Essence of South America: Capitals, Landscapes & Wonders
About the trip
Discover the cultural treasures and natural wonders of South America on an unforgettable journey through Peru, Argentina, and Brazil. Explore Lima and Cusco, immersing yourself in Peru’s rich history and traditions, before uncovering the mysteries of Machu Picchu and the legacy of the Inca civilization. Continue to Buenos Aires, where vibrant neighborhoods, tango, and local culture await, then marvel at the power of Iguazú Falls. Finish your adventure in Rio de Janeiro, enjoying its iconic beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and lively atmosphere.
Gateway to Peru’s Heritage
Upon arrival in Lima, you will be transferred to your hotel in private service. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax after your journey or begin discovering the vibrant atmosphere of Peru’s capital.
Located on the Pacific coast, Lima is the starting point for exploring Peru’s rich history, culture, and traditions. Once the center of the Spanish Viceroyalty in South America, the city offers a fascinating blend of ancient civilizations, colonial heritage, and modern influences. Wander through its historic districts, admire beautifully preserved churches and architecture, or discover the remains of pre-Hispanic cultures that shaped the region long before the arrival of the Spanish.
Beyond its historical treasures, Lima is also renowned as one of South America’s great culinary capitals, where fresh seafood, traditional flavors, and innovative cuisine come together. With ocean views, vibrant neighborhoods, and a unique cultural identity, Lima offers the perfect introduction to your Peruvian adventure.
- Type of service: Private
- Included: Transportation mentioned above, guide assistance during transfer.
Lima
Today, you will be picked up from your hotel to discover the flavors, traditions, and ingredients that make Peruvian cuisine one of the most celebrated in South America.
Begin your culinary adventure at a traditional local market, where you will explore a vibrant selection of native ingredients. Discover Peru’s incredible variety of fruits, including chirimoya, lúcuma, and aguaymanto, and learn more about the fresh fish and seafood that play a central role in the country’s coastal cuisine.
Continue to a renowned Lima restaurant, where you will take part in a hands-on experience preparing two iconic Peruvian specialties: the refreshing pisco sour and the world-famous ceviche. Learn about the history and techniques behind these beloved creations before enjoying a delicious lunch featuring some of the most representative dishes of Peruvian gastronomy.
A perfect introduction to Peru through its flavors, traditions, and culinary heritage.
Sacred Valley
Lima to the Sacred Valley
Today, you will be transferred to the airport for a short flight to Cusco, one of Peru’s most fascinating destinations and the historic heart of the Inca Empire.
Located high in the Andes, Cusco is the gateway to Machu Picchu and the surrounding archaeological wonders of the Sacred Valley. This remarkable region combines ancient Inca heritage, vibrant local traditions, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred directly to your hotel in the Sacred Valley, where you can relax and acclimatize to the altitude while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of this extraordinary Andean setting.
Sacred Valley
Aguas Calientes
After breakfast at your hotel, begin one of the most unforgettable experiences of your journey through Peru: a visit to the legendary Machu Picchu.
Travel by train through the spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the Andes towards Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. This charming town is the gateway to Peru’s most iconic archaeological site and the final stop before reaching the ancient Inca citadel.
From Aguas Calientes, a short bus ride takes you up the mountain to Machu Picchu, a masterpiece of Inca engineering and architecture built as a sacred sanctuary for Emperor Pachacutec. Meaning “Old Mountain” in Quechua, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
During your guided visit, discover the history, mysteries, and remarkable construction techniques behind this extraordinary site, surrounded by lush mountains and breathtaking Andean scenery.
After the tour, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at Café Inkaterra Machu Picchu. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax, explore the town, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before your overnight stay.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
This morning, you may choose to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit and explore some of the citadel’s additional highlights at your own pace. (Second-day entrance is not included but can be requested in advance, subject to availability.)
Discover some of the site’s most fascinating corners, such as Intipunku, the “Sun Gate,” an ancient entrance point offering impressive views of Machu Picchu and traditionally associated with the arrival of the first rays of sunlight. You may also visit the Inca Bridge, a remarkable stone construction built along a narrow mountain path that formed part of the citadel’s access routes.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, it is possible to hike Huayna Picchu, meaning “Young Mountain” in Quechua, located opposite Machu Picchu. This steep ascent takes approximately one hour and offers spectacular views of the citadel below. The trail may also include access to the Temple of the Moon, an impressive complex of carved stone structures hidden within the mountain. (Huayna Picchu ticket and additional entrance fees are not included and are subject to availability.)
In the afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Cusco, enjoying the scenic landscapes of the Andes along the way. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires
Welcome to the Rainforest
At the appropriate time, you will be transferred in private service to Jorge Newbery Airport (AEP) for your flight to Puerto Iguazú, continuing your journey through Argentina’s incredible contrasts.
Welcome to Puerto Iguazú! Located in the northeastern corner of the country, this charming border town is the gateway to the spectacular Iguazú Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in semi-private service with a guide. Surrounded by lush rainforest and a warm subtropical climate, Puerto Iguazú offers a completely different atmosphere from the cities and mountains you have explored so far.
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax, explore the surroundings, and prepare for the unforgettable natural experience that awaits at Iguazú Falls.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro
Included
- 2 Nights in Lima
- 2 Nights in Valle Sagrado
- 1 Nights in Aguas Calientes
- 2 Nights in Cusco
- 2 Nights in Buenos Aires
- 2 Nights in Puerto Iguazu
- 3 Nights in Rio De Janeiro
- Transfers & Meals mentioned in the itinerary.
Not Included
- Fees & Mandatory Documentation.Except when mentioned in the itinerary.
- International or Domestic Flights (quoted separately if requested).
- Travel / Medical Insurance – To get a free quotation please follow this link: Travel Insurance.
- Brazilian VISA: Citizens of some nationalities are required to present a tourist VISA to enter Brazil. Travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia will need a tourist visa to enter the country. Please check the requirements on your country’s consulate website. If you need any other information, check this link
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