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Compare Lima to Rio: Coast to Coast by G Adventures vs Grand South America by Indus Travels

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Duration 51 days 20 days
Price From $ 6,399 $ 5,099
Price Per Day $ 125 $ 255
Highlights
  • Go sandboarding at sunset in huacachina
  • Spot condors at colca canyon
  • Conquer the inca trail on the way to machu picchu
  • Experience traditional life on lake titicaca
  • Cross the salar de uyuni and surrounding desert altiplano
  • Spend the night at a g adventures-supported community salt lodge
  • Explore beautiful buenos aires with a free day
  • Chill out at the beaches of ilha grande
  • Marvel at iguassu falls
  • Discover colorful, vibrant coastal city of Cartagena
  • Get an experiential immersion in the world of Colombian Coffee
  • Explore the Sacred Valley and magnificent Cusco
  • See the world-famous Inca ruins at Machu Picchu
  • Visit the unique man made Uros islands on Lake Titicaca
  • Tour the lively and historic city of Buenos Aires
  • Marvel at the majestic Iguaçu waterfall
Trip Style Small group tour Small group tour
Lodging Level Basic Standard
Physical Level
  • 4- Strenuous
  • 3- Moderate
Travel Themes
  • Cultural
  • High Adventure
  • Trekking & Expeditions
N/A
Countries Visited
Cities and Attractions
  • Arequipa
  • Atacama Desert
  • Buenos Aires
  • Colon
  • Cusco
  • Ilha Grande
  • Inca Trail
  • La Paz
  • Lake Titicaca
  • Lima
  • Machu Picchu
  • Montevideo
  • Nazca
  • Ollantaytambo
  • Paraty
  • Puno
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Sacred Valley
  • Sao Paulo
  • Sucre
  • Urubamba
  • Uyuni
  • Bogota
  • Buenos Aires
  • Cartagena
  • Cusco
  • Lima
  • Puno
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Sacred Valley
Flights & Transport Ground transport included Airfare included
Activities
  • Adventure & Adrenaline
  • Culture
  • Hiking
  • History
N/A
Meals Included 38 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners N/A
Description

If you have the time and can’t decide between Peru and Brazil, then see them both – and pretty much everything in between – on this 51-day extravaganza. Trek the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, cross the Bolivian Salt Flats, sip wine in Argentina, and hit the beach in Brazil. You’ll get plenty of energetic culture, the great outdoors, and the company of other young travellers to keep you moving. There’s time later to slow down, take the long road and have an adventure while you can.

Immerse in four South American countries: Colombia, Peru, Argentina & Brazil. South America's incredibly varied landscapes and cultures blend themselves perfectly in this tour
Itinerary: Lima to Rio: Coast to Coast

Day 1 Lima

Arrive at any time. Get to know your group tonight as you head out to one of the many bars and restaurants in the bohemian neighbourhood of Barranco. Enjoy a local craft beer with your fellow travellers as you get excited for the adventure to come.

Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities, so check into the hotel and enjoy the city.

If you booked the Lima Cooking Class it does not include extra time in Lima and we highly recommend booking pre-trip accommodation. You will be picked up from your hotel at approx 10:00 and taken to a local market and restaurant to prepare and enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal. You will return back to your hotel around 13:00. Please note: hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Latin America (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.

Day 2 Lima/Huacachina

Travel along Peru's breathtaking coast to the oasis of Huacachina where you can sandboard on the desert dunes while watching the sun go down.

Day 3 Huacachina/Nazca

Wake up and make the most of your time in Huacachina before your adventure continues on to Nazca. There is time in the morning for an optional excursion to the Ballestas Islands, home to a lively colony of sea lions, pelicans, and other varieties of birds. Later, catch a bus to Nazca. Stop along the way at a Pisco winery and try the country's national drink!

Day 4 Nazca/Arequipa

Choose to soar over the iconic Nazca Lines today with a pre-bookable flight, or take a tour of the Nazca Desert Cemetery and Potter's Studio. Tonight, catch some z's on an overnight bus to Arequipa.

