South American Explorer

Welcome to South America! Consisting of 13 countries, it is the fourth largest continent and home to some of the world's most recognisable UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites. This evening we arrive in Lima, the capital of Peru. The city was founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro. It is now a mix of modern shopping malls, high rise buildings, large urban sprawl and beautiful colonial architecture. As Lima was the seat of Spanish rule for some 300 years, it offers wonderful churches, cloisters and monasteries. Meet your fellow travellers this evening over a welcome drink in the hotel.

Adventure awaits as we fly to Puerto Maldonado, a city with a laid-back ambience and a sweltering climate. Puerto Maldonado is also known as the gateway to the southern Amazon Jungle, an incredibly diverse ecosystem filled with rivers, lakes, rainforest and incredible native wildlife.

Think monkeys, otters, parrots and caiman! Upon our arrival, we'll cruise along the Madre de Dios River to our jungle accommodation for the next three nights. We'll then take an informative walk for our first experience in the jungle, followed by a twilight boat trip to see if we can spot the caiman that live along the riverbank. Tonight, we'll enjoy a group welcome dinner.

Challenging Day: Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

We venture into Tambopata Candamo National Reserve this morning and hike through the jungle to Lake Sandoval. Here we'll head out by canoe in search of the endangered giant river otter, red howler monkey and blue and yellow macaw. We return to the lodge for lunch before taking a motorised canoe to the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway Interpretation Centre. Here we learn about its construction and the Inkaterra Asociación's conservation projects.

We'll cross the seven hanging bridges connecting the treetops and enjoy the breathtaking vistas. Keep an eye out for the white-throated toucans, woodpeckers, trogons, squirrel monkeys and the three-toed sloth. We then descend to the forest floor and cross the wooden bridge over the swamps, learning about the flora and fauna of this flooded ecosystem. This evening we'll discover another side of the rainforest on a nocturnal walk, before returning to the lodge for dinner.

Challenging Day: Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

After an early breakfast we go on excursion to a native farm. We'll learn about their cultivation techniques and taste some of the local products. This is followed by a trip to the botanical gardens, where we'll discover the variety of medicinal plants that are considered part of the ‘natural pharmacy' of the region.

We return to the lodge for lunch and some time to relax. Later this afternoon we enjoy a Cocha water excursion in a dugout canoe. Why not try your hand at some native fishing using the ‘catch and release' techniques? Or sit back and relax, enjoying the scenery and observing the many birds. Tonight, we'll be able to see different species going about their nightly routines by participating in the inland collpa excursion.

This morning we visit the butterfly house in Puerto Maldonado before transferring to the airport for our flight to Cusco, the Inca capital of ancient times. High up in the Andes Mountains, Cusco is also known as the gateway to both the Sacred Valley and the world-famous site of Machu Picchu. On arrival we are transferred to our hotel and will be greeted with some coca tea to help us acclimatise to the altitude.

Later, we'll take a walk to Plaza de Armas, Cusco's main square. The plaza features wide stone pathways, colourful gardens and is home to the city's iconic buildings; the Cusco Cathedral and Church La Compañía de Jesús. This evening, we'll enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant.

Our first stop for the day is the San Pedro Market - a huge, open-air market with an eclectic variety of produce and interesting wares for sale. This is a great stop for freshly squeezed juices and beautiful pastries, or maybe you'd like to try the local delicacies of roasted guinea pig or soup with a jawbone garnish.

We'll then explore the fascinating fortress of Sacsayhuaman, one of the best-known Inca ruins in the Cusco vicinity before visiting the religious complex of Qoricancha, which contains the Temple of the Sun. It served as the main astronomical observatory for the Incas and was considered home by 4,000 priests and their attendants. Later we tour the 17th-century Cusco Cathedral – the façade of which is a fine example of colonial baroque architecture.

Special Experience: Learn how to make the deliciously sweet and sour cocktail, Pisco Sour. For decades it has been regarded as the signature drink of Peru.

It's a short trip this morning into the famed Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Urubamba Valley, as it is also known, encompasses the heartland of the Inca Empire. The valley was formed by the Urubamba River and contains numerous archaeological remains and villages. It was valued by the Incas due to its special geographical and climatic qualities and was one of the empire's main points for the extraction of natural wealth.

