The Complete South America
$11,669.00
From $11,669* pp | 21-23 Days • 32 -34 Meals *Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy.
An amazing adventure awaits you in South America when you travel to Rio de Janeiro, Igazu Falls, Buenos Aires, Machu Piccu and Chilean Wine Country.
- Discover centuries-old Andean methods of spinning, dyeing and weaving traditional textiles with a visit to a living museum of the Peruvian Andes.
- Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer of Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro.
- Take in breathtaking views through domed cars on the famed Machu Picchu train as you voyage through the Andes to Machu Picchu.
- Relish renowned Chilean wines during a tour of a bodega and learn about the wine-making process.
- Come to know the “Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires, and embrace the art of tango at a live performance.
- Embark on a walk through the Argentine and Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls, marvelling at the powerful Devil’s Throat.
- Behold the dramatic beauty of the majestic peaks and turquoise waters of Patagonia at Torres Del Paine National Park.
The Complete South America
From the mystical Machu Picchu and a journey through Patagonia to three nights in cosmopolitan Rio de Janeiro, home of the World Cup and Olympics in a span of two years, this is the trip of a lifetime across South America, one of the world’s most exciting and diverse destinations. In Peru, visit Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cuzco to learn about the mystical Incan Empire. Sample award-winning wines and enjoy a lunch at a Chilean vineyard while exploring Santiago. In rugged Patagonia, cruise through the Chilean fjords, take in the breathtaking sites at Torres Del Paine and venture to the stunning Perito Moreno glacier in El Calafate. Experience an authentic tango in Buenos Aires. Discover the mighty Iguazu Falls. Craft caipirinhas – Brazil’s famous cocktail – and finish your adventure at your hotel on Copacabana Beach in Rio.
Itinerary
Day 1. Lima, Peru – Tour Begins
Welcome to Peru, one of the treasures of South America. The enduring cultures and breathtaking beauty of the Andes await. Travel through this intriguing land and visit some of the world’s most legendary sites, including Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” Arrive late this evening in Lima, the “City of Kings.”
High 27 Low 21 
Hilton Lima Miraflores
Discover Lima’s fascinating history during a tour through the historic city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Begin by admiring the artwork at San Francisco Monastery before entering the catacombs. View the Government Centre, the elegant Cathedral at Plaza de Armas, the abundance of colonial architecture, and the fashionable suburbs of San Isidro and Miraflores for insight into the daily life of the Limeños. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers at a dinner showcasing Peru’s delicious cuisine and festive entertainment.
Breakfast & Dinner 
High 27 Low 21 
Hilton Lima Miraflores
Day 3. Lima – Cuzco – Sacred Valley of the Incas
Fly to Cuzco, in the heart of the Inca civilisation. Journey through the Andes to the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas, the agricultural centre of their grand empire. Learn the centuries-old methods of spinning, dyeing and weaving traditional textiles during a visit to Awana Kancha, a living museum of the Peruvian Andes. After a short lesson on the local language, stop in Pisac village to browse the colourful handicraft market. A visit to Pablo Seminario Ceramic Studio teaches you about this internationally-renowned artist’s techniques and designs, inspired by ancient Peruvian cultures. This evening, settle into your hotel nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Breakfast & Dinner High 19 Low 7 Casa Andina Private Collection Sacred Valley
Day 4. Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo – Sacred Valley of the Inca
Experience the lifestyle of the modern Andean people and delve into their culture when you travel to a nearby community and interact with the locals. This afternoon, visit the spectacular Ollantaytambo ruins, the only Inca settlement that has been continually inhabited since its inception. A unique terraced complex topped with carved stone panels, these ruins reflect ancient Incan architecture and heritage. Do as the locals do and enjoy a tasting of “chicha,” a unique regional drink made from maize, at a local pub.
Breakfast High 19 Low 7 Casa Andina Private Collection Sacred Valley
Climb aboard the Machu Picchu train for breathtaking views through domed windows as you ride through the Andes to the “Lost City of the Incas.” Hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungle, Machu Picchu is considered the most spectacular sight in South America. Spend the afternoon with your guide uncovering the mysteries of these majestic ruins. Tonight, stay at the base of Machu Picchu for a chance to further soak up its atmosphere. Enjoy an exclusive culinary demonstration before dinner.
