Ultimate South America with Arequipa & Colca Canyon
Ultimate South America with Arequipa & Colca Canyon
$7160
Ultimate South America with Arequipa & Colca Canyon
23 Days Starting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and ending in Lima, Peru
Visiting: Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Puno, Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, Arequipa
Tour operator:
Tour code:
1206-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Ultimate South America with Arequipa & Colca Canyon" tour, an adventure that spans the vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes of Argentina, Brazil, and Peru. Begin in Rio de Janeiro, exploring iconic sites like Christ the Redeemer and the stunning beaches of Copacabana. Witness the awe-inspiring Iguassu Falls from both Brazilian and Argentine sides. In Buenos Aires, delve into the city's rich history and tango culture. Journey through Peru, from the colonial charm of Lima to the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Experience the serene beauty of Lake Titicaca, the dramatic depths of Colca Canyon, and the volcanic landscapes of Arequipa. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, natural wonders, and historical exploration.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Rio De Janeiro,Brazil
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation Name: Windsor Excelsior Copacabana
Welcome to spectacular Rio de Janeiro! After arrival, settle into your hotel and meet your Tour Director, who will have pointers for your free time exploration.
Day 2: Rio De Janeiro
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation Name: Windsor Excelsior Copacabana
Meals Included: Breakfast
Guided sightseeing begins with a drive along Rio’s famed Leblon, Ipanema, and more. Take the cog railway 2,300 feet up to the summit of Corcovado to view the Christ the Redeemer statue and enjoy 360-degree views of Guanabara Bay and the bustling city below. The famed statue was completed in 1931 becoming emblematic for both the city and the Brazilian nation as a whole. Your afternoon is free to explore.
Day 3: Rio De Janeiro
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation Name: Windsor Excelsior Copacabana
Meals Included: Breakfast
A free day in Rio allows you to relax on one of the beaches or take an optional excursion to the historic city of Petropolis.
Day 4: Rio De Janeiro,Iguassu Falls
Location: Iguassu Falls
Accommodation Name: Recanto Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Fly to Iguassu Falls, one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Journey to the Brazilian side of the falls to see the 275 waterfalls cascading over a precipice almost two miles wide and 250 feet deep. Walk into Devil’s Throat Canyon, where clouds of mist, a thunderous roar, and 180-degree rainbows surround you—an unforgettable experience!
Day 5: Iguassu Falls
Location: Iguassu Falls
Accommodation Name: Recanto Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the border for a visit to the Argentine side of Iguassu Falls. Begin with a short ride on the open-air Ecological Jungle Train through the surrounding rainforest. A series of boardwalks takes you above the falls for a look over the edge to see the water crashing down below into the Devil’s Throat. This afternoon, you may opt to visit the Bird Park, home to many species of endemic birds as well as flora from the area.
Day 6: Iguassu Falls,Buenos Aires,Argentina
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation Name: Kenton Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital. After settling into your hotel, you may wish to familiarize yourself with the “Paris of South America” and its wide boulevards, outdoor cafés, and charming shops.
Day 7: Buenos Aires
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation Name: Kenton Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide focuses on the city’s well-known landmarks, including the Teatro Colón Opera House and Plaza de Mayo, site of La Casa Rosada (the President’s Pink House), and Metropolitan Cathedral. Also, visit La Boca and San Telmo, one of Buenos Aires’ oldest neighborhoods, and Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón is buried. End your day with an Argentinean meal, followed by a sensuous Tango show highlighting this alluring dance so popular here.
Day 8: Buenos Aires
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation Name: Kenton Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is free for independent activities, or you can take an optional excursion to visit a local estancia (ranch) to experience the life of the gauchos (cowboys) on a traditional Argentine ranch complete with a barbecue lunch.
Day 9: Buenos Aires,Lima,Peru
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Jose Antonio Lima Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Board a flight for Lima, Peru. Heralded as the “City of Kings” by Spanish conquistadors, Lima still carries vestiges of its opulent past with its colonial buildings and world-class museums.
Day 10: Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Jose Antonio Lima Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Sightseeing today focuses on Lima’s colonial heritage. Founded in 1535, Lima was once the capital of Spain’s South American Empire. Visit the baroque 11th-century San Francisco Monastery, with Spanish and Moorish architecture throughout. Continue to Plaza Mayor, where you will see the Government Palace that houses the presidential palace and was once the home of Francisco Pizarro, founder of Lima and conqueror of Peru. Nearby, see the cathedral where Pizarro’s remains are buried. The remainder of your day is free to explore on your own. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant this evening.
