Overview
Traditional open-fire barbecues and crispy empanadas are sure to satisfy your appetite for the cowboy life throughout this South American journey, while getting your fill of scenic wonder by witnessing both sides of thundering Iguassu Falls and cruising Patagonian fjords beneath the soaring peaks. Your South American vacation wouldn’t be complete without sipping a Pisco sour and drinking in the wonder of Machu Picchu. See the ruins of the Lost City and the Sacred Valley and the cultural uprising of “it” cities Lima and Cusco to top off your vacation.
Itinerary
Welcome to Rio de Janeiro!
At 3:30 pm, meet your Tour Director for a drive along Ipanema and Copacabana beaches to the base of 1,300-foot-high Sugarloaf Mountain. Ascend by cable car to its summit, where you can take in spectacular vistas of the city. Next, toast the start of a memorable vacation with caipirinhas, a traditional Brazilian cocktail, from atop Sugarloaf Mountain during a cocktail party.
LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: A once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits atop Sugarloaf Mountain overlooking Guanabara Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views as you join a private cocktail party with your fellow travel companions. Toast with a traditional caipirinha, Brazil's national cocktail, made with fresh lime, cachaça (a distilled sugarcane spirit), and sugar. Deliciosa!
Heavenly Views
The city's landmark, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, crowns Corcovado Mountain, a rounded peak rising 2,300 feet from the bay below. A scenic ride by cog railway leads to the top, where a breathtaking 360-degree panorama affords sweeping views. From here, proceed to bustling downtown Rio, where modern office towers stand next to relics of the Portuguese colonial past. View the Sambódromo and visit the Cathedral.
The afternoon is at leisure for you to experience this vibrant city on your own. Tonight, it's a fun outing to a churrascaria for a feast of barbecued meats marinated and roasted over charcoal in true Brazilian style. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Soar to the summit of Corcovado Mountain by cog railway to reach the site of the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. This crowning jewel of Rio and Brazil was constructed between 1922 and 1933. The statue of Jesus Christ stands 98 feet high (or 124 feet including the pedestal) with an arm span of 92 feet wide. Towering over the city, this piece of art is truly an engineering marvel and was even voted one the New7Wonders of the World.
Beaches, Boutiques & Bites
A full day at leisure to enjoy Rio. Relax on one of the world-famous beaches or take advantage of the world-class shopping or fine dining. (B)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: Spend free time in Rio de Janeiro with an optional excursion to Petropolis, (mountain resort and former summer palace of Emperor Dom Pedro II). Get local maps and tips for free time on your GlobusGO app.
What a Rush!
A flight from Rio takes you to Iguassu Falls. Experience the clouds of spray, the incessant roar, and the surrounding luxuriant tropical growth that make this an unforgettable natural wonder. Head into Brazil's Iguassu National Park to enjoy the magnificent panorama of waterfalls from the Brazilian side. Your Local Guide introduces the spectacle of this 2-mile-wide rushing torrent. With some cataracts as high as 250 feet, Iguassu Falls is nothing short of hypnotic! (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Explore incredible Iguassu National Park (Brazilian side) and walk the pathways skirting Iguassu Falls. Watch for amazing wildlife in this protected area, including toucans, agoutis, giant otters, anteaters, tapir, and even jaguars!
Taking the Plunge
Today, journey across the Brazilian border by motorcoach to the Argentine side of Iguassu Falls, where you will take the Ecological Jungle Train and enjoy a closer perspective on a walking tour of the falls. Meander along the walkways from atop the falls and enjoy an exhilarating view looking over the precipice of the falls as the water plunges to the rocks below. You will also have the chance to walk through the rainforest on the lower falls trails that will bring you up close to some of the smaller cataracts. Return to the hotel, where the remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Iguassu National Park (Argentinean side) – From this side of the falls you get a bird's-eye view from the catwalks perched over part of the Devil's Throat, where 14 waterfalls drop more than 300 feet into the Devil's Gorge below. A completely different perspective from that of Brazil's side which is why you always need to see both sides of the falls!
