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South American Explorer (Inti Raymi Festival)

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Flights Included Fully Guided Small Group
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 Trip Length
28 Days
 Trip Starts
Lima
 Trip Finishes
Buenos Aires
28 Day South American Explorer (Inti Raymi Festival) Itinerary (Bunnik Tours)
Countries Explored: Peru, Argentina, Brazil
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star
Max. Group Size
20
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
BUN207

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Bunnik Tours 28 Day South American Explorer (Inti Raymi Festival). Explore the incredible wonders of South America during this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Discover the delights of Peru, from the diverse Amazon Jungle to the Sacred Valley and mesmerizing Machu Picchu. Venture into Argentina and Brazil and see the spectacular Iguazu Falls. Experience the incredible highlights of Rio and Buenos Aires, two cosmopolitan cities bursting with life and colour. Return international flights are included between Australia and the start & end point of your trip....read more Surcharges may apply.

Itinerary

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 sites. This evening we arrive in Lima, the capital of Peru. The city was founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, and 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.

As Peru's largest city, Lima is steeped in history, gloriously messy and full of aesthetic delights. 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 welcome dinner at Huaca Pucllana. (B/D)

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. Following lunch, we'll 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. (B/L/D)

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 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 7 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 and some relaxation time. (B/L/D)

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. (B/L/D)

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 are 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 Casa Qoricancha Restaurant. (B/D)

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. (B)

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, and the Inkariy Museum, which showcases pre-Hispanic Peruvian cultures. (B)

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. (B)

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 eco-resort 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. (B/D)

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. (B)

A truly spectacular day lies ahead of us. We'll witness the colour and pageantry of Inti Raymi, the ‘Festival of the Sun'. Inti Raymi is a religious ceremony of the Inca Empire in honour of the sun god, Inti, one of the most venerated deities in Inca religion. It was the celebration of the Winter Solstice – the shortest day of the year in terms of time between sunrise and sunset, and the Inca New Year. Fearing the lack of sun and ensuing famine, the ancient Incas gathered in Cusco to honour Inti and please him for his return. The centrepiece of celebrations for this festival takes place today – the actual day of Inti Raymi. It begins at the Qoricancha, where the Sapa Inca calls on the blessings from the sun. The Sapa is then carried on a golden throne in a procession to Sacsayhuaman. They walk along the colourful streets filled with flowers, to music, prayers and dancing. A sacrificial ceremony occurs (now a stage act however) in honour of Pachamama, to ensure the fertility of the earth, which, in combination with light and warmth from the sun, provides a bountiful crop. As dusk falls, straw stacks are set on fire and the celebrants dance around them to honour Tawantinsuty (the Empire of the Four Wind Directions). The ceremony ends with a procession back to Cusco and a new Inca year has begun! (B)

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. (B/L)

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. (B/L)

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. (B/D)

An early start this morning to reach the Cross of the Condor. Special Experience: The Cross of the Condor is the deepest point of the Colca Canyon. It is where the majestic Andean condor can be seen cruising over the morning thermals. Watching this amazing bird in flight is 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.

Tonight, we'll enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant. (B/L/D)

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. Transferring to the airport later today, we return to Lima for the night. (B)

We bid farewell to Peru this morning and transfer to the 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. (B)

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 and take us up to the statue. The historic railway is almost one hundred years old and Brazil's oldest tourist excursion. There will be so many fantastic photo opportunities here. We'll also 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 (sugar loaves) were placed in conical moulds made of clay to be transported on ships. The shape given by these moulds was similar to the peak, hence the name. (B)

This morning we'll visit Museu Do Amanhã, which translates to the Museum of Tomorrow. This science museum was designed by Spanish neofuturistic architect, Santiago Calatrava on the waterfront at Pier Maua. We'll enjoy some time to explore the different exhibits, which focus on sustainable cities and an ecological world. This afternoon is at leisure to relax or explore some more at our own pace. You may wish to visit the beautiful botanical gardens or simply stroll along Copacabana Beach, watching the world go by. We'll enjoy a group dinner this evening at Fogo de Chao. (B/D)

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. The waterfalls are 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. This afternoon there is the option to take a helicopter flight over the falls. This can be organised locally through your guide and is at your own expense. (B)

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 stand on a platform suspended over the thundering Devil's Throat - the largest of the waterfalls, to feel (and hear) the water's power. Warning: you will get wet! (B)

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. (B)

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. The afternoon is at leisure for you to explore on your own or rest and relax. (B)

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 lots 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. (B/D)

Today marks the end of our South American adventure. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! (B)

