Comprehensive South America

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Categories: Amazon, Latam, Machu Picchu, Multi Country Circuits, Patagonia, South America, South America Circuits

Duration: 37 days

from A$16402

For those with enough time to fully experience what South America has to offer, this comprehensive trip is for you. From its spectacular, vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires and La Paz, to the fantastic eco lodges within the Amazon and Pantanal, this trip has something for everyone. You’ll even have the opportunity to travel overland through the wildernesses of Patagonia and the Bolivian altiplano, an experience no traveller should miss

Overview
Itinerary
Dates
Accommodation
Inclusions

Itinerary Highlights
- Explore the cultural city of Santiago, including the impressive Plaza de Armas and Santa Lucia Hill.
- Explore the hills and winding streets in the eclectic city of Valparaiso.
- Spend four days exploring the mighty Torres del Paine National Park whilst staying in a luxury camp, where every detail has been taken care of for you so you can admire the magnificent and wild nature of this region.
- Visit the best of South America’s glaciers, the spectacular Perito Moreno.
- Suspend yourself over the highest of Iguazu Falls at the inspiring Devil’s Throat.
- Explore Buenos Aires and experience one of Argentina’s best known contributions to culture – the Tango.
- Visit Rio’s iconic sites including Copacabana Beach, Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.
- Experience the colonial grandeur and excellent museums of Lima.
- With its ancient archaeological sites, fascinating museums and unique Andean atmosphere, Cusco’s sights and sounds never fail to inspire all those who travel there.
- Visit the local market in the picturesque town of Pisac.
- Take a guided tour of Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
- Cruise to the magical Sun Island on Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
- Visit the city of La Paz, the highest capital in the world.
- Admire the breathtaking scenery of the Atacama Desert and surroundings.
- Traverse the Salar de Uyuni, one of Latin America's most remote and stunning landscapes, filled with active volcanoes, thermal pools and multi-coloured lakes filled with flamingos.
- Take a fascinating eco-tourism experience in the heart of the Amazon rainforest.
Itinerary in brief
- Day 1: Santiago arrival transfer.
- Day 2: Exclusive Santiago Tour.
- Day 3: Valparaiso, Vina del Mar & the Vineyards.
- Day 4: Santiago – Punta Arenas – Torres del Paine.
- Day 5 & 6: Torres del Paine activities included.
- Day 7: Torres del Paine – El Calafate.
- Day 8: Perito Moreno glacier tour & Nautical Safari.
- Day 9: El Calafate to Buenos Aires.
- Day 10: Buenos Aires Centro, San Telmo & Boca half day tour. Evening Tango show.
- Day 11: Buenos Aires - Recoleta & Palermo half day tour.
- Day 12: Buenos Aires to Iguazu.
- Day 13: Argentinean Falls tour.
- Day 14: Flight from Iguazu to Cuiabá and transfer to Rio Mutum Lodge. Dinner and evening at leisure.
- Day 15: Rio Mutum activities including horse riding, boat safari & nocturnal animal spotting.
- Day 16: Rio Mutum activities including ecological walk, bird watching, boat cruise, piranha fishing and caiman spotting.
- Day 17: Morning activity prior to departure transfer to Cuiabá airport for flight to Rio de Janeiro.
- Day 18: Corcovado ‘Christ the Redeemer’ tour & Santa Teresa.
- Day 19: Sugarloaf Mountain tour.
- Day 20: Rio to Lima.
- Day 21: Exclusive Lima Tour.
- Day 22: Fly from Lima to Puerto Maldonado & boat transfer to your Amazon lodge. Evening activity and all meals included.
- Day 23: All meals and all activities included at your Amazon Lodge.
- Day 24: Return to Puerto Maldonado airport for your flight to Cusco.
- Day 25: Cusco City Tour.
- Day 26: Tour of the Sacred Valley and afternoon train to Machu Picchu.
- Day 27: Machu Picchu morning tour including option to trek Huayna Picchu. Return to Cusco.
- Day 28: Cusco to Puno via spectacular Andean scenery and Incan ruins.
- Day 29: Lake Titicaca cruise to Uros & Taquile Islands.
- Day 30: Travel from Puno to La Paz via the Island of the Sun.
- Day 31: La Paz city tour
- Day 32: La Paz – Uyuni flight and embark on 3 day Salar Uyuni trip to San Pedro Atacama.
- Day 33: Salar de Uyuni.
- Day 34: Salar de Uyuni – San Pedro de Atacama.
- Day 35: Valley of the Moon tour.
- Day 36: San Pedro departure transfer to Calama airport for flight to Santiago.
- Day 37: Santiago departure transfer.
Tailor-made suggestions for this itinerary
- Add in a side trip to the spectacular Galapagos Islands.
- Explore spectacular tropical islands close to Rio.
- Further Peru's many highlights with visit to the Nazca Lines, the colonial city of Arequipa and the Colca Canyon.
- Take South America's most iconic trek and hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Day 1: Santiago arrival

On arrival at Santiago airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

After check in to your hotel, the remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the Chilean capital.