We first stop at the village of Awanacancha, where we'll meet native weavers and see the South American camelid species – llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicuñas. We'll then continue onwards to the lively Pisac markets, well known for its handicrafts, followed by the Inkariy Museum, which showcases pre-Hispanic Peruvian cultures. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Today begins with a visit to the ancient Inca village of Ollantaytambo, one of the best surviving examples of Inca city planning. We'll climb the steep stone staircase to enter the fascinating Incan ruins that form an impressive fortress. The next stop is the Seminario pottery workshop in Urubamba which contextualises styles and techniques used in Peru's ancient cultures.

Special Experience: Enjoy an Andean brunch, with traditional chicha and cuy, a regional delicacy of guinea pig. Finally, we will explore the amazing salt ponds at Maras, which have been harvested since the days of the Incan Empire.

A magical day ahead. This morning we take an early Vistadome train ride through the Urubamba Valley to the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu! On arrival in Aguas Calientes we check into our hotel before taking a local bus up the mountain to the entrance. Our guide will give us an in-depth introduction and description of the site and we'll also have the opportunity to explore the ruins at our own pace afterwards.

Alternatively, if you have chosen to undertake the optional Inca Trail (must have been pre-booked at time of tour booking), you will have an early start, taking a train to the ‘Km 104' station where your trek commences. For those on the trek, the first site along the way is the incredible archaeological complex of Chachabamba. From here the trail ascends for 8 kilometres. At approximately the 4 hour mark we arrive at the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna built into the steep countryside.

As we continue, we'll enjoy magnificent views of the Urubamba River valley and the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex. We continue along a trail of flat stones on the edges of cliffs in highland jungle for another hour or so, until we arrive at the picturesque Sun Gate of Inti Punku - a wonderful photo opportunity. The trek ends in the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu. Our guide will take us through this mind-blowing site, pointing out the most important parts of the ancient civilisation.

Challenging Day: Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

This morning is at leisure. You have the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit to enjoy the beauty of this ancient phenomenon, before the crowds arrive. We'll then return to Ollantaytambo via the Vistadome train. On our way to Cusco, we'll stop at Chinchero and visit the temple, which is built on the Inca walls of the Inca Tupac Yupanqui Palace. The temple is made up of Inca stone structures, which were used as foundations for colonial construction and shaped its design.

Optional Excursion: Machu Picchu 2nd visit & Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) - Your tour already includes one visit to Machu Picchu; however, you may wish to take a second visit to explore this phenomenon further. Alternatively, you may wish to also incorporate a climb up to Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) (considered to provide the best view over Machu Picchu). Please note both options include entry into Machu Picchu and transportation (guide not included). If you choose the Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) option, entry to the peak is also included. Half day Machu Picchu only - from $90pp US. Half day Machu Picchu incl. Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) – from $104pp US.

Please Note: You must purchase your entrance ticket in advance. This will be done by our local operator. Please advise your travel specialist if you would like to include a second visit. Entrance tickets are limited and by shifts. These usually sell out well in advance. Current shifts for entry in the morning are hourly beginning at 6.00am. Your entry time is located in the top left corner of the ticket and you have a maximum of 60 minutes after that time to arrive at the entrance for check in. If possible, we recommend booking an earlier time slot.

Only the tickets that specify “llaqta de Machupicchu” allows you to choose one of the three established circuits around the site. The ticket that includes Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) mountain only allows you to visit circuit 4. The circuits, visitor regulations and other relevant information for your visit are available at http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe

For those clients who have chosen the optional Inca Trail trek, a second visit to Machu Picchu is included in the cost of your trekking permit. This allows trekkers who wish to do so, to visit circuit 5 at no additional cost. However, this included second visit does not include the cost of transportation to and from the ruins as not all trekkers will choose to return the following day. The cost of the return buses to the ruin site is $28pp US and this needs to be paid locally. Your tour guide will assist you in obtaining these tickets.