Day 11: Lima,Cusco,Sacred Valley
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Sonesta Posadas del Inca - Sacred Valley - Yucay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Fly to Cusco high in the Andes and, upon arrival, descend into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Stop at Awanakancha and learn about the importance of camelids (llama, vicuña, alpaca, and guanaco) for Inca cultures. See them up close and learn how their coats are transformed into colorful weaving fibers that are then used in ancient weaving techniques still in use today. Continue to Pisac, a charming village with a famous Indian market, where you have plenty of time to browse the many colorful stalls selling handicrafts ranging from alpaca sweaters and blankets to painted vases and sterling silver. Later, arrive at your hotel, nestled in the peaceful Sacred Valley.
Day 12: Sacred Valley
Location: Sacred Valley
Accommodation Name: Sonesta Posadas del Inca - Sacred Valley - Yucay
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start the day with a visit to Ollantaytambo and the Inca ruins of the same name. Explore the archaeological site that was the scene of the Inca resistance during the Spanish conquest—the only place ever to resist Spanish attacks. You will see how the temple area at the top of the terraces was the perfect defensive stronghold. Next, visit a local home to experience life in this traditional village, which has been remarkably well preserved. Then, visit the Seminario Ceramics Workshop to learn about Peruvian ancient and modern art. End your day at a local chicheria for a taste of a typical Inca drink in Peru called chicha.
Day 13: Sacred Valley,Machu Picchu
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation Name: El Mapi by Inkaterra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Board the Vistadome train that cuts a path through the picturesque Urubamba Valley bound for Aguas Calientes, the quaint town closest to the “Lost City of the Incas.” Ascend the mountainside through tropical forest to the sacred refuge of Machu Picchu. Your guide recounts the many accomplishments of the Incas as you tour the terraced ruins dating back to the 15th century. Abandoned when the Inca Empire fell to the Spanish, these remarkable ruins remained undiscovered for nearly 400 years. For this reason, many of the mysteries surrounding Machu Picchu remain to this day.
Day 14: Machu Picchu,Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Jose Antonio Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy some free time this morning to explore the mountain town of Aguas Calientes; perhaps visit the local market, quaint boutiques, or take a walk along nearby trails. Later this afternoon, return to Cusco, former capital of the Inca Empire.
Day 15: Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Jose Antonio Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Cusco that focuses on the city that was once the political, military, and cultural epicenter of the Incas. In fact, Inca foundations can still be found in Cusco, with the Spanish baroque structures built on top. Visit the Santo Domingo Monastery, where these two forms of architecture are melded together with the temple of both cultures atop one another. Also, see the Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas before a visit to the Temple of Sacsayhuaman. Some of the best examples of Inca masonry can be found at this fortress, where stones weighing up to 350 tons are pieced together to form a complex that could house up to 10,000 men. Learn about the ceremonies and battles that took place here on your tour. Also, see the ruins of Kenko and Puca Pucara before returning to Cusco.
Day 16: Cusco,Juliaca,Puno
Location: Puno
Accommodation Name: Lake Titicaca Puno Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to Juliaca, then transfer to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Legend says the first Inca, Manco Capac, arose from the waters of the lake by the power of the sun god to found the Inca Empire.
Day 17: Puno. Excursion To Lake Titicaca
Location: Lake Titicaca
Accommodation Name: Lake Titicaca Puno Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experience fascinating Lake Titicaca today as you embark on a motorboat tour of the highest navigable lake in the world and its manmade islands. On Taquile Island, see how the local people integrate their Inca and Spanish past. Continue to the Uros floating islands, a group of approximately 40 artificially made islands. Learn how the Uros Indians construct their islands, homes, boats, and many other resources completely of tortora reed, a centuries-old practice. Enjoy a farewell dinner hosted by your Tour Director this evening.
Day 18: Puno,Colca Canyon
Location: Colca Canyon
Accommodation Name: Casa Andina Standard Colca Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, depart Puno for a scenic drive to Colca Canyon. Enjoy scenery of Pre-Columbian terraces populated with vicuñas and a variety of birds, and stop for lunch in the town of Chivay. This afternoon, arrive in Colca Canyon.
Day 19: Colca Canyon
Location: Colca Canyon
Accommodation Name: Casa Andina Standard Colca Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, spend time in the Colca Canyon, an impressive geological formation more than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. Visit Condors’ Cross, an observation point, where you can view the Andean condor in flight at eye level, followed by a visit to the town of Yanque. This afternoon is free for independent exploration.
