South America Discovery
South America Discovery
South America Discovery
15 Days Starting in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil and ending in Cuzco, Peru
Visiting: Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls, Buenos Aires, Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu
Tour operator:
Tour code:
VSAMZM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
15 - 52
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Please advise request
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the South America Discovery tour, an unforgettable adventure through Brazil, Argentina, and Peru. Experience the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro, with its iconic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and marvel at the Christ the Redeemer statue. Witness the breathtaking Iguassu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides, and explore the cultural richness of Buenos Aires, including a tango show and a visit to the Recoleta Cemetery. In Peru, discover the historical wonders of Lima and Cusco, and journey to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. This tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, with expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and many meals included. Enjoy city tours, luxury transport, and a variety of unique experiences, all while making memories that will last a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Rio De Janeiro (3 Nights)
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Windsor Plaza Copacabana
Golden swathes of famous coastline, tropical landscapes and a certain joie de vivre will welcome you to one of the world’s most vibrant cities, Rio de Janeiro. Energy pulses through every pore of this passionate and fun loving city, flooding from the favelas to the football fields and cumulating in nightly parties where the caipirinhas are free flowing and the samba rhythm is infectious. Rio may be best known for its annual Carnival, but visiting here you’ll realise that every day is cause for celebration. Settle in to your hotel before meeting up with your Travel Director this afternoon. Then perhaps hit the sands of Copacabana to watch the sun set whilst you sip your first Cachaça.
Day 2: Rio De Janeiro Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Windsor Plaza Copacabana
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The picturesque Cosme Velho district will be your first stop today, where 1920s neo-colonial buildings will surround you as you board the Corcovado Rack Railway, an old cogwheel train. Hopping on board, you’ll wind your way through the Tijuca Forest to the very top of Mount Corcovado, standing in awe as you catch a first glimpse of the 30-metre-high Christ the Redeemer. The undisputed icon of Rio, this magnificent art deco statue is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and offers the best vantage point of the ‘Marvellous City’ stretching out below. Take your time exploring here before heading on to visit lively Copacabana and beautiful Ipanema, Rio’s best beaches. Tonight, celebrate the culture of South America at the Carretão Ipanema Churrascaria. Distinctly a South American-style rotisserie, it owes its origins to the fireside roasts of the gauchos of southern Brazil, traditionally from the Pampa region, centuries ago.
Day 3: Rio De Janeiro City Free Time
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Windsor Plaza Copacabana
Meals Included: Breakfast
Waking up to your final full day in Rio, today is free to explore your way. For those keen to get a closer look, you could also opt for a half day city tour of Rio which includes ascending the Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car for absolutely stand out views of Guanabara Bay.
Day 4: Rio De Janeiro – Iguassu Falls (2 Nights)
Location: Iguassu Falls
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Viale Cataratas Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Leaving the colourful costumes and infectious rhythms of Rio behind, this morning you’ll head to the airport to catch your flight to Iguassu Falls. Words can’t really describe the magnificence of the world’s largest series of waterfalls (275 to be exact), which straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil and are surrounded by lush expanses of national park. Settle in to your hotel this afternoon and spend the evening relaxing, no doubt bubbling with excitement for the natural spectacle that tomorrow will bring.
Day 5: Iguassu Falls And Free Time
Location: Iguassu Falls
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Viale Cataratas Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pack your raincoat and your sense of adventure this morning as you’re off to visit the Iguassu National Park, entering on the Brazilian side of the falls. You’ll be venturing down to the ominously named and utterly exhilarating Devil’s Throat, the tallest and most impressive of Iguassu’s waterfalls. Remember that raincoat? Now’s the time to use it! This afternoon opt to go on an open-air tram ride^ through the jungle to the Macuco Falls, where you’ll then board a custom-designed inflatable motorboat for a high intensity ride to the base of the falls. If keeping things a little more sedate is more your style, opt to visit a bird park on a Make Travel Matter Experience® where you can spot more than 150 different species of birds.
Day 6: Iguassu Falls – Buenos Aires (3 Nights)
Location: Iguassu Falls
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: NH City
Meals Included: Breakfast
Country hopping between Brazil and Argentina, today you’ll cross the Tancredo Neves Bridge, otherwise known as Fraternity Bridge, to explore the Argentinian side of the falls. Adding a new stamp to your passport as you cross through customs, you’ll drive through the lush and wildlife rich Argentinian Iguassu National Park to reach the falls and cascades which are equally as impressive from this side of the border. Boarding the open sided and near silent Ecological Jungle Train which is every bit as scenic and sensual as it sounds, you’ll pay a second visit to Devil’s Throat before heading to the airport to catch a flight to passionate, sexy, European influenced Buenos Aires.