The Boulevards of Buenos Aires
This morning, cross the Brazilian border into Argentina by motorcoach to transfer to the Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. After arriving, an orientation walk acquaints you with the “Paris of South America” and its wide boulevards and outdoor cafés. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: Elegant European architecture, epicurean cuisine, and a café culture to rival any rue de Paris, Buenos Aires is a city of leisurely afternoons sipping café con leche or the choicest Argentinian wines.
Dining, Dancing & Dazzling
Your sightseeing starts in La Boca, a vibrant district and site of the city's first port. Take a short walking tour of this unique enclave and then on to San Telmo, famous for its late-colonial buildings and a popular gathering spot for artists. At Plaza de Mayo, see La Casa Rosada (the President's Pink House) and the Metropolitan Cathedral, housing San Martin's Mausoleum. Drive past the ornate Teatro Colón opera house before reaching Recoleta Cemetery, burial site of Eva Perón. Next, learn how to make a traditional Argentinean dish during your empanada cooking class.
After an afternoon at leisure, top off the evening at a famous Tango club. The Tango and Argentina go hand in hand and tonight you will visit a local milonga, or tango house, where professional tango dancers teach the traditional techniques of the Argentine Tango. After your lesson, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Argentine steaks and other local specialties. Top off the evening when the professionals delight you with a Tango Show featuring the dance as it has evolved through the ages! (B/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: Immerse yourself in Argentina's culinary culture when you learn how to make empanadas. This hands-on cooking class teaches you the different fillings and the various 'repulga' techniques (how to close the empanada.) After perfecting your creation, enjoy your homemade empanada and a glass of Malbec.
Ranch Life
Today, head into the heart of the pampas (grasslands) and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of rural, country life at a working Argentina estancia (ranch). After a traditional welcome with empanadas and local beverages, get acquainted with the lifestyle of real gauchos (cowboys) on a carriage ride through the pampas. Later, at lunch, enjoy an authentic feast, complete with world-renowned Argentine beef, salad, desserts, and live music and dance by the gauchos themselves. Top off the day with an equestrian demonstration by the gauchos before saying adios to the countryside and heading back to the city. (B/L)
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURE & TRADITION: Argentinean Estancias date back to the 16th Century during Spanish colonization when conquistadors where gifted land to raise and breed cattle. Today, these lands and traditions that go along with them have been passed down from generation to generation. Today, you step into the traditional, local life of a gaucho and embrace Argentinian heritage.
Patagonian Pleasures
Fly south to Bariloche in Patagonia on the shores of fjord-like Lago Nahuel Huapi in the heart of Argentina's Lake District. Arrive in the early evening and join your Tour Director for a leisurely stroll through the picturesque town. See the city hall, the clock tower in Municipality Square, and the famous chocolate factories. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: You are in Argentina but, you feel like you are in a small town in Switzerland when in Bariloche! Use your time here to sample its famous chocolate, sip locally crafted beer, dine on world class cuisine, and take in the breathtaking views of this Patagonian mountain town.
Alpine Treasures
This chic alpine resort boasts some of the most glorious scenery in the country. Cameras should be ready for today's guided sightseeing including a chairlift ride to a lookout point at Cerro Campanario. You'll want to capture the vistas of surrounding lakes and Andes mountain peaks. The tour continues with a leisurely drive around the Llao Llao Peninsula, Lago Moreno, and Lopez Bay followed by lunch at a local restaurant. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Sit back and relax on the 7-minute chairlift ride to the Campanario summit at 3400 feet. From here you will experience the best views in Patagonia. Take in the sweeping vistas of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and lush forests.