Day 5 Arequipa

Welcome to Arequipa! Take the day to explore what is known as the 'white city.' If you're into history and architecture, visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, where you'll get a unique glimpse into a bygone way of life. For spicy food lovers, visiting one of the 'picanterías' is a must. Satisfy your craving with a variety of local regional foods: alpaca, shrimp, pork, lots of soups, and spicy sauces.

Day 6 Arequipa/Colca Canyon

Enjoy a full-day tour of the spectacular Colca Valley and venture to the impressive Colca Canyon — one of the deepest canyons in the world — on an overnight excursion. With a little luck, you'll spot some unusual Andean animals such as vicuñas, and alpacas. Give your body some much needed relaxation by taking an optional dip in the the hot springs.

Day 7 Colca Canyon/Arequipa

Get an early start to be on the look out for condors. Travel from Chivay town to a condor viewpoint to get a glimpse of these magnificent birds in the air. On the way back, stop in local villages, and see old terraces. Later, head out for a drink in the Calle Zela area – restaurant, bar, or club, there's something for everyone!

Day 8 Arequipa/Cusco

Explore Arequipa – take a city tour if you want or check out a monastery or museum. Later, sit back and relax on an overnight bus to Cusco.

Day 9 Cusco

Explore the city on your own today or choose from a variety of activities that will help you discover the magic of Cusco. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and plazas or choose to take a half-day tour of the city. Or, pre-book the Cusco cooking class if you want to learn to prepare delicious local specialties!

Please note: if you pre-book the Cusco Cooking Class you will be picked up from your hotel at approx 12:30 and taken to a local market and restaurant to prepare and enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal. Return back to your hotel around 16:00.

Day 10 Cusco

Today is another free day to explore all that Cusco has to offer. Feeling active? Take on the Rainbow Mountain trek or go mountain biking. Prefer to stay local? Take it easy with a visit to the Inka Museum and hit up some of the many great cafes, restaurants and bars.

To arrange the hike to the famed Rainbow Mountain, pre-book on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.

Please note: if you pre-book the Cusco Cooking Class you will be picked up from your hotel at approx 12:30 and taken to a local market and restaurant to prepare and enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal. Return back to your hotel around 16:00.

Day 11 Cusco/Ollantaytambo

Head into the Sacred Valley today to visit the G-Adventures supported women's weaving co-op in the Ccaccaccollo community. Learn about weaving, and meet the adorable resident llamas. If you see a knitted item you like, buy it — a perfect keepsake from your journey. Stop and sample some craft beer at a brewery on your way to Ollantaytambo.

Day 12 Inca Trail

Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where your trek begins. Hike through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons. You'll see several smaller ruin sites like Llactapata.

A crew of local porters, cooks, and guides will take care of all the details for the duration of the hike. Porters carry the majority of the gear so you’ll only need to carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc.

Day 13 Inca Trail

Get an early start today to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, known as Dead Woman's Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with some much needed R&R.

Day 14 Inca Trail

Cross two more passes and ruins along the way. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, you can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through cloud forest on the gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley. At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins (""forever young"") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft).

Day 15 Machu Picchu/Cusco

The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Wake up around 03:30 and walk to the checkpoint. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the site. Catch the bus to Aguas Calientes before your train back to Cusco in the afternoon. Tonight, dance the night away at a popular night club.

Day 16 Cusco

Today is another free day to get the most out of Cusco and to do anything you may not have done yet. Continue to explore and be active or relax and watch the world go by from one of they many bars and restaurants on the main plaza.

Day 17 Cusco/Puno

Sit back, relax, and soak in the impressive views as you travel by bus through the Altiplano on your way to Puno on Lake Titicaca.

Day 18 Puno/Lake Titicaca

This morning, you will board a boat on Lake Titicaca and head to Taquile Island. Opt to have lunch in a local restaurant and shop in the afternoon at the local weaving cooperatives. Later, cruise to another village for an overnight homestay to live like a local on the shores of the lake. Learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and create unforgettable memories with the family and fellow travellers.

Day 19 Lake Titicaca/Puno

Say goodbye to your homestay family and stop at the Uros Islands on your way back to Puno. If you want, you can check out the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site. Or kayak on Lake Titicaca.

Day 20 Puno/La Paz

Today, enjoy a full-day drive around the picturesque lake and through the Altiplano to La Paz. Cross over into Bolivia and catch your breath before a night out in the highest city of the trip. Check out the area of Sopocachi for cool bohemian vibes.