Day 2: Exclusive Santiago Tour

Let us introduce you to the classic city we know and love on this 6 hour tour exploring the city’s most popular sights along with some of our personal favourites. Chile´s rich cultural heritage comes to life as we visit the iconic symbols of the city, including La Plaza de Armas (the main square), La Moneda (the government palace), the Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral and the spectacular Cerro Santa Lucia, where the city was founded in 1541.

We continue to the bohemian area of Bellavista and climb the San Cristobal hill for a panoramic view of Santiago with the Andes Mountains in the background. We’ll also visit the Orient Sector, the most modern area of the city, with its impressive high rise buildings and classy boulevards before we offer you a choice of the activities designed to enhance your Santiago experience.

You’ll be given the option (you can decide on the day) to visit the picturesque Los Dominicos craft market where we can walk through the artisan village and enjoy a tasty empanada at one of the outdoor cafés, discover Santiago’s impressive pre-Columbian museum, explore the historic Lastarria Neighbourhood or take a walking tour through the Mercado Central, Chile’s largest fresh seafood market where you can try some of the local cuisine on offer. If you’d like to visit all these places then just let us know in advance and we can extend your tour to do this.

On completion of the tour you’ll be returned back to your hotel and have free time to further explore the city at your leisure.

* As an alternative to this traditional city tour, we can also offer the city tour as a walking or bike riding tour. Let us know if you’d like more details on these options.

Breakfast included.

Day 3: Valparaiso, Vina Del Mar & the Vineyards

Today we will head over to the coast and explore one of the most fascinating cities in Chile; Valparaiso. ‘Valpo’, as it is fondly known by locals, was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, and it is not difficult to see why. Picturesque architecture and multi-coloured urban housing spread out over more than forty hills, creating one of world’s most eclectic, unique cities.

We will visit the downtown area with its new government house, the Plaza Sotomayor, the Plaza Victoria, the cathedral and the harbour area. Afterwards we take a funicular up into the hills where there is a fantastic collection of brightly painted houses and a fantastic view over the city. We enjoy coffee in one of the many cosy restaurants before we enjoy a stroll through the labyrinth of colourful streets lined with impressive street-art. You can also visit the former home of Pablo Neruda (entrance fee not included) and learn a little more about this famous Chilean poet.

From Valparaiso we’ll head to the fashionable coastal resort city of Viña del Mar where we can admire the famous city ‘flower clock’ and visit the Main Square, which offers an ampitheatre that hosts the Viña del Mar International Song Festival every summer.

We include time for lunch and on the way back to Santiago we will explore the Casablanca valley with its famous orchards, citrus groves, grape plantations and wonderful mountain backdrops. For those interested in tasting some of the local produce a visit to a local vineyard can be arranged. We return you back to your hotel in Santiago where you have the evening at your leisure.

Breakfast included.

Day 4: Santiago – Punta Arenas – Torres del Paine

Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Santiago airport for your departure flight.

From the airport or your hotel in Punta Arenas you’ll be transferred to your luxury tented lodge in Torres del Paine National Park where you’ll spend the next four days immersing yourself in the extraordinary natural landscapes of Patagonia.

Along the way we pass through the Patagonian steppe, a wide, open, vast territory before arriving at the lodge in the afternoon.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the spectacular surroundings of your lodge before enjoying a fine dinner reflecting the Patagonian traditions - a wonderful barbecue of lamb or local fish ceviche.

Breakfast, Dinner included.

Day 5 & 6: Torres del Paine

Enjoy the next two days with excursions of Torres del Paine where you’ll visit some of the most important viewpoints and attractions of this world famous National Park.

Your stay includes all meals and activities with several walking excursions available, including Torres Base, Laguna Azul, Lake Grey and several others. The walks are suitable for walkers of varying levels and there are also many other activities such as mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, horse riding and fishing.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.