Peak Perfection
Set out today for your Andes Lake crossing! Board a boat for the cruise across Lago Nahuel Huapi to Puerto Blest. Proceed by motorcoach and see emerald lakes, thick pine forests, and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes Mountains. Look out for soaring Osorno Volcano as you cross Lago Todos los Santos by catamaran. Skirt the southern shore of Lago Llanquihue on the way to Puerto Varas. Drive to your hotel along the rosebush-lined streets of this lakeside resort. (B/L/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - NATURAL WONDERS: Why go around the Andes Mountains when you can cut a path directly through them? That's exactly what you will do today on a full-day Andes Lake Crossing from Argentina to Chile! Sail across glacial lakes, travel through national parks, stop on a remote island for lunch, watch for giant condors, and cruise past active volcanoes into Chile. Today will be an unforgettable adventure.
Summits & Seas
Your morning tour of the nearby seaport of Puerto Montt in Chilean Patagonia takes you to the harbor brimming with fishing vessels and along a busy waterfront lined with seafood stalls. Transfer to the airport for your flight north to Santiago. Perched between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes, Santiago has evolved as the country's political, commercial, and cultural capital. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LOCAL TASTES: Discover a wide variety of fresh seafood during your visit to the local market in the seaside village of Angelmó near Puerto Montt. If seafood isn't your preference, you'll also find fruits, vegetables, cheese, meats, handicrafts, and much more.
Santiago Especial
Today, your Local Guide traces the city's history and heritage on a guided city tour. Start at La Moneda, the official Government Palace, before heading to the Plaza de Armas, the main square, with a visit to the 18th-century cathedral. Conclude your tour of Santiago with lunch at a local restaurant, including a glass of regional wine. Return to your hotel for a free evening. Your Tour Director will have recommendations on how to spend your evening. (B/L)
ENHANCED FREE TIME - SIGHTS & CITY LIGHTS: Chile's capital city shines amid the heights of the Andes and the horizons of the sea with plenty of head-turning panoramas. If you've got a head for nightlife, Santiago's streets are brimming with restaurants, bars, and cafes. Explore the Barrio Bellavista where trendy restaurants, bars, discos, music venues, street art offer something for every taste.
Hasta Luego, Chile
The day is free for independent activities. You may want to take advantage of an optional excursion to the beautiful coastal region west of Santiago. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner to celebrate a great touring adventure. (B/D)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: Take an excursion to Valparaiso and Viña del Mar. Drive through the hills of Chile's wine country to the historic port of Valparaiso, and continue along the coast to nearby Viña del Mar. Get local maps and tips for free time on your GlobusGO mobile app.
Welcome to Peru!
Fly to the modern city of Lima today where you will be met by your Globus representative. The remainder of your day is free to relax. (B)
Please note: the Tour Director does not accompany guests on extensions. Guided service is as outlined in the day by day itinerary.Plazas & Pre-Columbian Treasure
Guided sightseeing includes the Plaza de Armas, the Government Palace, Cathedral, and the 18th-century San Francisco Monastery with its unique cloisters. This evening, take a short drive to the Larco Herrera Museum to see some of the best Pre-Columbian art in the world followed by dinner at the museum. (B/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - ART & ARCHITECTURE: This evening, an exclusive guided Tour of Lima's Larco Herrera Museum, on the site of a 7th-century pre-Columbian pyramid, introduces you to the world's largest private collection of pre-Columbian Peruvian art. See 5,000 years of art, artifacts, and archaeological treasures followed by a special dinner in the beautiful Peruvian café here.
Inca Ingenuity
Fly to Cusco and spend the day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and visit the Temple of Sacsayhuaman, a fortress of gigantic stones with some blocks weighing more than 350 tons. Also, see the semi-circular Kenko Amphitheater and the ancient site of Puca Pucara before reaching Pisaq, a mountain village with one of the best Indian markets in the world. Stay in the Sacred Valley tonight. (B/L/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURE & TRADITION: Traditional Peruvian life is alive and well in the village of Pisaq. Meet the locals in their colorful Incan outfits, walk the cobblestone streets past homes and small cafes, and shop for silver, weavings, and much more at the famous market.
The Lost City
This morning, visit the Inca Fortress of Ollantaytambo, followed by a visit to a local home to meet some of the area's families and experience their way of life in the Sacred Valley. Then, board the Vistadome train for a scenic journey through the lush Urubamba Valley.