Day 21 La Paz

If you didn't have time yesterday to do everything you wanted in La Paz — no worries! Today is another day to explore the city as you wish. If you're an adrenaline junkie, make sure to experience the Death Road Biking Adventure.

Opt to pre-book the "Death Road Biking Adventure" activity on the checkout page ahead of time to include this optional on your tour.

Day 22 La Paz/Sucre

Get to know La Paz with a free day to wander through the city's winding streets and vibrant markets before boarding a night bus to Sucre.

Day 23 Sucre

Discover the beauty of Sucre, known as Bolivia's "White City" at your own pace with a free day to explore. Set in a valley surrounded by mountains, you can choose to go hiking or mountain biking to admire this city from a different point of view.

Day 24 Sucre

One day in Sucre isn't enough, so take another free day to explore! Try optional activities such as hiking, mountain biking, a visit to the Textile Cooperative, or get up close and personal with real dinosaur tracks.

Day 25 Sucre/Potosí

Venture south to Potosí, the highest city of its size in the world.

Staying in the Bolivian highlands, we travel south to the city of Potosí. The highest city of its size in the world, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has had a tumultuous history as a silver mining centre during colonial times.

Day 26 Potosí

Get out and explore Potosí on a free day. Choose to take an excursion to the silver mine, visit the Casa de la Moneda or wander the streets and visit the local market.

Day 27 Potosí/Uyuni

It's off to Uyuni today. Breathe in the beautiful scenery while relaxing in a private vehicle. Take it easy today because your next adventure is right around the corner!

Day 28 Uyuni/Salt Flats and Desert Crossing

Embark on a three-day 4x4 excursion to the Salar de Uyuni. Get your camera ready because the endless white of the salt flats creates the perfect backdrop for mindbending photo ops. Settle in to your G Adventures-supported community salt-brick bungalow — complete with salt floors and salt furniture, and enjoy a delicious dinner prepared with local ingredients.

Note: During the rainy season, the locations visited may change due to some routes being covered by water. We offer unique accommodation on the Salar de Uyuni. Instead of very basic refuges and homestays most operators use, we have upgraded to simple hotels that are equipped with solar panels to provide electricity and hot water. Rooms are multi-share and each has a private bathroom. Meals are made from local ingredients, most of which are grown on-site.

Day 29 Salt Flats and Desert Crossing

Continue crossing the desert today, admiring the scenery while passing red and blue lagoons and intriguing rock formations along the route. Keep an eye out and you might spot wild llamas, alpacas, and even flamingos deep within the desert.

Day 30 Salt Flats and Desert Crossing /San Pedro de Atacama

Get a head start on your day by rising early to cover more ground on your journey through the unique landscape of the Salar de Uyuni. Soak in the views of unimaginable scenery including volcanoes and salt lakes. Travel to the border then kick back and relax on your descent by bus to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.

Day 31 San Pedro de Atacama

Today is full of possibilities. Explore San Pedro de Atacama on a mountain bike, cruise down the dunes on a sandboard, or chill out in the hot springs. Or visit the Valley of the Moon, an area on Earth that resembles the moon's surface. (How cool is that?)

Day 32 San Pedro de Atacama/Salta

Say "Adios!" to Chile because you're heading to Argentina today. Relax on the bus en route to Salta, home to empanadas salteñas—and no visit to the town is complete without trying them! Unwind at the hotel or liven it up with a visit to a Peña Folklore show to dance the night away and sip delicious Argentine red wine.

Day 33 Salta

Tantalize your tastebuds with the local cuisine today as you explore freely. Choose to saddle up and admire the scenery on horseback. Or, if you'd prefer, take a visit to the town of Cafayate to roam vineyards and sample some of the white wine produced at insanely high altitudes.

Day 34 Salta/Buenos Aires

Skip the long bus journey with a quick flight to Buenos Aires. Spend the afternoon exploring the city. Cruise around on a bike with a local or dine on a traditional Argentine meal while experiencing the art of the tango.

Opt to pre-book the "Buenos Aires Tango Experience" on the checkout page ahead of time to include it on your tour.