Day 7: Torres del Paine – El Calafate

Today you will take a bus across the border into El Calafate the capital of Argentinean Patagonia. On arrival in El Calafate, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you will spend the next two nights. El Calafate is located on Lake Argentino, a green glacial lake covering over 1,600 sqkm. Your afternoon and evening are at your leisure to explore the town, where we recommend trying the Patagonian lamb at one of the local restaurants.

Breakfast included.

Day 8: Perito Moreno Glacier & Nautical Safari

After breakfast you will be picked up from your hotel for your excursion to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most famous landmarks in South America and one of Patagonia’s only advancing glaciers. The glacier is 5 kilometres wide, with an average height of 74 metres above the surface of the water of Lake Argentino and a total ice depth of 170 metres.

You’ll go first to the glacier’s less frequented north face to marvel at its splendour. You’ll observe and hear giant chunks of ice plummet into the waters of Lake Argentino. Your guide will answer questions about the glacier and the park, and then we’ll continue on to the footbridges and take a break to enjoy the surroundings. You’ll also have the opportunity to do a short nautical safari to observe this magnificent glacier from a closer viewpoint.

After the thrilling encounter with the Perito Moreno, we’ll drive back to Calafate where you will spend the evening.

**For those after something a little more adventurous, we can offer a ‘Big Ice’ excursion where you hike into the core of Perito Moreno Glacier and experience its surreal beauty. Let us know if you’d like more details on this excursion.

Breakfast included.

Day 9: El Calafate –Buenos Aires

Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Calafate airport for your flight to Buenos Aires where you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

This evening, you are free to explore. We recommend you try a local parilla (steak house) for dinner.

Breakfast included.

Day 10: Buenos Aires - Centro, San Telmo & Boca half day tour. Evening Tango show.

This morning's excursion will introduce you to the magic of the Argentine capital. After being picked up from your hotel we start with a visit of 'San Telmo', the oldest barrio (neighbourhood) of Buenos Aires which is famous for its historic architecture, tango parlours and antique shops. We take our time and wander through the cobblestone streets learning about the history of the area and seeing its sights including its impressive old churches and its abundance of colourful street art.

We leave San Telmo and the tour continues past the many architectural highlights of Buenos Aires including the Palace of Justice, the Argentine National Congress building, the 'Cabildo (old town hall) and the presidential palace 'Casa Rosada' (pink house).

Next we visit ‘La Boca’, the most picturesque of all neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires. This extravagant zone is completely different to the old and to the modern Buenos Aires and romantic stories tell us that tango was born in this working class area. We wander its famous street “Caminito” where you will have the chance to view the spectacle of impromptu tango dancing, street performers and have the chance to buy some local handicrafts.

On our way back to your hotel we pass through the newly restored Puerto Madero area where you can choose to be dropped off at for a nice meal by the waterfront. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure with the chance to visit some of Buenos Aires’ many great museums or do some shopping.

Tango expresses the heart and spirit of Argentina and no visit to Buenos Aires would be complete without it. This evening, you will experience the intimacy of this dance in equally intimate surroundings while you indulge in delicious Argentine cuisine.

*Before the show you have the option of arriving before the others and taking a short tango lesson with a professional dancer or a wine tasting. This comes at an additional cost but if you would like to book either of these please let your consultant know.

Breakfast, Dinner included.

Day 11: Buenos Aires - Recoleta & Palermo half day tour

This morning you will further discover what makes Buenos Aires great as we explore its better known and sophisticated districts; Palermo and Recoleta. We start with a drive through Recoleta with its open green spaces mixed in with elegant boutique shopping, cafés, embassies and impressive architecture. We visit such landmarks as the Pilar Church and Evita Monument before taking a short walk through the Recoleta cemetery where Evita’s tomb can be found.

We continue on to Palermo which is Buenos Aires’ largest neighbourhood, and also its trendiest. Here you will walk the streets which are full of beautiful parks, hip boutique hotels, chic restaurants and bars, and high fashion stores. Throughout the morning your knowledgeable guide will give you an insight into local life and excellent local cuisine and on completion of the tour you will have the option of being dropped off at an excellent restaurant for lunch or being taken back to your hotel.

*Another option on this day is to cross the Rio de la Plata into Uruguay and spend the day in the historic town of Colonia del Sacramento or visit a traditional estancia in the ‘Pampas’ region. Supplements apply and these tours must be pre-organised.