Enjoy a day at leisure in colourful Cusco. Full of plazas, archaeological ruins and interesting craft shops, it's a great place to explore and experience on your own. Why not check out the Casa Concha Museum, containing artefacts from Machu Picchu that were found by Hiram Bingham and recently returned by Yale University?

Today we travel through the majestic Andean Mountains to Puno, located on the shore of Lake Titicaca - the world's highest navigable lake, fed by 25 rivers! Along the way, we'll stop at the Raqchi Ruins – an Inca archaeological site. The complex has many buildings and structures, with the most prominent being the Temple of Wiracocha. This large structure reaches 92 metres tall and is said to have been built to appease Wiracocha, the ‘creator god'. We'll then stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Puno.

This morning we visit an Indian community on the floating Uros Islands. What makes the Uros Islands so unique is the material used to create them - reeds that are found in Lake Titicaca are used for the foundation. They are bound and connected by ropes, then anchored by logs which go deep into the bottom of the lakebed.

The main activities of the people who live here are fishing, weaving and handicrafts, which are then sold to visitors. Later we discover Taquile Island - famous for its craft production and beautiful textiles. The island is narrow, at approximately 1 kilometre wide and between 6-7 kilometres long. There are numerous pre-Inca and Inca ruins, as well as Inca terracing on the island to explore.

After breakfast we make our way to the town of Chivay, home to the Colca Canyon - the world's deepest canyon at twice the depth of the Grand Canyon. Along the way we'll pass through the villages of Patapampa, Chucura, Toccra, Vizcachani and Patahuasi (Chinito). Enjoy the incredible scenery created by the valley's many magnificent volcanoes as we travel through.

An early start this morning to reach the Cross of the Condor, the deepest point of the Colca Canyon. It is here the majestic Andean condor can be seen cruising over the morning thermals.

Special Experience: Spend time observing the majestic Andean condor in flight over the canyon – a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We'll then explore the villages of Yanque, Achoma, Maca and Pinohollo. On our way to Arequipa, we stop at Antahuilque to observe the importance of the balconies and mountain terraces.

We also visit Choquetico and view the remains of the hanging tombs.

A popular spot for tourists, Arequipa, the 'white city', has something for everyone. In fact, Arequipa is Peru's second largest city and its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Highlights of this morning's city tour include a visit to the Convent of Santa Catalina, the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral (outside only), Church of La Compañía and the Carmen Alto viewpoint, for a stunning view of the surrounding volcanic landscape. The afternoon is at leisure for you to relax or explore at your own pace. Why not visit the Museo Santuarios to see Juanita the Ice Maiden, a well-preserved mummy of a young girl who lived over 500 years ago in the Andes Mountains of Peru? Tonight, we'll enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant.

This morning we fly back to Lima, Peru's capital. The city has world-class food, an incredible nightlife and mesmerising colonial-style architecture. We'll begin exploring Lima during a half day city tour. Highlights include the Cathedral, the San Francisco Convent and the Larco Museum. The afternoon is at leisure for you to rest and relax or explore at your own pace. Tonight, we'll enjoy a group dinner at Huaca Pucllana to farewell Peru.

We bid farewell to Peru this morning as we make our way to Brazil. We transfer to Lima airport for our flight to vibrant Rio de Janeiro, the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvellous City). Situated amongst lush, forest-covered mountains and breathtaking beaches, Rio is one of the world's most lively and beautiful cities.

Today we discover the icons of Rio. The Statue of Christ the Redeemer is one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World' and is situated at the peak of the 700-metre-high Corcovado Hill. We arrive at the bottom of the hill and board the red, narrow-gauge train to climb the mountain through the Tijuca Forest, up to the statue. The historic railway is almost one hundred years old and Brazil's oldest tourist excursion. There will be many fantastic photo opportunities here.

Later we’ll visit Sugar Loaf Mountain to enjoy amazing panoramic views over the whole city. Sugar Loaf Mountain’s name is said to have stemmed from when blocks of sugar (or sugar loaves) were placed in conical moulds made of clay to be transported on ships. The shape made by these moulds was similar to the peak, hence the name.

Our touring will also include a stop at the Selaron Steps, one of Rio’s most striking and well known landmarks. Created by Chilean artist Jorge Selaron, this is one of Brazil’s most famous pieces of street art with the steps decorated with more than 2000 tiles in the colours of the Brazilian flag.