Day 35 Buenos Aires

Head out and explore the buzzing metropolis of Buenos Aires on a free day. A great city for walking, see the iconic obelisk, wander the pedestrian streets and visit the main Plaza de Mayo with its pink government palace before stopping for a coffee on a patio at one of the many cafes along the way.

Get out and explore. Consider visiting the districts of La Boca, Recoleta, and San Telmo or catch a tango show at one of the many famous tanguerías. Pre book an optional city bike tour, and get a local's eye view of your surroundings! Wander the pedestrian walkways and see some dancing in the streets.

Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.

Day 36 Buenos Aires

Explore the "Paris of the Americas," from the hidden patios of trendy Palermo to bohemian vibes in San Telmo this city has something for everyone. Don’t miss out! Today is your last chance to experience a guided tour of the city and to immerse yourself in the passion of the tango.

Opt to pre-book the "Buenos Aires Bike Tour" or "Buenos Aires Tango Experience" activities on the checkout page ahead of time to include these optionals on your tour.

Day 37 Buenos Aires/Colonia

Hop aboard a ferry and cruise across the Río de la Plata to Colonia, Uruguay. Wander through the colourful streets of this quaint seaside retreat on an orientation walk before free time to explore (and relax!) at your own speed.

In high season, accommodation may be multi-share.

Day 38 Colonia/Montevideo

Your journey continues in the morning as you travel from Colonia to Montevideo. The afternoon is yours for the taking — so explore as you wish! You can wander through the vibrant streets of old town searching for street art or visit an iconic soccer stadium that was host to the first World Cup. Hungry? Bring your appetite to Port Market where you will find an endless bounty of delicious meats. (And fruits and veggies, too.)

Day 39 Montevideo

Wake up ready to take on another day in Montevideo. Hop on a bike and cruise down the Rambla, soaking up sun and gorgeous views from this coastline avenue. Take a day trip to glamorous Punta del Este to admire the upscale neighbourhoods and gardens. Or if you prefer to relax today, kick back and chill in the park like a local.

Day 40 Montevideo/Estancia Stay

Today, let the scenery of picturesque settlements and pastures guide you to Mercedes, your last Uruguayan stop at a local ranch, known in this region as an estancia.

Day 41 Estancia Stay

Live like a local today as you experience life on an Uruguayan ranch. Walk through the serene countryside, learn how to make empanadas, and enjoy the scenery of a nearby river. End your estancia stay in the best way possible — with a local barbecue.

Day 42 Estancia Stay/Iguassu Falls

Cross the border into Gualeguaychu in Argentina today. Unwind, relax and reflect on your travels as you begin your overnight journey to Iguassu Falls.

Day 43 Iguassu Falls

Welcome to Iguassu Falls where your next adventure awaits. Choose to visit the Brazilian side of the falls and experience unforgettable panoramic views. Reach new heights with the option to take a helicopter ride over the falls, or check out a bird park.

Day 44 Iguassu Falls

Enjoy a full day excursion to the breathtaking Argentine side of the falls. Don't forget to take pictures as you wander along paths to experience the falls from each exhilarating vantage point. You can also take a boat tour to see the cascading falls from below.

Day 45 Iguassu Falls/Paraty

Wheels up! Take a quick flight to São Paulo today then head straight to the coast. Take some time to explore the colonial town of Paraty, then hit the beach.

In high season, accommodation in Paraty may be multi-share.

Day 46 Paraty

Do as much or as little as you want today. Go swimming, snorkelling, or explore the islands on a boat tour. Or, simply recharge your batteries by immersing yourself in the laidback vibes of Paraty.

Paraty is a quaint colonial town renowned for its architecture—the pace might be slow but there's a lot to choose from. Considered one of the world's most important examples of Portuguese colonial architecture by UNESCO, the historic centre is a well-preserved national historic monument, and today has been closed to vehicles to preserve its laid-back colonial ambiance.

Opt to pre-book the "Paraty Caipirinha Boat Tour" activity on the checkout page ahead of time to include this optional on your tour.

Day 47 Paraty/Ilha Grande

Continue up the coast today and hop aboard a ferry to where your island paradise awaits.

In high season, accommodation in Ilha Grande may be multi-share.