Breakfast included.
Day 12: Buenos Aires to Iguazu

Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Buenos Aires airport for your flight to Iguazu where you are met and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

This afternoon you will enjoy a tour of the panoramic Brazilian side of the falls. Here, you'll watch as 14 separate waterfalls drop with such force that a tall cloud of mist stays permanently suspended overhead. Great photo opportunities abound, however, raincoats are highly advisable!

*If you wish to upgrade to one of the two hotels located in the national park overlooking the falls, please let us know as these exclusive, award-winning hotels book out well in advance.

Breakfast included.
Day 13: Argentinean falls tour

In the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Iguazu National Park. From the entrance, a small train will take you on a tour of the park. On the first of two stops, you’ll follow pathways to the top of the Cataratas (“The Falls”) where you’ll find a spectacular view of the falls and their surrounding scenery, including an abundance of orchids, colourful birds and other native wildlife. The second stop occurs at La Garganta del Diablo (“The Devil’s Throat”), the largest fall in the park and also the highlight of the tour. A suspended platform at the brink of the fall allows for a startlingly close view of this breathtaking natural wonder.

*For those who want a little more adventure, we recommend the Great Adventure Boat Tour, which enables you to gain a different perspective as you cruise on a motorboat underneath the falls.

Breakfast included.
Day 14: Iguazu – The Pantanal

Early this morning our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you across the border into Brazil to Foz do Iguazu airport for your departure flight.

On arrival you will be met and transferred to your lodge located deep in the Pantanal, approximately a 3 hour drive away from Cuiabá, the capital of Mato Grosso. Along the way, you’ll observe many kinds of birds, small mammals and typical landscapes. After check-in, you’ll receive an introduction to the lodge and surrounding areas. In the evening, a delicious piranha soup is served just before dinner. After dinner, there will be an introduction to the activities of the following days. The evening is yours to relax at the lodge.

Breakfast, Dinner included.
Day 15: Pantanal – Pousada do Rio Mutum

After breakfast, there will be horseback trail riding through the jungle and up to the edge of the Siá Mariana bay. Throughout the year, a large variety of birds, animals and reptiles can be observed. Afterward, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you can experience a boat ride safari in Mutum River. In its crystal clear water it is possible to see giant otters, stingrays and many schools of colourful, small fish. At the Mutum river banks, a large variety of birds can be observed. You’ll then return to the lodge for dinner, and afterward venture out for nocturnal animal spotting by jeep in the lodge’s surrounding area. Later, you’ll return to the lodge for the evening.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.
Day 16: Pantanal – Pousada do Rio Mutum

After breakfast, take an ecological walk through the jungle and open fields to observe animals and birds. Having the largest diversity of bird species in the world, the Pantanal is especially interesting for bird watching. Afterward, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll take a boat trip down the Mutum river banks, Siá Mariana bay and Chacororé bay. Return by boat to the lodge, stopping to see the sunset at the Siá Mariana bay and to go piranha fishing. In the evening, feed caiman with piranhas fished from Siá Mariana bay and enjoy nocturnal animal spotting. You’ll return to the lodge for dinner in the evening.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.
Day 17: Pantanal – Rio de Janeiro
At 4:30am, we’ll begin canoeing in the Mutum River to observe the sunrise and the beauty of Pantanal wildlife at the break of dawn. Later in the morning we’ll return to the lodge for breakfast and checkout. Transfer to the Cuiabá airport for your flight to the “Cidade Maravilhosa” (“Marvellous City”), Rio de Janeiro, where on arrival you will be met and transferred to your beach side hotel.

This evening you are at your leisure. We recommend trying a local churrasco (Brazilian BBQ) for dinner.

Breakfast included.
Day 18: Corcovado ‘Christ the Redeemer’ tour & Santa Teresa

Depart from the hotel to visit the Christ Statue, recently elected as one of the seven modern wonders of the world. The statue sits 2,300 ft. above sea level, atop Corcovado Hill. Following a scenic drive along the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, we will arrive at the foot of the hill, where we will embark on a small train ride up the beautiful mountainside. Upon reaching the top, visitors will experience a panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro and discover why it is known as the “Marvellous City”!

From here we will drive to Santa Teresa, a traditional neighbourhood located high upon the hills of the city, overlooking downtown and Guanabara Bay. Home to several Twentieth century mansions, cultural houses, galleries and gourmet restaurants, Santa Teresa’s charming cobbled streets are also a haven for local artists and intellectuals. You will have time for a quick snack in Santa Teresa before we return back to your hotel and have the remainder of the afternoon and evening at leisure.