Day 20: Colca Canyon,Arequipa
Location: Arequipa
Accommodation Name: Casa Andina Select Arequipa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive to Arequipa located in the Chili River Valley and flanked by three snowcapped volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. Known as the “white city,” Arequipa definitely does justice to its nickname, as its buildings are made of sillar, a white volcanic rock found throughout the area. The stone embellishes the facades of the city’s homes and churches.
Day 21: Arequipa
Location: Arequipa
Accommodation Name: Casa Andina Select Arequipa
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, a city tour of Arequipa shows off the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral before visiting the Jesuit church, considered the best example of the mestizo baroque style. Continue to the residential districts of Yanahuara and Chilina, where you enjoy a magnificent view of Arequipa’s countryside and the Mount Misti volcano.
Day 22: Arequipa,Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Jose Antonio Lima Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to Lima today.
Day 23: Lima
Location: Lima
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends after breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Guided Sightseeing
Guided sightseeing in Rio de Janeiro, including Christ the Redeemer statue and 360-degree views of Guanabara Bay.
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Visit to Iguassu Falls
Visit to Iguassu Falls, including Devil’s Throat Canyon and a ride on the Ecological Jungle Train.
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Exploration of Buenos Aires
Exploration of Buenos Aires, including Teatro Colón Opera House, Plaza de Mayo, and a Tango show.
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Tour of Lima’s Colonial Heritage
Tour of Lima’s colonial heritage, including San Francisco Monastery and Plaza Mayor.
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Visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including Awanakancha and Pisac Indian market.
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Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Guided tour of Machu Picchu, the 'Lost City of the Incas'.
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Motorboat Tour of Lake Titicaca
Motorboat tour of Lake Titicaca, including Taquile Island and Uros floating islands.
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Exploration of Colca Canyon
Exploration of Colca Canyon, including Condors’ Cross and the town of Yanque.
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Transport Between Destinations
Travel between destinations on this tour includes flights to Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Lima, Cusco, Juliaca, and Arequipa. Additionally, enjoy scenic drives, a motorboat tour on Lake Titicaca, and a ride on the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu.
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various hotels including Windsor Excelsior Copacabana, Recanto Park, Kenton Palace, Jose Antonio Hotel, Sonesta Posadas del Inca, El Mapi by Inkaterra, Lake Titicaca Puno Hotel, Casa Andina Standard Colca Hotel, and Casa Andina Select Arequipa.
What's Not Included
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions such as a visit to the historic city of Petropolis, Bird Park in Iguassu Falls, and a local estancia (ranch) in Buenos Aires.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations of the tour are not included.
Meals
22 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 7 dinners
UNESCO Sites
City of Cusco|Historic Center of Lima|Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu|Historical Centre of the City of Arequipa|Iguazu National Park
Accommodation
Perfectly positioned on the beaches of the Copacabana in Rio, the Windsor Excelsior welcomes guests through a softly lit lobby and provides exceptional accommodations. With a restaurant serving International fare with Brazilian flourishes, the rooftop pool and poolside bar, and complimentary towels, umbrellas and lounge chairs for use on Copacabana Beach, the Excelsior provides all of the details and services you'd expect for the perfect stay in Rio de Janeiro. Recanto Park features spectacular architecture that is integrated with the natural exuberance of an area set aside as a native conservation area. With sophisticated surroundings, comfortable guestrooms, and a wide variety of amenities, guests will enjoy a relaxing stay in Iguassu Falls. Ideally located in the San Telmo district nearby some of Buenos Aires' most prominent attractions, Kenton Palace features a wine cellar with hand-picked local wines, fitness center, wireless internet access, and on-site restaurant. Located in the exciting Miraflores district, the Jose Antonio Hotel features comfortable guestrooms, a business center, souvenir shop, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Bursting with character, the Sonesta Posadas del Inca hotel is the leader in boutique hotels in the Sacred Valley. Featuring a rustic ambiance with modern comforts, dynamite local cuisine, and friendly service, it makes for a memorable stay in one of the most remarkable places in the world. The colonial-style former monastery is surrounded by views of the Andes and beautiful gardens - a leisurely and soothing escape. Smart and contemporary are the defining elements of this hotel, amidst the commercial village of Machu Picchu Pueblo. The hotel welcomes a wide range of guests expecting an uncomplicated visit. Hotel amenities include a restaurant, bar, hot-water pond, gift shop, Internet, and laundry service. Located in the heart of the archaeological center of America's oldest city. A few minutes from the Plaza de Armas, this hotel has modern architecture with fine colonial details. Just five minutes from the town of Puno and in front of Lake Titicaca, Lake Titicaca Puno hotel provides an ideal base for discovering Peruvian culture and exploring the surrounding areas. With a restaurant that is open from early morning to late night and a lounge with a grand fireplace, the hotel has a constant feeling of comfort and a welcoming atmosphere. Not to mention the beautiful grounds you'll enjoy every day! Rustic, relaxed & intimate, with individual stone casitas, plant-lined walkways, an open-air patio with center fountain, and the hotel's own vegetable garden, the Casa Andina offers guests a breathtaking experience. Amenities include an on-site planetarium and restaurant, local musicians and dancers performing Andean and Colca musical traditions, chaman hut, bar, fireplace lounge, and business center. Perfectly positioned amongst the buildings of the "White City," the Casa Andina Select Arequipa features a traditional exterior with updated and stylish interiors. Offering a wealth of services like room service, laundry, an outdoor pool, business center, and modern rooms, this hotel provides the comforts you'd expect at home in a unique, colonial setting that is distinctly Peruvian.
