1 Depart Australia - Arrive Lima
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. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, Lima was designed to be a showcase of Spanish colonial architecture in a conquered territory. Today, the patchwork of Lima's vibrant city life and neighbourhoods combine with a plethora of museums and churches to offer visitors a fascinating heritage to discover.
2 Lima - Guayaquil - Guamote
We travel to Guamote this morning after a short flight from Lima to Guayaquil. Our guide will meet us on arrival and take us to Guamote, home to brightly painted buildings and a proud indigenous community. We check in to the Inti Sisa guesthouse, a community run project that works to support the local area. This evening we'll enjoy a group welcome dinner at our guesthouse. (B/D)
3 Guamote – Alausi - Guamote
Get set to board the world-famous Devil's Nose train today for one of Ecuador's best rail journeys. First up this morning, we travel to the town of Alausi to board our train. We zigzag down the Andes on the steepest descent of any section of railroad track in the world, through some spectacular scenery by use of switchbacks - the train travels forwards past a junction, then reverses down past the next junction and the cycle continues. Once we reach the bottom, you will be welcomed with a traditional dance performance before some free time to visit the small interpretation centre and to enjoy the view before taking the train back to Alausi. This afternoon we arrive back in Guamote for our evening meal together at the Inti Sisa guesthouse. (B/D)
4 Guamote - Baños
Our final morning in the township of Guamote is off to an early start as we visit the vibrant Guamote Market - one of the most authentic markets in Ecuador, taking place every Thursday, and a real highlight. Hundreds of ‘campesinos' come to this market in their colourful traditional dress to buy and sell their wares. Special Experience: Enjoy a cultural exchange in Inti Sisa's educational centre, learning more about the support it brings to the local community in the form of workshops and classes. After this exchange we travel along 'The Avenue of the Volcanoes' to view the snow-capped peaks of Chimborazo National Park. At the foot of the volcano we meet with the local Palacio Real community to learn all about llamas. Lunch is also included and, for those with an adventurous palate, llama meat will be on the menu.
After lunch we continue to the sub-tropical town of Baños, the adventure capital of Ecuador, located in the foothills of the active Tungurahua Volcano. Tourists and locals alike visit to go hiking, rafting, biking and much more. (B/L)
5 Baños
Our chiva awaits us this morning! This colourful local open-air bus carries us into the upper basin of the Amazon rainforest. Here we take a short hike to the Devil's Cauldron waterfall (Pailon de Diablo) and the impressive Pastaza River gorge. Whilst here you have the opportunity to cross the deep gorge in a scenic cable car for spectacular views over the surrounding area. We'll enjoy lunch on our return to Baños. In Baños the rest of our day is at leisure. The township is full of streets lined with restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. Make sure to watch the locals stretching toffee from wooden pegs in their shopfronts – it's a traditional specialty. The town is also home to thermal springs - in fact it was named after them – and we can bathe and relax with the locals for just a few dollars. Later at night there is even an opportunity for salsa. (B/L)
6 Baños - Otavalo
We depart Baños and travel to the town of Otavalo, located in a valley surrounded by the peaks of the Imbabura, Cotacachi and Mojanda volcanoes. Traditionally an area made up of farming communities, Otavalo now focuses on making handicrafts and is famous for its textile weaving. We pay a visit to the bustling, indigenous markets on La Plaza de Ponchos, the Otavalo Handicraft Market. These markets are one of the best artisan markets in South America where you can find traditional handmade souvenirs such as jewellery, hammocks, blankets and ponchos. This afternoon we check in to our beautiful hacienda accommodation which was used by General Simon Bolivar during journeys between Ecuador and Colombia for his military and political campaigns. This evening we enjoy dinner in the hacienda's dining room. (B/D)
7 Otavalo
This morning we travel to Ibarra and board the Libertad Train to experience one of the most beautiful train rides in all of Ecuador. Travelling from the Andean Mountains down through to the cloud forest and sub-tropical landscape of Salinas, we are spoilt with mountain tunnels, bridges over steep ravines, and lush highland scenery. Our coach and driver will be waiting for us in Salinas as we continue our journey to the town of Cotacachi. The local community specialises in crafting high-quality leather goods including purses, jackets, and leather belts. Our next stop is Cuicocha Lake, a stunning lagoon situated at the Cotacachi Volcano. The island in the middle of this lake is said to look like a guinea pig, hence the name Cuicocha which in the Kichwa indigenous language means ‘Guinea Pig Lake'. (B)
8 Otavalo - Papallacta
Magnificent volcanoes surround us as we travel through the Andes to Papallacta today. We visit La Compañía Rose Plantation for a late morning tea and a tour of its historic hacienda. Built in a French Republic-style the hacienda dates back to 1919 and has remained in the same family for five generations. The rose showroom houses an amazing display of roses of all colours and varieties, many of which are exported around the world. The scenic drive continues to Papallacta. Perched at 3,300 metres on a high Andean valley, Papallacta is located at the entrance to the Ecuadorian Amazon jungle and boasts the best hot springs in the country. The remainder of the day can be spent enjoying the hot springs at our hotel or indulging in some luxurious spa treatments. (B)