At night the city doesn't sleep, so there are great options for relaxed, live music and samba shows, plus a host of world class restaurants serving fine Brazilian and international cuisine.

Breakfast included.
Day 19: Sugarloaf Mountain tour

Over a million tourists every year visit the world famous Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain), which has become an iconic symbol of the city of Rio de Janeiro. Rising up from a small peninsula at the entrance of Guanabara Bay, its name is said to refer to its resemblance to the traditional shape of concentrated, refined sugarloaf. A cable car takes passengers to the top of Urca Hill, which rises 215 metres above sea level and offers spectacular views of the entire bay and its islands. From Urca Hill, passengers continue in a second cable car to the top of Sugarloaf, which rises 395 metres above sea level and offers a 360 degree view of the entire city, including Botafogo and Copacabana Beaches, Corcovado and downtown Rio.

Breakfast included.
Day 20: Rio - Lima

Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Rio de Janiero airport for your flight to Lima where on arrival you will be transferred to your centrally located hotel.

This evening is at your leisure and we recommend venturing into one of Lima’s many outstanding restaurants in the “Gastronomical Capital of Latin America”. In particular we suggest you try ceviche, the national dish of Peru, which is a form of citrus-marinated seafood.

Breakfast included.
Day 21: Exclusive Lima Tour

Depart this morning on a 5 hour sightseeing tour exploring the most impressive sights of Lima along with some of our handpicked favourites. We will start in Miraflores market, a vibrant place visited by local chefs for its wonderful variety of fresh produce from the coast, the Andes and the Amazon. Take the chance to learn more about Peru’s diversity reflected in the colourful assortment of vegetables, fruits, fish and condiments.

On the way to Lima’s downtown we pass by ‘Huaca Pucllana’ an ancient adobe pyramid structure which served as one of the region’s most important ceremonial temples between the years of 200 AD and 700 AD. We continue to the San Isidro district and visit the impressive ‘El Olivar’ park before stopping at the historic Hotel Bolivar where you have the chance to taste Peru’s national drink, the ‘Pisco Sour’. This hotel used to be Lima’s most elegant and sophisticated hotel and the hotel’s barman will show you how to mix this tasty drink. Later we visit Lima’s downtown with its historic and traditional buildings: the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, the Archbishop’s palace and the Metropolitan City Hall surround the Main Square. Continue to San Francisco church and monastery, a 17th century jewel, recognised as a cultural heritage site by UNESCO.

This tour finishes with a guided visit of the Larco Herrera Museum. This is a fabulous private museum with an exquisite collection of gold and silver treasures from ancient Peru. Many pieces in this museum are now world famous after having been exhibited in the best museums around the world.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the city on your own.

Breakfast included.
Day 22: Lima - The Amazon

Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Lima airport for your departure flight to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the lowlands of the Amazon jungle. On arrival we travel by motorised canoe to our lodge in the Tambopata Rainforest area, which holds the world record for the most bird sightings in one area.

During our voyage you will have the chance to see bird species typical of the river or forest edge such as Black Skimmers, Pied Lapwings, Capped Herons, Jabiru Storks, Roadside Hawks and several species of kingfishers, swallows, and flycatchers. The Tambopata area includes habitats ranging from the Andean highlands around the rivers' headwaters through some of the last remaining intact cloud forests to the lowland rainforests of the Amazon basin. The area is renowned for its diverse plant and animal populations and include over 1,300 bird species. Some of the more famous residents are the Harpy Eagle, the prehistoric looking Hoatzin, tapir, peccary, jaguar, ocelot and playful river otters who live in the area’s oxbow lakes.

During your stay at the lodge all meals and activities are included.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.
Day 23: The Amazon

Today you will enjoy guided excursions by expert naturalists to spot wildlife at nearby oxbow lakes, clay licks and treetop towers.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.

Day 24: Puerto Maldonado - Cusco

After an early breakfast we return by motorised canoe for the return trip to the Puerto Maldonado Airport, taking advantage of valuable early morning wildlife activity along the river. From here you’ll fly 45 minutes to Cusco.

On arrival at Cusco airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

We suggest you take things slowly today in order to acclimatise to Cusco's altitude or even add in an additional day for relaxation. In the evening there are many excellent restaurants to choose from in Cusco.

Breakfast included.
Day 25: Cusco City Tour

Your first morning in Cusco can be spent at your leisure, enjoying breakfast before exploring Cusco or relaxing at your hotel. In the afternoon you will be met for your guided tour of Cusco and its archaeological sites. Your Cusco tour will include highlights such as Plaza de Armas, the cathedral and Koricancha Temple. We also visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed ruins of Sacsayhuaman just outside of Cusco which were once the former capital of the Incan Empire.