Upon arrival, ascend the mountainside to legendary Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” Your Local Guide will introduce this intact fortress with its temple remains, holy houses, and mile-long aqueduct, and will bring you closer to the mysteries still hidden in these amazing structures. Tonight, learn how to make the perfect Pisco Sour at a Peruvian cooking demonstration before your included dinner. (B/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - LIFE & TIMES: Today, you are invited into a local family's home in the Sacred Valley. Learn about their traditions like weaving that has been passed down for centuries from ancestors. See how they cook, live, sleep, work, and maybe ask about the cuy, or guinea pigs, they keep in their house.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: The Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, named one of South America's best hotels and the recipient of the Rainforest Alliance sustainability certification is located at the foot of the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu near the beautiful Vilcanota River, and offers impressive views of the mountains and landscapes. A hotel with a contemporary Andean style inspired by the ancient Peruvian cultures, offering personalized luxury service and innovative Peruvian cuisine. Offering regional gastronomy experiences, the Sumaq uses local ingredients in partnership with communities located high in the Andes, such as Quishuarcancha, Parcaraqui, and Huatata in Chinchero, as well as the small community of Ccorca that is home to fewer than 200 people.
Here Comes the Sun
A morning at leisure in Machu Picchu allows you to wake up early to see the sunrise over Machu Picchu with your second included entrance to the ruins. After lunch, return to the Sacred Valley by train and continue to Cusco. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Staying overnight in Machu Picchu allows you to get up early and experience the ruins at their most pristine before the crowds arrive. Watch as the mist slowly burns off and the sun rays illuminate the ruins. While you are there, you may even want to try and get a selfie with one of the local llamas or alpacas!
Sun Worship & Spanish Conquests
On your guided sightseeing tour of Cusco today, learn more about the Inca and Spanish influence. Begin at the heart of Cusco in the Plaza de Armas (main square), with a visit to the imposing cathedral, where construction began in 1550 and was finally completed 100 years later.
Continue to Koricancha and the Santo Domingo Monastery and see how the two sites have become one. The Temple of the Sun at Koricancha was once the most important Inca site, dedicated to the worship of the Sun. The walls, altars, and decorations were all said to be covered in gold—until the Spaniards looted the temple and then built the contrasting Baroque-style Santo Domingo Monastery on top of the temple's foundations.
Your tour concludes at San Pedro Market for a final opportunity to shop for mementos. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore on your own. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a festive farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LOCAL TASTES: You can find anything your heart desires at San Pedro Market. From every type of food, fresh juices, handmade clothing, knick knacks and more. Pro tip: Find a food stall that serves lomo saltado, a traditional Peruvian dish with steak, onions, tomatoes, and French fries. Muy Rico!
At Leisure in Lima
A short flight returns you to Lima, where the remainder of your day is free to explore. (B)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: Now is the time to fill your plate with the mouth-watering Peruvian culinary specialties to indulge the palate with a free day in Lima. From Pisco Sours to Pollo a la Brasa, from ceviche to cuy (if you're feeling adventurous). Your Tour Director can point you in the right direction, and your GlobusGO mobile app has local maps and suggestions to get the most out of your day.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- We've packed everything you need for the perfect tour—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides with complimentary headsets to hear every word, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world's most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach.
