South America In-Style

Day 1: 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. 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 features wonderful churches, cloisters and monasteries. Today, the patchwork of Lima’s vibrant city life and neighbourhoods combine with a plethora of museums and churches to offer visitors a fascinating and rich cultural heritage to discover. Meet your fellow travellers this evening over a welcome drink in the hotel.

Day 2: Lima

Our day begins with a visit to the Barranco district, one of the city’s most romantic and atmospheric areas. Next we head to the Larco Museum which 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. We’ll return to the hotel to allow a few hours to rest and relax or explore further at your own pace before exploring colonial Lima later this afternoon. Our first stop is the Plaza de Armas, where we see the Government Palace, the House of El Oidor and the stunning City Hall building. We take a stroll through the Cathedral of Lima and hear about some of the religious history of Peru. Special Experience Tour Lima's oldest colonial mansion, Casa Aliaga, before a decadent 3-course dinner in the dining room, courtyard or main salon. This elegant historic mansion was built on land granted to Captain Jeronimo de Aliaga y Ramirez by conquistador Francisco Pizzaro after Lima’s founding in 1535. The house has been owned by the same family for over 17 generations and features a unique blend of Spanish and Peruvian architectural styles.

Day 3: Lima - Cusco

We depart Lima early this morning 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 before heading out to lunch at Limo, one of the finest restaurants in the city that offers unbeatable views of the Plaza de Armas - the main square of Cusco. The plaza is adorned with colourful gardens and wide stone pathways and features iconic buildings such as the Cusco Cathedral and Church La Compañía de Jesús. The remainder of the day is at leisure – why not visit the nearby Pisco Museum and taste the country's signature cocktail, the Pisco Sour.

Day 4: Cusco

Our first stop of the day is the fascinating fortress of Sacsayhuaman, which is one of the most famous Inca ruins in the Cusco region. This ancient temple is known to have been the location of an intense battle between the invading Spanish and the ruling Inca in the 15th century. We then explore 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 visit 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 tour the 17th-century Cusco Cathedral – the façade of which is a fine example of colonial baroque architecture. We’ll walk the historic San Blas neighbourhood, known for its narrow, cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. There are many sights to see including the Main Square of Cusco, Hatun Rumiyoc Street, the San Blas Temple and the Merida House.

Day 5: Cusco – Belmond Hiram Bingham train – Machu Picchu

Deluxe Experience Experience the magic of the Sacred Valley as we travel to Machu Picchu aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham train. Savour a delectable brunch and indulge in a variety of Peruvian wines while enjoying the scenic journey. The luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham train is named after the explorer who rediscovered the Inca citadel. Decorated in the style of 1920’s Pullman trains, each carriage has been furnished in polished wood and brass with large, comfortable armchairs. The train features two dining cars with tables that are exquisitely set with gleaming crystal and polished cutlery. It also features an observation car, furnished with large, cushioned seats – the perfect place to sit, relax and watch the Peruvian landscape unfold. On arrival in Aguas Calientes we’ll check into our 5-star eco retreat, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, before taking a local bus up the mountain to the entrance of Machu Picchu. One of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’ and known as the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu was built around 1450, but abandoned 100 years later at the time of the Spanish conquest. Our guide will give us an in-depth introduction and description of the site and we’ll also have time to explore the ruins at our own pace afterwards. 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.

Day 6: Machu Picchu - Sacred Valley

This morning is at leisure. You have the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit to thoroughly soak in the beauty of this ancient phenomenon before the crowds arrive. Next, we'll board the Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Urubamba Valley, as it's also called, was the centre of the Inca Empire and features various archaeological sites and villages. This valley was significant to the Incas because of its unique geography and climate and was a vital source of natural resources for the empire. We’ll stop at a chicheria to sample chicha, Peru's beloved drink, and have an opportunity to try cuy, a local delicacy made from guinea pig. Don't forget to play sapo (toad), a traditional Andean game that's almost like a rite of passage when visiting a chicheria. Optional Excursion 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