Breakfast included.
Day 26: Cusco - Sacred Valley – Aguas Calientes

Today, we discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas on this full day excursion. This fertile river valley was home to many important sites for the Incas, both strategic and religious. We travel to the scenic town of Pisac where you'll visit the colourful local market and have free time to search for a souvenir or two before enjoying a typical Andean lunch at a local restaurant.

We then continue our journey along the River Urubamba, to Ollantaytambo, where you will visit the Ollantaytambo Ruins and one of its best preserved areas, Hanan Hucaypata. Catch the scenic afternoon train to Aguas Calientes where you will spend the evening and prepare for your early morning visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

*Option to add a night in the colonial town of Ollantaytambo and continue to Machu Picchu early tomorrow, giving you the opportunity to enjoy two visits to Machu Picchu.

Breakfast, Lunch included.
Day 27: Machu Picchu

This morning you will have an early start to visit Machu Picchu at sunrise and see the vivid colours brightening up this amazing destination. You will have a guided tour of the ruins and monuments, such as the Main Square, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Solar Clock, the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the cemeteries. The citadel was discovered in 1911 by the American explorer and Academic, Hiram Bingham. Many theories on the citadel exist, but most agree it was a holy site, hidden for centuries and never found by the invading Spanish.

For those looking for adventure, we recommend the 1.5 hour trek up Huayna Picchu Mountain, which overlooks Machu Picchu and allows for spectacular views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding area. Your return train through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to Cusco will depart in the afternoon and arrive in the early evening.

Includes guided tour, return bus from Aguas Calientes village and return to Cusco by train.

Breakfast included.
Day 28: Cusco - Puno

Today we travel along the Vilcanota River and onto the altiplano, the high plains separating the Andes from the jungle. Although it is quite a long drive, it is interesting and often spectacular. There are scheduled short tours at interesting sites like Rachi, Andahuayillas and La Raya to help break up the day and all along the route we get a feeling for the immensity of the Andean landscapes. Transfer to your hotel on arrival.

*On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (May – October), and Saturdays there is the option of making the journey by train aboard the luxury Andean Explorer for an additional cost.

Breakfast included.
Day 29: Uros & Taquile Island
This morning we board our speed boat for the cruise to the Uros and Taquile Islands. By taking a speed boat we save 2 hours travel time giving you more time to explore the islands.

Our first stop is to visit the Uros Indians, who live on islands of floating reeds and, save for a few modest concessions to the modern world, still live as their ancestors would have done centuries ago. We continue on to Taquile Island where we will tour around the ruins and visit these beautiful people, world famous for their intricate and fascinating weavings. After lunch we will return to Puno and transfer back to your hotel.

* If you have an extra day then we recommend spending this evening in an authentic Lake Titicaca island home. On the following day you will return to Puno via Taquile Island.

Breakfast, Lunch included.
Day 30: Puno – La Paz

Transfer to the bus station for the bus from Puno to Copacabana completing the border crossing along the way. On arrival in Copacabana your guide will take you on a short tour of the town including a visit to the famous Virgen Morena and its church.

After lunch in a local restaurant you will take the boat to the Island of the Sun where according to the legend, the Inca couple Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo appeared to found the Empire of the Sun. On arrival we explore the Inca steps and the small community of Yumani which has kept its traditions and boasts breathtaking views over the lake. After visiting the Pilkokaina ruins we sail back to Copacabana and continue onto La Paz.

The first glimpse of La Paz will, literally, take your breath away, and not only because of its altitude (3660 metres above sea level). The city’s buildings cling to the sides of the canyon and on a clear day the imposing Mount Illimani, which reaches a height of 6439 metres, provides a spectacular backdrop. This evening will be at your leisure.

*A nice option here is to add a relaxing night on Isla del Sol.

Breakfast, Lunch included.

Day 31: La Paz city tour

Our 5 hour tour of La Paz begins with a visit to the Bolivian National Museum of Archaeology which is located in the capital of La Paz and serves as an insightful look into the mystifying relics of Bolivia’s past. Wander the halls, gaze at artefacts dating back as far as 1,500 BC and trace the history of the indigenous peoples from eras long forgotten through the art which is still being produced today. From here we head to ‘Mirador Balcón’ which offers spectacular views of the city and after a short walk we reach Plaza Murillo and admire the colonial architecture around the square as your guide introduces the culture and history of La Paz and Bolivia. Enjoy a traditional midmorning ‘Salteña’ snack as you take in the plaza.