Day 48 Ilha Grande

The day is yours to explore Ilha Grande. Break a sweat hiking remote trails to experience jaw dropping views, or choose to relax on a boat tour through turquoise waters to some of the island's most beautiful beaches to swim and snorkel.

Day 49 Ilha Grande/Rio de Janeiro

Say goodbye to island life and head north along a dramatic coastal road with sweeping views. Round the cliffs at Vidigal to catch a first glimpse of your next destination and one of the most memorable cities in the world — Rio de Janeiro. Take a city tour to experience the sights of Rio, like the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, or take a stroll along Copacabana beach.

Day 50 Rio de Janeiro

In the morning, explore the favela with a local resident on a G Adventures-supported tour to watch a drumming demonstration, get a Capoeira lesson, and sample craft beers with a new perspective of the city. Enjoy a free afternoon to discover all that Rio has to offer.

Day 51 Rio de Janeiro

Depart at any time.

Itinerary: Grand South America
Day 1: USA/CANADA - CARTAGENA (ARRIVAL)

Make your way to the International Airport to board your flight to Colombia and enjoy in-flight meals and services. Upon arrival you will be met by one of our representatives and transferred to your hotel. Later today you will enjoy a city tour. This fascinating half-day tour starts with the visit of the most important monuments of Cartagena. Start at the Convent of La Popa* (the highest point of the city) and continue to the Castillo de San Felipe, an immense fort filled with history and mysteries hidden in its stonewalled tunnels. Leaving the castle, visit the monument of Zapatos Viejos, the “Old Shoes”. Certainly the most impressive monument is the gigantic defensive wall that surrounds the old city, and overlooks the sea and its well-preserved colonial architecture. During the rest of the visit you will see the city’s churches, museums, plazas, restaurants, shops and jewelry stores. This combination of treasures makes Cartagena deserving of the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site: You will never forget this wonderful destination. Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure

*Note: at this moment La Popa is closed, so, this visit will be replaced by San Pedro Claver Convent.

Overnight in Cartagena

Day 2: CARTAGENA (B)

Enjoy a full at leisure to explore the city at your own pace or to enjoy the day at the beach. Cartagena de Indias was founded in 1533 and is probably the most attractive city in South America today. The old part of the city is also called “the walled city”, where Cartagena conserves the beauty of its' colonial past. Narrow streets flanked by heavy oak doors, gorgeous flowered balconies and the welcoming and friendly people make Cartagena the perfect combination of colonial history and cultural experience. Beautiful beaches close by, such as the Rosario Islands, invite visitors with their crystal clear waters and there ist a large variety of excursions and tours to choose from.

Overnight in Cartagena

Day 3: CARTAGENA ARMENIA (BY FLIGHT) (B)

This morning, at the arranged time, you will be transferred to the airport to take your flight to Armenia via Bogota. Upon arrival in Armenia you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Armenia is the capital of the Departamento Quindío located in the Coffee Triangle 290 kilometers west of Bogotá. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, nature and ancient cultures, the region is a key player in Colombia's rich coffee culture. For anyone interested in nature and culture, Armenia and the Quindío department will be a highlight of their trip.

Overnight in Armenia

Day 4: COFFEE TRIANGLE (B)

Today you will enjoy a full-day tour around the Cocora Valley and Salento. With its breathtaking landscapes, the Cocora Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys in Colombia. Here you will find the impressive Quindian wax palm which reaches an amazing height of 60 metres. It is also the official Colombian national tree and one of the tallest species of palm trees in the world. You will have time to visit Salento, a picturesque village with artisanal shops. Afterwards visit ‘El Ocaso’, a coffee growing farm. The visit includes a technical and practical introduction to the whole coffee cultivation and production process, from harvest to the cup.

Overnight in Armenia

Day 5: ARMENIA BOGOTA (BY FLIGHT) (B)

At the arranged time you will be transferred to the Armenia airport for your flight to Bogotá. Upon arrival to Bogotá you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure for you to explore the city at your own pace. The Colombian capital is located in the very center of the country at approx. 2650 meters above sea level in an area known as the Savanna of Bogotá (Sabana de Bogotá). The east side of the city is flanked by the Cordillera Oriental, which are foothills of the Andes Mountains. In terms of area, Bogotá is Colombia’s largest city: It extends more than 40 km from north to south, and 20km from east to west. It is not only the main economic and industrial center, but also the political heart of the country: The National Legislature, the Supreme Court of Justice and the residence of the President of the Republic (Casa de Nariño) reside here. With its 8 million inhabitants, the city is Colombia’s most populous and the huge cultural offer is among the best and largest in the country - Bogotá is home to numerous museums such as the famous Gold museum or the Botero museum, theatres and libraries.