Day 7: Sacred Valley

A fascinating day ahead, beginning with an exploration of the salt ponds of Maras and the impressive circles of Moray. At Maras you’ll find the intriguing Inca salt ponds, which have been in use since pre-Incan times. The individual ponds have been owned by the same local families for generations and they still use the traditional techniques to farm the salt. At Moray, you’ll see the special elliptical irrigation terraces which the Sacred Valley is famous for. These terraces are considered the agricultural experimental centre of the Incas, where they tested growing different crops on the different levels. Special Experience Bask in the rustic charm of a traditional Paso Horse show, while dining al fresco at Ranch Wayra in Urubamba. In Urubamba we’ll visit the beautiful Wayra Ranch for an unforgettable afternoon that includes a Peruvian lunch and Paso Horse show. The display of coordination, discipline and passion from horse and rider will astound and the mountains of the Sacred Valley serve as a dramatic backdrop. Our afternoon continues in the ancient Inca village of Ollantaytambo, one of the best surviving examples of Inca city planning. After ascending the steep stone staircase, we'll enter the intriguing Incan ruins that comprise an imposing fortress. We explore the town’s narrow streets for an up-close look at the Inca’s dry masonry skill. Their astounding craftsmanship ensures that even after centuries of earthquakes, a knife cannot be slipped into the seams between the limestone blocks. The next stop is the Seminario pottery workshop which contextualises styles and techniques used in Peru’s ancient cultures.

Day 8: Sacred Valley - Cusco

On our way back to Cusco this morning, we visit the impressive ruins and the lively market at Pisac. This market is well-known for its handicrafts and is a great place to pick up some beautiful and authentic souvenirs to take home. Special Experience Savour delicious dishes made of locally sourced produce at Hacienda Sarapampa, a charming farm in the Sacred Valley. After lunch at the beautiful Hacienda Sarapampa, we’ll also stop at Manos de la Comunidad, a local co-operative where we’ll meet native weavers and see the South American camelid species – llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicuñas. We arrive into Cusco in the late afternoon.

Day 9: Cusco

Spend a leisurely day in vibrant Cusco, brimming with plazas, archaeological ruins, and artisan shops. 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?

Day 10: Cusco - Puno

Deluxe Experience All aboard the luxurious Belmond Andean Explorer train as we travel from Cusco to Puno. Unwind in your splendid cabin as the train winds its way through the majestic High Andes Mountains. Savour lunch in one of the elegant dining cars where the menu is based around refined Andean specialties, served with a contemporary flair. 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’. This evening we’ll enjoy a sunset over La Raya Mountains as we dine. Our inside tip is to retire to the bar as the train continues its way to Lake Titicaca.

Day 11: Puno - Lake Titicaca - Puno

Wake early to catch the breathtaking sunrise across Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, before returning to the dining car for a decadent breakfast. We’ll spend the day discovering the eclectic beauty and rich diversity of life on Lake Titicaca. First, we visit an Indian community located on the floating Uros Islands. What makes the Uros Islands so unique is the material used to create them - reeds that are found in the lake 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. Next, we discover Taquile Island - famous for its craft production and beautiful textiles. We’ll enjoy a private lunch on Collata Beach, complete with demonstrations from traditional dancers and artisanal workers. We’ll return in time for afternoon tea at the station before the train continues its journey on to Arequipa.

Day 12: Puno – Cañahuas – Colca Valley

Explore the spellbinding scenery of the rugged Lake Lagunillas on an early morning excursion. We’ll also visit Sumbay Caves, home to a series of 8,000-year-old cave paintings. Later we’ll disembark the train in Cañahuas and transfer to the famous Colca Canyon. This canyon is the world’s deepest at twice the depth of the Grand Canyon. We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant along the way.

Day 13: Colca Valley - Arequipa

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.

