting 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 to experience this unique community. Make sure you take with you some small change as there are craft co-operatives on Taquile Island which sell fine hand knitted bags, hats and garments. All purchases help the entire community, not just one family. After a lunch of local lake fish, we head back to Puno by boat and arrive in the late afternoon to relax and explore this mostly Aymara town. B

Days 17 & 18: Colca Canyon condor viewing, Arequipa, altitude 3500m to 4900m over the pass

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 to Arequipa on day 18. B

Days 19 :  Arequipa, enjoy a free day – altitude 2300m

Arguably Peru’s most beautiful city, Arequipa exhibits a delightful colonial past. Situated under the volcano "El Misti", stroll around the city enjoying the spring like climate. There’s plenty to do, such visiting the Juanita Museum, churches, the gorgeous Santa Catalina Monastery and sample some of the many superb regional dishes. B

Days 20 & 21: Arequipa to the Sacred Valley of the Incas – altitude 2800m to 3300m

Today we fly from Arequipa to Cusco, where we head out to the beautiful Urubamba Valley (Sacred alley of the Inca’s), visiting a weaver’s village or local market on the way, depending on flight times. The following is an exciting mix of local culture and your first experience of an ancient Inca site. Pisac Inca site and vibrant Pisac market, along with Ollantaytambo are all in the Sacred Valley, so we'll try and maximise time so as to best explore the area and Inca ruins. B

Day 22 Machu Picchu and Cuzco – altitude 2400m to 3300m

A highlight of the trip is taking a scenic train ride through spectacular mountain vistas to Aguas Calientes - then transfer by coach to Machu Picchu – the “Lost City of the Incas”. Machu Picchu, rediscovered by archaeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911, is one of the most beautiful and enigmatic ancient sites in the world. After our guided tour of Machu Picchu, we return to Cuzco late in the evening. B

Due to new visiting rules, we will take the afternoon option of 12.30 to 17.30. This means a long but rewarding day and a late arrival back to Cusco.

Days 23 & 24 Cuzco ½ day city tour & cooking class

Cuzco reveals to us the ancient city that was known by the Incas as the “Navel of the World”. Cuzco is an exquisite mix of Incan and Spanish colonial influences. Plenty of time to explore Cuzco and enjoy the special atmosphere. Browse in the many craft shops, we visit Sacsayhuaman on a half day city tour, and we include a unique afternoon cooking class overlooking the city. The rest of the time is yours to enjoy. A highlight dinner will feature regional Andean cuisine. Meals included: 2B, 1D

Days 25 to 27: Amazon Rainforest Lodge – altitude 200m to sea level for remainder of the trip

AMAZON EXCURSION - After a short flight from Cuzco, we arrive in the steamy Amazon town of Puerto Maldonado, where we will be met and transferred to the office for the jungle lodge. Then it’s onto the boats for a few hours ride to our lodge. Expect a 3km walk through the rainforest to the lodge, though the exact lodge used may vary and will be confirmed closer to the date of travel. All our Amazon lodges offer wildlife viewing: Nature walks, canoeing, medicinal plants and their uses, wildlife videos and lectures will have you enthralled. We have the chance to see spider, capuchin and howler monkeys, macaws, sloths, giant river otters which are resident in the lake, hummingbirds, caimans and a vast variety of insects. This is a serene and relaxing environment, the wildlife can be hard to spot as they are illusive, so please don’t expect an “African safari” type of experience.  3B, 3L, 3D

Days 28 & 29: Lima

We retrace our river and road journey back to Puerto Maldonado. A short flight takes us to Lima via Cusco. Whilst there you will enjoy our fascinating city tour which takes you to the central square Plaza Mayor and San Francisco church with the eerie catacombs which hold the remains of all the monks who lived there. You’ll get to know the city and discover the contrasts of its huge urban area. Your tour leader will take you on an afternoon walk through the neighbourhoods of Miraflores and Barranco, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. There is a coastal promenade which gives you great views and a chance to see the paragliders flying high above the cliffs. Our final dinner will feature regional Peruvian specialties. 2B,1D

A Bonus of being on our August tour, is you will get the opportunity to visit La Mistura, which is the largest food fairs in Latin America. Here you will get to sample cuisines from around the world and from throughout South America.

Day 30: Departure day – Adios

Depart any time today. B

** Ask about joining our Galapagos tour for a relaxing and unique way to end your South America holiday.

 

Price Includes

Spectacular Samba show in Rio

Corcovado and Sugar Loaf tours in Rio de Janeiro

Brazilian and Argentine Falls tour

Buenos Aires city tour, Argentine Experience and Tango show

4WD excursion in Bolivia through the Uyuni salt lakes

Colca Canyon excursion & entry to hot springs

Lake Titicaca full day guided tour

Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu guided tour

Cuzco cooking class and city tour

Eco Lodge Amazon Excursion (3 nights)

Half day Lima city tour

Bilingual tour leader throughout and specialized local guides for excursions

All flights and transport within South America, transport & accommodation

Tips pool of USD120 per person for local guides & drivers

The cost of entry fees for all scheduled tours.

Meals as listed

 

Price Does Not Include

All items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks, souvenirs etc.

International flights and internal flight departure taxes. 

Travel insurance, this is compulsory in order for you to take part.

Visas (none required for New Zealand citizens, Australians require a visa for Brazil)

Tips for tour leader

 

Price

USD 8480.00 per person

USD 985.00 single supplement

Includes a local payment of USD500, which is paid to your tour leader on day one.

Includes internal airfares of USD1475**, which are subject to change.

** We use LAN air passes, within South America, in conjunction with LAN international flights. If you’re arriving on another airline, an airfare supplement may apply for your internal sectors.