Mode of Transport
Travel between destinations on this tour includes flights to Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Lima, Cusco, Juliaca, and Arequipa. Additionally, enjoy scenic drives, a motorboat tour on Lake Titicaca, and a ride on the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu.
Check out our Q&As
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What can I expect to see on the guided sightseeing tour in Rio de Janeiro?
The guided sightseeing tour in Rio de Janeiro includes a drive along the city's famed beaches such as Leblon and Ipanema. You will also take the cog railway up to the summit of Corcovado to view the Christ the Redeemer statue and enjoy 360-degree views of Guanabara Bay and the bustling city below.
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What activities are available on the free day in Rio de Janeiro?
On the free day in Rio de Janeiro, you can relax on one of the beaches or take an optional excursion to the historic city of Petropolis.
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What will I experience at Iguassu Falls?
At Iguassu Falls, you will visit both the Brazilian and Argentine sides of the falls. On the Brazilian side, you will see the 275 waterfalls cascading over a precipice almost two miles wide and 250 feet deep, and walk into Devil’s Throat Canyon. On the Argentine side, you will take a ride on the Ecological Jungle Train and walk above the falls to see the water crashing down into the Devil’s Throat.
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What landmarks will I see during the sightseeing tour in Buenos Aires?
During the sightseeing tour in Buenos Aires, you will see landmarks such as the Teatro Colón Opera House, Plaza de Mayo, La Casa Rosada (the President’s Pink House), Metropolitan Cathedral, La Boca, San Telmo, and Recoleta Cemetery where Eva Perón is buried.
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What is included in the visit to the Sacred Valley?
In the Sacred Valley, you will visit Awanakancha to learn about camelids and their importance to Inca cultures, explore the village of Pisac and its famous Indian market, visit the Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo, experience life in a traditional village, and visit the Seminario Ceramics Workshop. You will also taste a typical Inca drink called chicha at a local chicheria.
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What will I see and do at Machu Picchu?
At Machu Picchu, you will take the Vistadome train through the Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes and then ascend the mountainside to the ruins. Your guide will recount the accomplishments of the Incas as you tour the terraced ruins dating back to the 15th century. You will have some free time to explore the mountain town of Aguas Calientes.
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What can I expect during the guided sightseeing tour in Cusco?
The guided sightseeing tour in Cusco includes visits to the Santo Domingo Monastery, the Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, and the Temple of Sacsayhuaman. You will also see the ruins of Kenko and Puca Pucara, and learn about the ceremonies and battles that took place at these sites.
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What will I experience on the excursion to Lake Titicaca?
On the excursion to Lake Titicaca, you will embark on a motorboat tour of the lake and its manmade islands. You will visit Taquile Island to see how the local people integrate their Inca and Spanish past, and the Uros floating islands to learn how the Uros Indians construct their islands, homes, and boats from tortora reed.
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What will I see in Colca Canyon?
In Colca Canyon, you will visit Condors’ Cross to view the Andean condor in flight, and the town of Yanque. You will also have free time for independent exploration.
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What will I see on the city tour of Arequipa?
The city tour of Arequipa includes visits to the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Jesuit church. You will also visit the residential districts of Yanahuara and Chilina for a magnificent view of Arequipa’s countryside and the Mount Misti volcano.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.