Experience the artistry of Carnival, marvelling at the spectacle of more than 6000 costumes and even dressing up in one, while enjoying music and a delicious drink.

Optional Excursion: Jeep Tour Old Rio and Santa Teresa - This tour starts in the historical centre of Rio de Janeiro. The architecture of Praça XV, Arco dos Teles, the França-Brasil House (Old Alfândega), the São Bento Monastery, and the Lapa Arches are prime examples of buildings from the Colonial era. The Banco do Brasil Cultural Museum, Municipal Theatre, Museum of Fine Arts and the Public National Library are examples of architecture from the Imperial era.

Next stop on the tour is the neighbourhood of Santa Teresa. This traditional neighbourhood of Rio de Janeiro is home to mansions from the beginning of the 20th century, built mainly by the English who sought out this region for its mild climate. Nowadays, it's a hotspot for artists and eccentrics. The antique cable car still runs through the narrow streets as the main form of collective transportation. Includes transportation on a seat-in-coach basis. 4 hours – from $51pp US.

Optional Excursion: Art and Graffiti Tour - This guided walking tour traces the route of open-air artwork located in some of Rio's oldest neighbourhoods, from the original settlement of Praça XV to the recently renovated Porto Maravilha. This area's historical importance can be told by its monuments, statues, art installations, murals, and graffiti. Candelária Church, the Olympic Pyre, Maua Square and Rio's Art Museum (MAR) are some of the highlights in this 4km walk. The amount of walking can be established by your interests and conditions. Most museums close on Monday in Rio. Entrance in any of the sites can be included for an added cost. Includes driver and guide. 4 hours – from $102pp US.

Today we fly to Iguazu Falls! Straddling the borders of Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu Falls is one of the world's biggest waterfalls with a total of more than 240 individual falls, surrounded by lush rainforest. They are more than 3 kilometres wide and 80 metres high, making them wider than Victoria Falls and higher than Niagara Falls.

After our arrival, we'll see the Brazilian side of the falls and travel the canyon path, discovering the panoramic views over San Martin Island. We will get wet, so bring a spray jacket! Our next destination is Parque das Aves Bird Park, set in 12 acres of beautiful rainforest and home to more than 150 species of birds, including colourful macaws, toucans and flamingos.

Optional Excursion: Helicopter Tour - (min 2/max 4 participants per helicopter) - Departure is from the entrance of the Iguazu National Park (Brazilian side) and can be taken when doing the Brazilian Falls tour. Please advise your guide if you are interested in this tour. 10 minutes – from $186pp US.

We’ll spend today exploring the Argentinian side of this natural masterpiece. A small train takes us into Iguazu National Park and we continue on foot to the falls. We’ll explore the numerous walkways as well as the viewing platforms that offer great views of the falls. Be sure to keep an eye out for a variety of fauna and flora that make this National Park home.

Today we fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina - the 'Paris of the South'. With European charm, gourmet cuisine, plenty of shopping, colonial architecture and grand parks, Buenos Aires is a delight for the senses. It's also the cultural capital of South America.

This morning we enjoy a city tour of Buenos Aires, including the main square - Plaza de Mayo, known for La Casa Rosada, 'the Pink House' and office to the President of Argentina. We'll also walk through the famed Recoleta Cemetery where Eva Peron was laid to rest and visit the vibrant neighbourhood of La Boca.

Special Experience: Visit the stunning Colon Theatre. The main opera house in Buenos Aires, it is ranked as the world's third best. Our final stop for the day takes us to the exquisite El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore. Recognised by National Geographic in 2019 as the most beautiful bookstore in the world, this historic building was once a palatial theatre that has since been meticulously transformed into an opulent haven for lovers of literature.

Enjoy a day at leisure to relax or explore. You may choose to hit the shops of Calle Florida and the Palermo districts or explore the city's wealth of museums and art galleries, either way there is a lot to see! This evening we'll experience a lively tango dinner show - an absolute must while you are in Argentina. Don't forget your dancing shoes - we'll participate in a tango lesson too.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories as we begin our journey home.