Breakfast & Dinner High 18 Low 8 Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
Day 6. Machu Picchu – Cuzco
With leisure time this morning you may return to Machu Picchu on your own or explore the local markets. Return by train to the Sacred Valley and continue to Cuzco, a city that blends Inca and Spanish colonial influences. En route, meet Peruvian children at an orphanage supported by the Collette Foundation*.
Breakfast High 18 Low 8 Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco
Day 7. Cuzco
Explore the former capital of the Inca Empire during a colonial city tour and experience the architectural legacy visible in the Cuzco Cathedral, Santo Domingo and the Plaza de Armas. Discover the important sacred Incan ruins of Sacsayhuaman Fortress. This afternoon you may choose to join an optional excursion to explore the enigmatic Inca terraces at Moray and the salt mines of Maras.
Breakfast & Dinner High 18 Low 8 Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco
Day 8. Cuzco – Santiago, Chile
Say farewell to this mystical land of the Incas and fly south to cosmopolitan Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital city.
Breakfast High 27 Low 9 Atton El Bosque
Day 9. Santiago
Discover the allure of Santiago during a city tour visiting some of the most important sites, including the Palacio de la Moneda (presidential palace), the old historic centre of the city and colourful open-air markets. Pause for a moment to admire the Statue of the Immaculate Conception. We continue our tour with a visit to a local winery for lunch and a sampling of some of Chile’s famous cabernets. An expert will teach you about wine-making in this part of the world.
Breakfast & Lunch High 27 Low 9 Atton El Bosque
Day 10. Santiago – Punta Arenas – Puerto Natales
Leave Santiago behind and fly to the region of Patagonia, the southern portion of Chile and Argentina that is filled with natural wonders. Arrive in Punta Arenas, built along the Strait of Magellan. Visit the old port village and Fort Bulnes, a historical reconstruction based on the original fortified settlement. Take in the stunning scenery before heading to Puerto Natales, the stepping off point to Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park.
Breakfast & Dinner High 16 Low 6 Costaustralis Hotel
Day 11. Puerto Natales
Embark on a full-day cruise through the Chilean Fjords, visiting the breathtaking Serrano and Balmaceda glaciers. As you pass through the Seno Ultima Esperanza – “the last hope fjord” – behold the pristine beauty of the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, Chile’s largest natural reserve. This rugged landscape and unspoiled territory will be a site you’ll never forget.
Breakfast High 16 Low 6 Costaustralis Hotel
Day 12. Puerto Natales – Torres Del Paine
Today you’ll venture into the UNESCO biosphere reserve – Torres Del Paine National Park. Take in the panoramas of jagged mountains and emerald-blue lakes. Marvel at the cascading waterfalls and the flora & fauna that are unique to the area. This evening, settle into your hotel inside the national park.
Breakfast High 12 Low 5 Las Torres Patagonia
Breakfast & Dinner High 16 Low 6 Esplendor El Calafate
Day 14. El Calafate – Perito Moreno Glacier
Discover the jewel of Argentina’s Patagonia – Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site forms part of the Patagonian Continental Ice Field and is one of the few glaciers in the world still advancing. Gaze off the shoreline in search of floating icebergs as you listen to the crashing of ice breaking off the glacier.
Breakfast & Lunch High 16 Low 6 Esplendor El Calafate
Day 15. El Calafate – Buenos Aires
Board your flight to Buenos Aires, birthplace of the tango and the “Paris of South America.” Stretching along the banks of the Rio de la Plata, the city is a mosaic of European-styled architecture and South American spirit. Tonight, enjoy an interactive presentation from a local resident to discuss daily life in Buenos Aires.
Breakfast High 26 Low 15 Hotel Panamericano
Embark on a tour of this capital city. See the lavish Teatro Colon opera house and the famous Avenida 9 de Julio. Pause for a moment at the Recoleta Cemetery, where Evita Peron rests. View the Presidential Palace, the Casa Rosada, the colourful La Boca neighbourhood and the historic San Telmo barrio. Later, take a stroll through San Martin Park or Calle de Florida, a shopper’s paradise. The remainder of the day is yours to explore this magnificent city as you choose. This evening, savour Argentine cuisine and wine before embracing the art of the dance that has made Buenos Aires famous during a stunning tango performance.