9 Papallacta - Quito
Enjoy a relaxing morning at leisure to make the most of the hot springs before we depart for Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Quito is located high in the Andes Mountains at an elevation of 2,800 metres. Nestled in a spectacular valley and surrounded by snow-capped volcanic peaks, Quito also claims a UNESCO World Heritage status for its Old Town. This wonderful part of the city, with some of its buildings dating back to the mid-1500s when the Spanish founded the city, has been carefully restored. It holds fascinating history and beauty with vintage facades lining the streets, and large, open plazas lying adjacent to cathedrals and stately public buildings. (B)
10 Quito - Lima
Explore the lively city of Quito today with our guide on a sightseeing tour. We begin with a visit to Independence Square and the beautiful Church of the Society of Jesus, or La Compañía de Jesús, almost entirely decorated with gold leaf. We'll also see the San Francisco Monastery, admire the view of the city from the top of 'El Panecillo' and stop at the 'Middle of the World', or Mitad del Mundo, and the Inti Ñan museum. It is here that the equator passes through Ecuador and you can actually stand with one foot in each hemisphere. In the afternoon we bid farewell to Ecuador and transfer to the airport for our onward flight to Lima, Peru. (B)
11 Lima – Amazon Jungle
This morning we board our flight to Iquitos, gateway to the Peruvian rainforest located right on the Amazon River. Upon arrival we take a short boat ride with a boxed lunch on board to our jungle lodge. We are welcomed with a tropical drink to enjoy while our guide tells us what is planned for the days ahead. This afternoon we'll head out on the water to try piranha fishing. We'll also see the amazing Victoria Regia water lilies, or Victoria Amazonica, with leaves up to 3 metres in diameter. (B/L/D)
12 Amazon Jungle
The Amazon represents over half of the planet's remaining rainforests, with an incredible depth of biodiversity and covers 40 percent of the South American continent, including nine countries. Today we immerse ourselves in this beautiful nature. Special Experience: Begin the day with a canopy walk through the treetops in the Sucusari Reserve. We also visit a local shaman to learn about the medicinal uses of some of the 240 plant species within the garden. One of the longest treetop walkways in the world, the bridges stretch to over 36 metres high and extend over 500 metres. The walkway is the perfect vantage point to observe the multitude of life in the Amazon treetops, you might even spot paradise tanagers, macaws and lizards, and to see out over the vast canopy of trees in the adjoining reserve of over 390,000 hectares.
We enjoy time at leisure at our lodge before a group dinner this evening. (B/L/D)
13 Amazon Jungle
It's time to learn about local Yagua Indian culture this morning. We travel on the water to Yagua Village, giving us the best chance to catch a glimpse of the endangered pink dolphins of the Amazon River. At the village we'll witness a blow gun demonstration which some of the Yagua elders still use for hunting. This afternoon we'll visit Monkey Island, a private reserve where more than five species of tropical primates including small tamarins, saki, titi and large woolly monkeys are protected. (B/L/D)
14 Amazon Jungle - Cusco
We bid farewell to the Amazon and fly to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital. 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 at our hotel we will be greeted with some coca tea to help us acclimatise to the altitude. (B)
15 Cusco
Today is all about exploring the wonders of Cusco beginning with a visit to the San Pedro Market. Then, it's time for us to discover the magnificent fortress of Sacsayhuaman, believed to have been built during the 1400s. The enormous limestone blocks used in the construction of this colossal structure were carved and fitted with such precision that there was no need for mortar, a testament to the skill of the masons. In the afternoon, a walking tour will take us to the religious complex of Qoricancha, containing the Temple of the Sun, considered to be the most spectacular temple in the Inca Empire. As well as being the main astronomical observatory for the Incas, some 4,000 priests and their attendants once lived within its confines. Looted and then destroyed by the Spanish, they used the foundations for the Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo, creating perhaps the most incongruous imperial-colonial architectural clash in Cusco. After some free time for lunch we'll begin a walking tour of Cusco to 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)
16 Cusco – Sacred Valley
It's a short trip this morning to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Urubamba Valley, as it is also known, encompasses the heartland of the Inca Empire and contains numerous archaeological remains and villages. The valley 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'll first stop at the village of Awanacancha to meet native weavers and see the South American camelid species of llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicuñas. Then, we continue onwards to the lively Pisac markets, well known for its handicrafts, and the Inkariy Museum, which showcases pre-Hispanic Peruvian cultures. (B)
17 Sacred Valley
Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca village and one of the best surviving examples of Inca city planning, is our first point to explore this morning. The ruins form a fortress that can only be entered by a steep stone staircase. We climb these and enter the town's narrow streets for an up-close look at the Inca's dry masonry skill. Their astounding craftsmanship sees that even after centuries of earthquakes, a knife cannot be slipped into the seams between the limestone blocks. Our next stop is the Seminario pottery workshop in Urubamba where we gain insight into the various styles and techniques used by 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 salt ponds of Maras which have been harvested since the days of the Incan Empire. (B)