Day 14: Arequipa

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. Today's city tour includes 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, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding volcanic landscape. The afternoon is free for you to relax or explore at your own pace. Why not visit the Museo Santuarios? This museum is famous for Juanita, the Inca frozen ‘mummy’, preserved in a glass refrigerator. In the evening, we’ll meet for a dinner at a local restaurant to bid farewell to captivating Peru.

Day 15: Arequipa - Lima - Rio de Janeiro

Today we fly via Lima to vibrant Rio de Janeiro. Situated amongst lush, forest-covered mountains and breathtaking beaches, Rio is one of the world's most lively and beautiful cities.

Day 16: Rio de Janeiro

Rise with a smile this morning because it’s time to explore Rio de Janeiro! The Cidade Maravilhosa, or ‘Marvellous City’, is situated amongst lush, forest-covered mountains and breathtaking beaches, and is one of the world's most lively and beautiful cities. Today we’ll discover the icons of this amazing city, beginning with the Statue of Christ the Redeemer. One of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’, it 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 was opened in 1884 and is Brazil’s oldest tourist excursion. There will be so 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.

Day 17: Rio de Janeiro

Special Experience Discover Old Rio on a walking tour and enjoy a farm-to-cup Brazilian coffee tasting experience. 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 Brazilian churrasco grill dinner at Fogo de Chão this evening. Optional Excursion 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 $66pp 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 $107pp US

Day 18: 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. Deluxe Experience Experience the thunderous falls and stunning views at the opulent Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, within the Iguazu National Park, in your Deluxe Falls View room for two nights.

Day 19: Iguazu Falls

Today we'll explore the Brazilian side of the falls, marvelling at the cascading water and lush surroundings, then venture along the canyon path to soak in the breathtaking panoramic vistas overlooking San Martin Island. We’ll then get up close and personal with more than 150 species of stunning, exotic birds at the famous Parque das Aves Bird Park. We’ll have the opportunity to photograph colourful macaws, toucans and flamingos, and learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect these beautiful creatures. The afternoon is at leisure for you to rest and relax. Optional Excursion 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 $212pp US.

Day 20: Iguazu Falls - Buenos Aires

We’ll begin exploring the Argentinian side of this natural masterpiece this morning. A small train takes us into Iguazu National Park, and we continue on foot to the falls. Suspended over the thundering Devil’s Throat, we’ll stand on a platform overlooking the largest of the waterfalls. A word of warning… we will get wet, so don’t forget to bring a spray jacket! We then farewell the falls and transfer to the airport for our flight 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.

Day 21: 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, the Plaza de Mayo and its buildings, Casa Rosada (Government House) and the Catedral Metropolitana de Buenos Aires. 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’ll then 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.

Day 22: Estancia Stay

Explore Argentina's colonial past today by visiting San Antonio de Areco, a historic town with deep roots in gaucho culture and the vast Pampas region. Deluxe Experience Journey to one of the nation's oldest estancias for a night and experience Argentine traditions like horseback riding, asados, and yerba maté tasting. Nestled in the Pampa Valley is La Bamba, a historic estancia that dates back to 1830 when it served as a post house on the 'Camino Real' - the Royal Road connecting Buenos Aires to the north. Immerse yourself in Argentine and gaucho heritage by experiencing traditional gaucho customs. We can also enjoy an Argentinian bowls games, indulge in a hot stone massage, or simply relax by the pool.

Day 23: Buenos Aires

After a relaxing sleep in this morning, we’ll return to Buenos Aires. Here we enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to relax or to further explore this fascinating city. You may choose to hit the shops of Calle Florida and the trendy Palermo districts or explore the city's wealth of museums and art galleries, either way there is lots to see! Tonight, don't miss the chance to witness the vibrant tango dinner show - an essential experience in Argentina. Put on your dancing shoes and be ready to move to the rhythm as we'll also have a tango lesson.

Day 24: Depart Buenos Aires

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!

Day 25: In Transit

Day 26: Arrive Australia