Breakfast & Dinner High 26 Low 15 Hotel Panamericano
Day 17. Buenos Aires
Enjoy a day to explore the cultural delights of Buenos Aires on your own. Visit a local market, art museum or spend the afternoon at an elegant sidewalk café. Or, perhaps choose to cross the Argentine Pampas to experience the culture of Argentina’s gauchos at a typical estancia and savour a hearty asado lunch – a typical Argentine barbeque.
Breakfast High 26 Low 15 Hotel Panamericano
Day 18. Buenos Aires – Iguazu Falls
Leave Buenos Aires behind and fly to Iguazu Falls, located at the crossroads of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, and hailed as the most beautiful waterfall in the world. Take a ride on the Rainforest Ecological Train inside the national park and enjoy a walking tour of the Argentine side of Iguazu Falls. Then, make your way across the border and settle into your resort.
Breakfast & Dinner High 30 Low 20 Bourbon Cataratas Resort Convention Centre
Day 19. Iguazu Falls
Today starts with a tour of the Brazilian side of the falls. Take a walk to the platform overlooking the powerful Devil’s Throat. Discover unparalleled views of five waterfalls as they plummet into the Iguazu River. Options to further explore the falls and the surrounding areas will be available this afternoon.
Breakfast High 30 Low 20 Bourbon Cataratas Resort Convention Centre
Day 20. Iguazu Falls – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
This afternoon you’ll fly to Rio de Janeiro, host to the 2016 Summer Olympics. Magnificent views, beautiful beaches, flamboyant Carnival costumes and friendly people make Rio the cultural capital of Brazil. Learn how to craft caipirinhas – Brazil’s famous cocktail made with sugar cane liquor and lime – before tonight’s dinner in a typical Brazilian churrascaria featuring an assortment of grilled meats and local specialities.
Breakfast & Dinner High 32 Low 23 Windsor Atlantica
Day 21. Rio de Janeiro
Enjoy a glorious day of sightseeing in Rio. We begin with train ride up to the top of Corcovado to see the iconic Christ the Redeemer, one of the largest Art Deco statues in the world. Take in the panoramic vistas of Tijuca National Park, the world’s largest urban forest. To one side you’ll see the city and its centrepiece, the Maracanã Football Stadium, host to footballs 2014 World Cup. On the other side lie the lagoon, beaches and the Atlantic Ocean. Continue exploring downtown Rio, including its grand cathedral. The rest of the afternoon is yours. You may choose to stroll down the beach made famous in the “Girl from Ipanema” or see lovely Flamengo Park.
Breakfast High 32 Low 23 Windsor Atlantica
Day 22. Rio de Janeiro
This is your chance to experience the “Marvellous City” your way. Make the most of a full day at leisure to relax or discover more of Rio on your own. Perhaps you would enjoy an optional excursion to the famous Sugarloaf Mountain in the morning or the truly historic neighbourhood of Santa Teresa in the afternoon. As always, your Tour Manager will be on hand to help you plan your day. Tonight, bid farewell to South America at your farewell dinner.
Breakfast & Dinner High 32 Low 23 Windsor Atlantica
Day 23. Rio de Janeiro – Tour Ends
After breakfast your tour comes to a close and we say goodbye.
Breakfast
INCLUSIONS
Accommodation
Meals as per itinerary
Tour guide
Activities as stated
Please note: Accommodation is subject to change.
EXCLUSIONS
Flights
Meals not indicated on the itinerary
Drinks
Optional activities
Visas
Comprehensive travel insurance
Items of a personal nature – laundry, telephone, room service
Tips and gratuities
- Brazil and Argentina cities visited are 2 hours, Chile is 1 hour ahead, and Peru is 1 hour behind EST.
- The highest elevation on tour is 11,200 feet above sea level, in Cuzco.
- The currency in Brazil is the Real, Argentina is the Peso, Chile is the Chilean peso, and Peru is the nuevo sol.
- Brazil is on 127 or 220 V, and Argentina, Chile, and Peru are on 220 V.
- Why not consider a pre and post tour extension. Start and end your holiday rested.
This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, upstairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.
March 2017.
Mar 13 – Mar 24. $3,469
Mar 27 – Apr 7. $3,599
April 2017.
Apr 3 – Apr 14. $3,729
Apr 24 – May 5. $3,729