We then wander through Calle Jaen, with its steep, narrow cobblestone alley lined with brightly coloured colonial houses, cafes and museums before taking a cable car to El Alto. You can expect spectacular views and then at the end you are met by your driver and transferred back into town where we visit the Witches' Market. Your guide shares information about Aymara healing and spiritual beliefs as you browse an amazing array of medicinal herbs, folk remedies and talismans. You can even pay to have your fortune told by a shaman who specialises in reading fortunes with coca leaves. We return you to your hotel and you have the remainder of the day at leisure.

* The Gold Museum and some other municipal museums are closed on Monday.

Breakfast included.
Day 32: La Paz – Uyuni
This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your short flight to Uyuni.

On arrival in Uyuni you will embark on a 3 day desert crossing by 4WD (expert English speaking guide included) across the stunning, mars-like landscapes between the Salar de Uyuni and the Atacama Desert (Chile). Driving across the salt flats is a fantastic experience, particularly for the contrast of piercing blue skies and blinding white salt on the flat lake bed. The area’s unusual landscape of mountains, active volcanoes and geysers are like nowhere on earth.

First, we’ll visit the Train Cemetery on the outskirts of Uyuni, and then we’ll go through the Great Salt Flat to Colchani to observe the salt processing plant and salt extraction methods. Later, we’ll visit the Palacio de Sal and Spa Hotel, the first hotel entirely made of salt, before venturing out on to the salt flats of the Salar de Uyuni to Incahuasi Island, better known as Fish Island.

This incredible destination is a great spot for all those perspective bending photographs and Fish Island is populated by giant cacti up to 10 metres high. You will have the opportunity to climb to its highest peak, where you can absorb stunning views of the salt-encrusted lake bed surrounded by golden-hued mountains, snow-capped peaks and an endless azure horizon that will forever engrave itself into your memory.

Lunch will be served before we continue past more dazzling scenery to our accommodation for the evening. The area’s unusual landscape of mountains, active volcanoes, and geysers are like nowhere on earth.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.
Day 33: Salar de Uyuni

After breakfast, we’ll start an amazing day filled with wildlife and spectacular volcanic scenery. The numerous geysers, boiling mud pools, and thermal baths, and the mighty Licancabúr volcano are clear evidence of the region’s association with volcanic activity. Surprisingly, wildlife manages to survive and even thrive in the desolate landscape and you can expect to encounter Vicunas, Llamas and 3 varieties of flamingos which inhabit the many lakes we will pass.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.
Day 34: Salar de Uyuni – San Pedro

It’s an early start this morning with a departure before breakfast for Ojo de Perdiz to visit the Stone Tree and have a dip in the hot springs. After breakfast, we’ll continue on to see the green and white lagoons before arriving at the Chilean border. This is the end of our spectacular journey through the Salt Lakes of Bolivia and after crossing the Chilean border, a coach will take you to the town of San Pedro de Atacama.

Breakfast included.
Day 35: San Pedro: Valley of the moon tour

The morning will be at your leisure to explore San Pedro, an unusually colourful village located 2440 metres above sea level in the middle of a green oasis.

In the afternoon you will be taken into the mystifying Moon Valley, with its tiny but beautiful salt ponds and the backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes. At sunset, you can see how the light intensifies the impression of this moonscape. We will climb a sand dune to watch this spectacle before returning to your hotel.

Breakfast included.
Day 36: San Pedro to Santiago

Today you will be free to explore San Pedro and its surrounding area at leisure before we transfer you to the airport in Calama for your departure flight.

On arrival at Santiago airport you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

Breakfast included.
Day 37: Santiago departure
Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Santiago airport for your departure flight.