Trip Inclusions

Discover the wonders of Peru

  • Discover the sights of Lima on a city tour and visit the famous Larco Museum, containing priceless Incan artefacts
  • Explore the Amazon Jungle from Puerto Maldonado
  • Visit beautiful Lake Sandoval and Tambopata Candamo National Reserve, home to parrots, caiman and the endangered giant river otter.
  • Take a walking tour of Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, enjoying dinner at Casa Qoricancha
  • Explore the San Pedro Market and the ancient Incan fortress of Sacsayhuaman in Cusco
  • Visit Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun and the 17th century cathedral
  • Take part in a class where we learn to make a Pisco Sour
  • Travel into the magical Sacred Valley and visit the village Awanacancha to see the local way of life
  • Stop in the small town of Pisac and explore the lively market
  • Visit the Inkariy Museum
  • Tour the town and fortress ruins of Ollantaytambo
  • Be welcomed into a local home and gain insight into daily life
  • Visit a local chicheria and try some of the local delicacy, guinea pig
  • Explore the patchwork of the salt pans at Maras and visit the Seminario pottery workshop in Urubamba
  • Travel by Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes, gateway to Machu Picchu!
  • Feel the magic of the Lost Incan City of Machu Picchu on an in-depth, guided tour and explore the ruins at your own pace
  • Spend the night in a nature retreat in Aguas Calientes
  • Travel by Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo. Continue to Cusco by road, stopping at Chinchero to visit the temple
  • Experience the Inti Raymi Festival
  • Marvel at the scenery while travelling through the High Andes Mountains to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca
  • Cruise to the incredible floating reed Uros Islands. Then visit Taquile Island and learn about the local traditions of the island’s inhabitants
  • Travel via local villages to the incredible Colca Canyon
  • Visit the Cross of the Condor and watch the majestic Andean condors as they cruise over the morning thermals
  • Stroll through the villages of Yanque, Achoma, Maca and Pinohollo and stop at the mountain terraces of Antahuilque
  • Discover the "white city" of Arequipa and its beautiful buildings built from volcanic stone

Experience the excitement of Rio and feel the thunder of Iguazu Falls

  • Spend 3 nights in Rio de Janeiro staying in the heart of Copacabana Beach
  • Tour the iconic sights of Rio including the Statue of Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain and Corcovado Hill
  • Visit Museu Do Amanhã
  • Enjoy a traditional Brazilian churrasco grill dinner at Fogo de Chao
  • Spend 2 nights at the Hotel Gran Melia Iguazu inside Iguazu Falls National Park, with the amazing waterfalls right on your doorstep
  • Visit the thunderous Iguazu Falls! Explore both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides, including the famous Devil's Throat
  • Get up close and personal with stunning, exotic birds at the Parque das Aves Bird Park

Dance the night away in grand Buenos Aires

  • Discover the grand city of Buenos Aires on a city tour, including a visit to the stunning Colon Theatre
  • Experience Argentina's famous Tango at a dinner show and lesson in Buenos Aires

  • Return economy-class flights from Australia to South America. Taxes included
  • 6 economy-class flights within South America
  • Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
  • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
  • Tipping Made Easy, $390pp pre-paid

  • 19 nights in 3-5 star hotels
  • 3 nights in an Amazon Jungle Lodge near Puerto Maldonado
  • 1 night stay at the 5 star Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
  • 2 night stay inside Iguazu Falls National Park at the 5 star Hotel Gran Melia Iguazu
  • 25 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 10 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners

  • English-speaking locally based tour director (based on minimum of 8 passengers)
  • English-speaking locally based guides

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Disruptions to itinerary may occur.
  • Inca Trail Permit: $595pp - Minimum and maximum numbers may apply. Solo supplementary pricing applies. This option must be pre-booked. Not available in February. Good physical fitness is required for this high-altitude trek.
  • Due to luggage restrictions, on day 2 you will need to pack a small bag only for your three night stay in the Amazon Jungle. Your remaining luggage will be stored in Puerto Maldonado until your return. Electricity is at a premium in the Amazon and you may only have access to power for a couple of hours a day. If you require a battery at night for medical reasons the lodge hotel can provide this but there may be an additional small charge for this service.
  • On day 9 you will need to pack an overnight bag (maximum of 5 kilograms per bag) for your overnight stay in Machu Picchu. Due to limited space on the trains you are unable to take your main suitcase, it will however, be transferred to the hotel in Cusco so it is there for when you arrive. We suggest you bring an umbrella, spray jacket and strong insect repellent with you. Our accommodation will also have its own hot springs, so you may also like to bring your swimwear.
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Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Bunnik Tours. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Bunnik Tours. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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