Overnight in Bogota

Day 6: BOGOTA(B)

Today you will have a closer look into Bogota’s highlights. Start with a guided visit to the City with Botero Museum. This guided visit to the Colombian capital starts in the Plaza de Bolívar (the city’s main square), which is surrounded by federal government buildings, and continues into the old colonial part of the city better known as “La Candelaria”, the San Francisco Church and the Botero Museum. The tour finishes with a trip in a cable car to the top of the Monserrate Hill, which offers a spectacular view of the city. Later today enjoy a visit to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá. Leaving Bogotá to the north, cross the savanna landscape to the town of Zipaquirá, about 50 km away. Upon arrival you will be able to visit the fully functioning Salt Cathedral. This unique building was constructed approximately 120 meters underground in a former salt mine. The trip ends with a visit to Zipaquirá’s charming central square.

Overnight in Bogota

Day 7: BOGOTA CUSCO (BY FLIGHT) SACRED VALLEY (B)

On arrival at Lima International Airport you will connect to your domestic flight to Cusco; a short but spectacular flight over the snow-capped Andes to the oldest inhabited city in the hemisphere, Cusco, at an elevation of 11,440 feet. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel in Urubamba at the Sacred Valley.

Overnight in Urubamba

Day 8: SACRED VALLEY (B)

Today you will enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Enjoy a full day at leisure or take an optional tour.

Overnight in Urubamba

Day 9: SACRED VALLEY MACHU PICCHU CUSCO (B)

This morning you will travel on the Expedition train through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, where you will board a shuttle up to the "Lost City of the Incas", Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, the city of Machu Picchu was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungle for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911.  A knowledgeable tour guide will share the history of this mystical place with you. This afternoon you will take the train back to Ollantaytambo rail station, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Cusco.

Overnight in Cusco

Day 10: CUSCO (B)

After breakfast enjoy a tour of the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere, Cusco, and the nearby ruins. This gives you a chance to see how the Andean and Spanish cultures co-existed and influenced the city. The tour starts at Santo Domingo Convent, built on the site of Koricancha, which was an important ancient Inca palace and center of worship of the Sun God. The tour continues to the Main Square, site of the Cathedral and the La Compañía Church. Later you will visit the imposing Sacsayhuaman Fortress, just one example of the military Inca architecture in the area. Finally, the tour heads to the nearby archaeological sites of Qenko, Puca-Pucara and Tambomachay, which can be found to the north east of the city.

Overnight in Cusco

Day 11: CUSCO PUNO (B/L)

Today one of South America's most extraordinary overland trips takes you by bus from Cusco to Puno, passing through striking highland scenery and picturesque Andean villages. En-route you will stop at the town of Andahuaylillas, the church here was founded in 1580 and is a showcase of the colonial art in Peru, sometimes called "the Sistine Chapel of the Americas” due to its rich interior. You will also stop at Raqchi to see the remains of the remarkable temple of Viracocha, considered by historians to be a particularly important Inca construction, and at La Raya, the highest pass on the route. As well as beautiful views of the surrounding countryside you will see llamas, alpacas and vicunas wandering wild. The last stop before Puno is Pucara, an old ceremonial site that shows evidence of a pre-Inca civilization. You will arrive at your hotel in Puno later this afternoon/evening.  The reminder of the day is at leisure.

Overnight in Puno

Day 12: UROS AND TAQUILE ISLANDS (LAKE TITICACA) (B/L)

Today you can enjoy an amazing boat excursion out onto the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca, to see the floating Uros Islands and Taquile Island. The floating islands of the Uros Indians are made by tying totora reeds together and are a must-see for any traveller. The Uros people consider themselves Lords of the Lake; they hunt wild birds and maintain traditional fishing methods. Taquile is a very important site known for its archaeological remains, sacred and ceremonial sites and festivals. The island is characterized by its friendly inhabitants, who maintain the customs and traditional clothing of their ancestors – there are many fine, woollen hand-made goods on sale here. You will return to Puno later today.