Breakfast included.
Departs - Daily

Suggested Hotels

City	Comfort	Superior	Deluxe
Santiago	Meridiano Sur Petit Hotel	Luciano K	Lastarria Boutique
Torres del Paine	Eco Camp	Eco Camp (suite dome)	Eco Camp (suite dome)
El Calafate	Hosteria Sierra Nevada	Alto Calafate	Posada Los Alamos
Rio	Hotel Windsor California	Porto Bay Hotel Copacabana	Miramar Hotel by Windsor
Pantanal	Posada Rio Mutum	Posada Rio Mutum	Posada Rio Mutum
Iguazu	Jardin del Iguazu	Falls Iguazu Hotel & Spa	Loi Suites
Buenos Aires	Patios de San Telmo	Eurobuilding	Hotel Madero
Lima	Los Girasoles	Casa Andina Select Miraflores	Courtyard by Marriott Hotel
Amazon	Posada Amazonas	Posada Amazonas	Reserva Amazonica
Cusco	Maytaq Wasin Boutique	Antiqua hotel	Aranwa Cusco Hotel
Machu Picchu	Waman Hotel	El Mapi by Inkaterra	Sumaq Hotel
Puno	Intiqa Hotel	Jose Antonio	Libertador Hotel
La Paz	Hostal Naira	Hotel Rosario	Camino Real Aparthotel
Uyuni (Tahua)	Basic Guesthouse	Basic Guesthouse	Tayka de Sal
Uyuni (Ojo de Perdiz)	Basic Guesthouse	Basic Guesthouse	Tayka Hotel del Desierto
San Pedro	Casa Don Tomas	Hotel Altiplanico	Alto Atacama

What's included
- Accommodation with private facilities (in Patagonia and Uyuni facilities will depend on the category chosen),
- Internal Airfares
- Hotel taxes
- Entrance fees
- Tours with English speaking guides
- Transfers
- Meals as specified
What's not included
- International airfares to/from South America,
- Airport entrance/departure taxes,
- Passport, visa, and immigration fees
- Entrance fees in Uyuni are not included and cost approx US$30 per person. Additional hotel nights
- Travel Protection Plan
- Gratuities
- Any items not mentioned as included
Notes

Hotel rates are based on lead-in rooms. Other room types and hotels are available. Rates are subject to change and different rates may apply during holiday seasons and special events.

*Please note that whilst this itinerary can be operated all year round, Torres del Paine and El Calafate can experience very cold temperatures between June and September. It’s still a very nice time to travel there however the itinerary may need to be modified. Alternatively we would suggest substituting these days for a trip through the Lakes District.

**During the period December - May parts of the Salar de Uyuni (Uyuni Salt flats) may be covered with water. It's still possible to do the trip however itinerary changes may be necessary.

***Internal airfare prices are based on your arrival into South America being with LAN Airlines. Supplements may apply if you arrive with another airline.

Lan, Air New Zealand, Qantas

Itinerary Highlights

Itinerary in brief

Tailor-made suggestions for this itinerary

Day 1: Santiago arrival

Day 2: Exclusive Santiago Tour

Day 3: Valparaiso, Vina Del Mar & the Vineyards

Day 4: Santiago – Punta Arenas – Torres del Paine

Day 5 & 6: Torres del Paine

Day 7: Torres del Paine – El Calafate

Day 8: Perito Moreno Glacier & Nautical Safari

Day 9: El Calafate –Buenos Aires

Day 10: Buenos Aires - Centro, San Telmo & Boca half day tour. Evening Tango show.

Day 11: Buenos Aires - Recoleta & Palermo half day tour

Day 12: Buenos Aires to Iguazu

Day 13: Argentinean falls tour

Day 14: Iguazu – The Pantanal

Day 15: Pantanal – Pousada do Rio Mutum

Day 16: Pantanal – Pousada do Rio Mutum

Day 17: Pantanal – Rio de Janeiro

Day 18: Corcovado ‘Christ the Redeemer’ tour & Santa Teresa

Day 19: Sugarloaf Mountain tour

Day 20: Rio - Lima

Day 21: Exclusive Lima Tour

Day 22: Lima - The Amazon

Day 23: The Amazon

Day 24: Puerto Maldonado - Cusco

Day 25: Cusco City Tour

Day 26: Cusco - Sacred Valley – Aguas Calientes

Day 27: Machu Picchu

Day 28: Cusco - Puno

Day 29: Uros & Taquile Island

Day 30: Puno – La Paz

Day 31: La Paz city tour

Day 32: La Paz – Uyuni

Day 33: Salar de Uyuni

Day 34: Salar de Uyuni – San Pedro

Day 35: San Pedro: Valley of the moon tour

Day 36: San Pedro to Santiago

Day 37: Santiago departure

Departs - Daily

Suggested Hotels

City

Comfort

Superior

Deluxe

Santiago

Torres del Paine

El Calafate

Rio

Pantanal

Iguazu

Buenos Aires

Lima

Amazon

Cusco

Machu Picchu

Puno

La Paz

Uyuni (Tahua)

Uyuni (Ojo de Perdiz)

San Pedro

What's included

What's not included

Notes

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