- Breakfast daily, 6 Lunches, 10 Dinners
- Rio de Janeiro: Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel and Resort (Deluxe):
Beautifully situated along the well-known Ipanema Beach, this contemporary hotel boasts gorgeous views and extreme comfort. All 559 guestrooms are equipped with the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, private balcony overlooking the sea, mini-bar, cable television, air-conditioning, and room service. The facilities include a swimming pool, tennis courts, beauty salon, fitness center, sauna, business center, three restaurants, and two bars. - Iguassu Falls: Bourbon Cataratas Hotel (First-Class):
The Bourbon Cataratas Resort Hotel, is strategically located near the main tourist sites of Iguassu. Exclusive and professional staff take care of every detail. - Buenos Aires: Hotel Alvear ICON (Superior First-Class):
Situated in Puerto Madero, the city's most eclectic district, take in the breathtaking views of the city and the River Plate while lodging in opulent and cozy suites, exploring the many eateries and bars, and unwinding in the magnificent Beauty & Wellness Center. The Alvear Icon Hotel is the ideal representation of the vitality and modernity that define Buenos Aires. - Bariloche: NH Bariloche Edelweiss (Superior First-Class):
Built in 1970 and refurbished recently, the Edelweiss Hotel is a modern first class property. A large lobby with fireplace, cozy lounge and reading corners awaits visitors. Amenities include a restaurant, bar, pool on the 7th floor, gym, full service spa, room service, and laundry service. - Puerto Varas: Radisson Puerto Varas (Superior First-Class):
Situated in the heart of the city beside Lake Llanquihue, the Radisson Hotel offers stunning views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes along with easy access to popular attractions. Featuring German-influenced architecture blended with rich wooden fixtures and classic stonework accents, the hotel's atmosphere is warm and inviting. Guests can enjoy the indoor pool, spa, complimentary Wi-Fi, and on-site restaurant. - Santiago: Sheraton Santiago Hotel & Convention Center (Deluxe):
This contemporary hotel is ideally located within minutes of some of the city's best shopping areas, restaurants, and attractions. The hotel features three Chilean inspired restaurants, two bars, state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, beauty salon, tennis court, gift shop, and access to medical services. - Lima: Hotel Pullman Miraflores (Superior First-Class):
The Pullman Miraflores hotel combins lifestyle and design for business and leisure. Located in the exclusive Miraflores district, near the Pacific Ocean, this hotel is not far from Larcomar shopping center. With over 236 rooms, Plural lounge restaurant, gym, pool and a spectacular Rooftop Bar the Pullman Miraflores offers an amazing place to stay and relax. - Sacred Valley: Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel and Villas (Superior First-Class):
The Casa Andina Premium Collection hotel in the Sacred Valley is a luxurious and satisfying retreat. Combining fine food, comfortable rooms, and personalized attention, it is the Valley's most complete hotel. In addition to a spa, a fitness center, and romantic dining, this hotel is best known for providing panoramic views of the Andes in every room. This charming mountain chalet-style hotel adds style and comfort to the already stunning atmosphere of Peru's Sacred Valley. - Machu Picchu: Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (Moderate Deluxe):
The Sumaq Hotel is located at the foot of the Machu Picchu ruins and boasts an Andean health spa, bar, restaurant, gift shop, and business center. - Cusco: Casa Andina Premium Cusco (First-Class):
A beautifully renovated 18th-century manor house is located 3 blocks from Cusco's Plaza de Armas. The hotel is distinguished by its 3 interior patios with wooden balconies. The principal patio, featuring a gurgling stone fountain, is one of Cusco's emblematic colonial courtyards. Amenities include a gourmet restaurant, bar, reading room, room service, gift shop, and laundry service.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- Please note that this tour is designed for all levels of fitness, however one should be in suitable physical condition to fully enjoy the experiences. Guests with mobility concerns may experience uneven surfaces specifically for ferry loading and unloading.
- Maximum enjoyment of this vacation requires walking on cobblestone streets, uneven pathways, and climbing stairs. Elevations exceeding 10,000 feet can make even modest exertion a challenge. Maximum elevation on this tour is 12,200 ft.
- There is a welcome meeting scheduled on day 1 in Rio de Janeiro at 2 pm. Check-in at the hotel is at 3 pm. Guests will depart the hotel for included sightseeing at 3:30 pm. Please make sure to arrive at the hotel in Rio prior to the meeting.
Globus includes all must-see sites, with special VIP access that lets you skip to the front of the queue. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of South America through its regional cuisine. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of South America. Read more
Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus takes care of the components that make your tour unforgettable, so just sit back and relax. Read more
Experience South America like an insider with Local Favourites that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Globus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and 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.