Overnight in Puno

Day 13: PUNO LIMA (BY FLIGHT)(B)

Today you will be transferred to the airport at Juliaca for a flight back to Lima. Upon arrival you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure or perhaps take an optional tour to explore the capital city of Peru. 

Overnight in Lima

Day 14: LIMA - BUENOS AIRES (BY FLIGHT) (B)

Today you will be transferred to Lima International Airport for your flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s delightful capital city.  Upon arrival in Buenos Aires you will be met by our company representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to spend at leisure.

Overnight in Buenos Aires

Day 15: BUENOS AIRES (B)

Today enjoy a guided half-day city tour of Buenos Aires. Beginning with a drive to the Plaza de Mayo, you will see the “Casa Rosada” (the pink house, home of the government), the Cabildo (town hall) and the Metropolitan Cathedral, home of the Archbishop of Buenos Aires. The tour continues to the district of San Telmo, one of the most fashionable and desirable places to live in the city, and the famous La Boca neighborhood. Here colorful tin houses and lively street life provides ample photographic opportunities. Next, the tour heads to Recoleta, the quarter of the rich of Buenos Aires. In Recoleta’s cemetery, you can see the grave of Evita Perón, Argentina’s former First Lady and beloved heroine of the working classes. Finally, the tour takes in Avenida 9 de Julio, the widest avenue in the world, the Federal Court of Justice in Plaza Lavalle, and Teatro Colón, before stopping off at leafy Palermo for a wander in its pretty parks and gardens. Return to the hotel.

Overnight in Buenos Aires

Day 16: BUENOS AIRES IGUAU (BY FLIGHT) (B)

This morning you will be transferred to the domestic airport for your flight to Iguazu. Upon arrival in Iguazu you will be met and transferred to the Argentinean Iguassu National Park to Iguassu Falls on the Argentinean side. You will make a short stop at the Visitor’s Centre and from there proceed along the Inferior Circuit, the down-river falls, to the Superior Circuit, the up-river cascades. The Ecological Jungle Train leads you to the most impressive observation point of the falls – The Devil´s Throat.  After your visit you will be transferred to the hotel on the Brazilian side of the falls to check in.

Overnight at Iguassu on the Brazilian side

Day 17: IGUAU (B)

Today you will visit Iguassu National Park and the Brazilian side of the falls by motor coach. You can follow the paths following the cascades and then along the catwalk which leads you very close to the bottom of the Devil’s Throat. You will have magnificent views from here. Afterwards you take an elevator back up to the road where you will meet your coach for the journey back to the hotel. Enjoy your afternoon at leisure.

Overnight at Iguassu

Day 18: IGUAU RIO DE JANEIRO (BY FLIGHT) (B)

Today you will be transferred to the airport in Iguassu for your flight to Rio de Janeiro. On arrival at the airport in Rio you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check in. Remaining of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Rio de Janeiro

Day 19: RIO DE JANEIRO (B)

This morning enjoy a tour of Rio. Downtown is the business heart of Rio, it is a part of the city where colonial Rio meets modern skyscrapers. Passing along Rio Branco Avenue, you will see Candelaria Church, which was built in the late 18th century and only completed in 1898. The headquarters of major Brazilian banks and commercial enterprises are also located on this avenue. You will also see the Opera House (Teatro Municipal) and Carioca Square, the Church of Santo Antonio built in the 17th century as well as the contrast of the modern buildings such as Petrobras and the Cathedral. You will see Rio's aqueduct built in the 18th century and these days connects the downtown to the Santa Teresa district, an old residential area. Afterwards you will drive through Flamengo Park to one of the highlights of Rio. From the park, you can see the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain, this famous mountain is reached by cable car 1,200 feet high (not included). From the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain you can look down on Rio and discover one of the most spectacular views in the world. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure – the following optional tour can be booked.

Overnight in Rio de Janeiro

Day 20: RIO DE JANEIRO USA /CANADA (B)

Enjoy your day at leisure or book an optional tour. This evening you will be transferred to Rio International Airport for your flight back home. 

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