18 Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu
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)
19 Machu Picchu - Cusco
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)
20 Cusco
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? (B)
21 Cusco – Puno
We depart Cusco early this morning and 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! The Raqchi Ruins, an Inca archaeological site, are a stop along the way. 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. The ingenuity of the local Indian community is set to astound as we next visit the floating Uros Islands. These islands on Lake Titicaca are built on a foundation of reeds, sourced from the lake itself. Bound and connected by ropes, they are then anchored by logs which go deep into the bottom of the lakebed. The people who live here earn a living from fishing, weaving and handicrafts. (B/L)
22 Puno - Lake Titicaca - Puno
Spend the day discovering magnificent Lake Titicaca. This morning we travel from Puno to Copacabana, located on the lake's Bolivian shore, and visit the churches of Pomata and Juli, as well as the Copacabana Cathedral. Special Experience: Speed across the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca to visit the Island of the Moon and the Island of the Sun. On the Island of the Moon we'll visit the Sun Virgin's Temple 'Iñak Uyu' before we continue to the Island of the Sun. Here we'll see the Grand Stairs and the Sacred Fountain, where we will feel the sacred water trickle over our fingers. The water is said to bring eternal youth and happiness. We'll stop for lunch at Uma Kollu, an archaeological restaurant with an authentic Takana (Inca terrace) forming part of the interior wall, before returning to Puno. (B/L)
23 Puno – Lima
Today we fly to Lima, Peru's largest city and its capital. This incredible place is covered in history, gloriously messy and full of aesthetic delights. The city has world-class food, an incredible nightlife and mesmerising colonial-style architecture. (B)
24 Lima
Explore colonial Lima on a half day city tour. Our first stop is the Plaza de Armas, where we see the Government Palace, the House of El Oidor and the stunning City Hall buildings. We take a stroll through the Cathedral of Lima and learn the religious history of Peru. Our walking tour continues to the San Francisco Convent to view both its ‘catacombs', the ancient, underground cemetery of Lima, and the convent's world-renowned library with thousands of antique texts. During our touring we also see the architectural jewels of the Torre Tagle Palace and Osambela House before we reach the Larco Museum. The museum houses one of the most impressive collections of Incan artefacts and gives a fascinating insight into ancient Peru. We'll learn about ancient culture as we visit the Textiles Gallery, the Spaniards' Arrival Gallery, the Sacrifice Ceremony Gallery and the Gold, Silver and Jewels Galleries. The afternoon is at leisure for you to rest and relax or explore at your own pace. Tonight, we'll enjoy a group dinner overlooking the ruins at Huaca Pucllana to farewell Peru. (B/D)
25 Lima – Rio de Janeiro
Smile because it's time to go to Rio de Janeiro. This morning we transfer to the airport for our flight to Rio, the Cidade Maravilhosa or ‘Marvellous City'. Situated amongst lush, forest-covered mountains and breathtaking beaches, Rio is one of the world's most lively and beautiful cities. (B)
26 Rio de Janeiro
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)
27 Rio de Janeiro
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)
28 Rio de Janeiro – Iguazu Falls
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! Special Experience: Get up close and personal with more than 150 species of stunning, exotic birds at the famous Parque das Aves Bird Park. The park is 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)
29 Iguazu Falls
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)
30 Iguazu Falls – Buenos Aires
Today we fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina - the 'Paris of the South'. Buenos Aires is an intriguing mix of grand boulevards and classic European style architecture combined with an irresistible South American vibe. Founded in the 16th century on the shores of the Rio de la Plata, Buenos Aires literally translates to ‘fair winds' and it has grown and flourished since its early beginnings. Now, one of the most visited cities in South America, its most defining characteristic is its many varied neighbourhoods, explore these on foot and take a stroll along the city streets to soak up the colourful atmosphere. (B)
31 Buenos Aires
A bustling city of almost three million people, Buenos Aires is both cosmopolitan and elegant at the same time. Our sightseeing today begins with a city tour, including the widest avenue in the world, the 9 de Julio Avenue, and the Plaza de Mayo and its buildings - Government House and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Next, we walk through the elegant district of Recoleta and the Recoleta Cemetery where Argentina's famous Eva Peron was laid to rest, then on to the Italian district of La Boca and a visit to Caminito Street, a colourful street museum. We then visit the stunning Colon Theatre. The main opera house in Buenos Aires, it is ranked as the world's third best. Our afternoon is at leisure to further explore this fascinating city. (B)
32 Buenos Aires
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! Don't forget your dancing shoes for this evening's farewell tango dinner show, an absolute must while you are in Argentina. Special Experience: Don your dancing shoes for a traditional tango lesson, then enjoy a lively dinner and show. (B/D)
33 Depart Buenos Aires
Today marks the end of our South American adventure. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! (B)