Day 7: Buenos Aires Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: NH City
Meals Included: Breakfast
Waking up in sultry, red bloodied Buenos Aires this morning is a prospect that should fill you with excitement. This meat loving, tango obsessed capital city is a mix of sultry charm and gritty splendour, with European inspired buildings and street art pops from every corner. Dive in to all Buenos Aires has to offer on a sightseeing tour that will visit 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest avenue in the world, outstanding Colon Theatre, Plaza de Mayo, Metropolitan Cathedral and San Telmo, the oldest district in the city. Finishing up in colourful and charming La Boca you'll then have time to explore by yourself with the remainder of day at your leisure.
Day 8: Buenos Aires Free Time
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: NH City
Meals Included: Breakfast
Make the most of your free day in Buenos Aires with a variety of exciting Choice Experiences. One option is to head out into the glorious pampas (grasslands) surrounding Buenos Aires to visit a working ranch to learn more about the gaucho culture, enjoying folk music, traditional dances and carriage rides before rounding off the experience with a juicy BBQ lunch. You also have the option of visiting the lush countryside region of Tigre Delta, which offers a laid-back vibe and a chance to see a different side of Argentine life. Or, soak in another type of culture with a visit to “El Querandi,” a house in the historical district considered a living testimony of the city for a wine tasting. You can also join an Argentinean Culinary Experience making your own empanada and sampling Argentinean steak. Lastly, take a lesson in the iconic tango.
Day 9: Buenos Aires – Lima (2 Nights)
Location: Lima
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Lima
Meals Included: Breakfast
From Argentina you’ll fly to Peru this morning, bound for the ‘City of the Kings’, Lima. Rising above a long coastline of crumbling cliffs the city has a real sense of faded yet romantic grandeur, with historical sights a plenty and a culinary scene that is revered the world over. Arriving here you’ll have the rest of the day free to explore, which isn’t hard to do in this cultural and artsy city. Head to Parque del Amor to admire the Gaudi style architecture with beautiful views over Lima Bay, or take a wander around popular and bustling Miraflores.
Day 10: Lima Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Lima
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Lima
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the famous Plaza Mayor and Cathedral as well as the Government Palace, Archbishop’s Palace and City Hall. Delve into the dark history of the San Francisco Monastery, a museum featuring mysterious catacombs. Your afternoon and evening are free to join one of our exciting choice experiences. Take a walking tour with a local expert of the lively Miraflores district highlighting the Boardwalk of Miraflores, a cliff rising above the ocean at around 130 feet and the Larcomar shopping area. Or, indulge your taste buds on a food tour through Barranco or a street food tour – from coffee to churros – through Lima’s city centre. In the evening, opt to visit the colourful, musical Magic Water Fountains of Lima.
Day 11: Lima – Cusco – Sacred Valley (2 Nights)
Location: Cusco
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ava Valle Sagrado Spot
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Flying into Cusco, welcome to the Incan capital of the world! Boasting the richest heritage of any South American city, Cusco is a wealth of archaeological greatness and the oldest continuously inhabited city on the continent. It’s also the gateway to Machu Picchu, so throbs day and night with visitors exploring its ancient streets. Take in the ornate temples and Incan ruins as you arrive here. On the way to Sacred Valley, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during your visit to Chinchero Sunday market, still a very original market where you can find fruit and vegetable vendors as well as the occasional souvenir stall. Your guide will introduce you to some local produce such as potatoes, and if you wish, you can also taste some of the fruit. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® as you learn about Chicha, a local drink made of corn and admire llamas and alpacas before making your way to the hotel.
Day 12: Machu Picchu Excursion
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ava Valle Sagrado Spot
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today’s the day! Up bright and early this morning, you’ll travel to the ancient little town of Ollantaytambo to board the train to Aguas Calientes, the Incan village at the base of Machu Picchu. Slowly chugging your way through the rugged lands of the Sacred Valley, feel the excitement levels build as you pass by village settlements and towering mountains, the landscape changing as you descend. Making the last leg of the journey via shuttle, you’ll finally arrive at the most famous archaeological site of South America and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu. Catching a first glimpse of this awe inspiring ancient city above the clouds is a moment you’ll never forget, so be sure to take a few minutes just to soak it all in. Take your time exploring the vast complex of fascinating ruins and let the mind boggle at how it was all built, before descending the mountain and making your way back to the Sacred Valley. Visit the local home of Mrs. Rosa. Her house goes at least 7 generations back and is a fine example of Incan architecture. Learn more about how guinea pigs are raised, as well as ancient traditions kept alive until this day.
Day 13: Sacred Valley – Cusco (2 Nights)
Location: Cusco
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: San Agustin Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day in Pisaq, famous for its local market and empanadas. Taste the local food at a women-owned and operated empanada workshop. Learn from Mrs. Ernestina how to make empanadas out of seven different kinds of flour before enjoying the empanadas for lunch. Continuing on to Cusco you’ll also stop by the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 13th century, before arriving at the Incan capital of Cusco. Embark on a sightseeing tour of ancient Cusco visiting Coricancha, the Temple of the Sun and most important temple in the Incan Empire, before admiring the bounty of colonial art on display in the Cathedral.
Day 14: Cusco Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: San Agustin Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kick off the final day of your tour joining for an optional experience. Head to Moray and Maras to see Incan farming and salt mining techniques at play or visit 17th century Piquillacta to view the pre-Incan citadel built by the Wari people. Another option is to indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to the Choco Museum to learn more about the Peruvian chocolate making process. In town, tour Cusco after dark learning the secrets of this ancient city or experience Cusco off the beaten track visiting tiny stores and cemeteries with plenty of personal stories along the way. If you’re looking for an all-day adventure, join a trip to Rainbow Mountain where you’ll take a rigorous hike through breathtaking scenery of mountains and lakes.
Day 15: Depart Cusco
Location: Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
3 countries, 2 New Wonders of the World and 1 incredible adventure later, your trip will finally come to an end this morning. Leaving with priceless memories, a wealth of new knowledge and a wonderful group of new friends, you’ll make your way to the airport today. Departure is at leisure from Cusco Airport.
What's Included
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All internal air included in trip cost
All internal flights during the trip are covered in the cost.
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional driver.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation is provided in carefully selected and reliable hotels.
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Many meals included
The tour includes a variety of meals throughout the trip.
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Audio Headsets provided throughout your holiday
Audio headsets are provided to enhance your sightseeing experiences.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi available in most countries.
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City orientation tours
Orientation tours of the cities visited are included.
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Extensive variety of Choice Experiences
The tour offers a wide range of choice experiences for travelers.
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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
If necessary, hotels of a similar standard and location may be used.
What's Not Included
International flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
Dining Summary
- 14 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Essentials
- Explore iconic sights such as Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches, Christ the Redeemer and the stunning Tijuca Forest from your cogwheel train
- Iguassu Falls: Step out onto catwalks along the world's widest cascading waterfalls and be awed by Devil's Throat before boarding your jungle train through the sub-tropical Iguassu National Park.
- Discover Recoleta Cemetery, the Plaza de Mayo and 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest avenue in the world before being whisked away to your dinner and Tango show, where you travel back to the glory days of this colorful city
- Explore the "City of the Kings" and see the Cathedral, Government Palace, Archbishop's Palace, City Hall and visit San Francisco Monastery, famous for its catacombs
- Visit the famous Pisac Market
- Journey to the marvelous citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
- Explore Copacabana, Ipanema and Christ the Redeemer
- Visit the world's widest cascading waterfalls and see Devil's Throat
- Discover Recoleta Cemetery, the Plaza de Mayo and 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest avenue in the world
- Journey to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
- Visit the famous Pisac Market
- Discover Sacsayhuaman, Coricancha and the famous San Pedro market before enjoying a magical evening featuring an entertaining folklore show
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with luxury air-conditioned coaches equipped with Wi-Fi, internal flights included in the trip cost, and scenic train rides through breathtaking landscapes, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at cherry-picked hotels like Windsor Plaza Copacabana, Viale Cataratas Hotel, NH City, Hilton Garden Inn Lima, Ava Valle Sagrado Spot, and San Agustin Plaza, all tried and trusted for quality and service.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is included during the tour?
The tour includes all internal air travel, a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries, and the Corcovado Rack Railway in Rio de Janeiro. Additionally, there is a train journey to Aguas Calientes for the Machu Picchu excursion.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, many meals are included in the tour package. Specifically, the tour provides 14 breakfasts, 3 dinners, and 1 lunch.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
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What are some of the key highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include visiting iconic sights such as Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches, Christ the Redeemer, Iguassu Falls, Recoleta Cemetery, Plaza de Mayo, and Machu Picchu. The tour also includes a tango show in Buenos Aires and a visit to the San Francisco Monastery in Lima.
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver are provided throughout the tour to enhance your sightseeing experiences.
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What kind of activities are available during free time on the tour?
During free time, you can explore Rio de Janeiro, take a city tour including Sugarloaf Mountain, visit a working ranch in Buenos Aires, or explore the Tigre Delta. In Lima, you can take a walking tour of Miraflores or enjoy a food tour. In Cusco, options include visiting Moray and Maras, the Choco Museum, or hiking Rainbow Mountain.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty and joy of taking a guided vacation with Costsaver is that you get to meet, travel and make friends with people from all over the world.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Costsaver is part of The Travel Corporation, which has been in business for over 100 years.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Costsaver is proud to be a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation started in 2008. To date the charity has donated over US$2 million to assist underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism initiatives around the globe.
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Low Deposit
Costsaver requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD 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 costsaver 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.
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Terms and Conditions