Premium Highlights of South America

Premium Highlights of South America

24 Days Starting in Lima and ending in Rio de Janeiro

Visiting: Lima, Amazon Jungle, Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu, Cusco to Lima, Santiago, Valparaiso, Mendoza, Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls - Brazilian side, Iguazu Falls - Argentinian side, Rio de Janeiro

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

GGPRC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

15-99 years

Interests:

Cultural

From: $15595

NB: Prices correct on 25-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Experience the diversity of wonders across Peru, Chile, Argentina and Brazil on a 24-day Premium journey. Be immersed in the ancient culture of the Incas, visit the Amazon Jungle and revel in the magnificent citadel ruins of Machu Picchu. Soak up the energy of Santiago and Buenos Aires’ lively neighbourhoods and sip some of the world’s best wine in Mendoza. At the border with Brazil, experience the magnificent might of Iguazu Falls, before finally arriving in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Rio de Janeiro. With the guidance of passionate local leaders, you’ll find out South America dances to the beat of its own drum.

Highlights

  • Experience the best of South America with three Feature Stays. Stay deep in the Amazon at an indigenous-owned lodge, enjoy two nights in a historical house in downtown Santiago and sleep in Art Nouveau elegance in Buenos Aires.

  • Elevate your adventure with memorable Exclusive Experiences including a tango lesson and asado dinner in Buenos Aires, rooftop pisco sours in Valparaiso and an insider’s day tour of the El Tigre Delta

  • Take your taste buds on a trip with Exclusive Experiences, including bodega tastings in Santiago, an expert-lead winery tour in Mendoza, lunch at the Gastromotiva social enterprise in Rio and home-cooked pachamanca lunch in the Sacred Valley.

  • Get to know local culture during Exclusive Experiences, including interactions with the Ese Eja and Chichubamba communities, and explore with expert guides in Cusco, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.

  • Soak in unbeatable views of the Andes as you travel towards Machu Picchu on a 360 train. With high domed windows and an open-air observation carriage, this Exclusive Experience allows you to immerse yourself in the incredible landscape.

Places You'll See

Christ The Redeemer

Niagara Falls

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Lima

Location: Lima

Accommodation: Pullman Lima Miraflores or similar

Meals Included: dinner

Bienvenido! Welcome to Peru. Your adventure begins in Lima, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for a welcome meeting at 2 pm. After, head out to get to know the city on a walking tour of downtown Lima with your leader. Admire the buildings of Plaza Mayor and visit the eerie catacombs of the Saint Francis Monastery, then head away from the tourist trail to Alameda de Chabuca Granda – an area popular with the locals. Stop off at the colourful street food stalls to sample some of Lima’s favourite sweet treats, like Peruvian doughnuts and mazamorra morada (porridge made from purple corn). Lima has one of the world’s most revered culinary scenes, and tonight, you’ll head to one of the city’s best restaurants that boasts stunning views, surrounded by ancient ruins. The creative chef here offers traditional Peruvian dishes with modern twists in a one-of-a-kind environment.

Included Activities:
-Lima - Downtown walking tour
-Lima - Alameda Chabuca Granda tour and tastings
-Lima - San Francisco Monastery and the Catacombs
-Lima - Welcome Dinner
-Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Optional Activities:
-Lima - Private Larco Museum (Based on 4 participants)
-Lima - Lima Discovery + San Francisco and Pisco Sour - Urban Adventures (Price based on 2 participants)
-Lima - Lima Pisco Making (Based on 4 participants)
-Lima - Lima Water Show (Based on 4 participants)
-Lima - Private: Home Cooked Tour Ceviche experience Urban Adventure (Based on 2 Participants)

Day 2: Amazon Jungle

Location: Amazon Jungle

Accommodation: Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion (Feature Stay) or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Today, you’ll catch a flight to Puerto Maldonado. When you arrive, take a bus to the port where you’ll board motorised canoes and head into the Amazon rainforest. Keep an eye out for macaws, herons, alligators and capybaras along the way. Here, you’ll find Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion – your Feature Stay for the next two nights. Built in the heart of a 380-hectare private ecological reserve, this unique resort is focused on the conservation of local habitats and features 25 private cabanas plus an on-site team of expert local guides. Enjoy lunch at the lodge, then explore the Concepcion Trails with an expert guide. As darkness begins to fall, join a guided Twilight River boat ride and try to spot some caimans lurking on the riverbanks. Dinner tonight will be a la carte and draws on local Amazon ingredients.

Included Activities:
-Amazon Jungle - Night boat tour

Day 3: Amazon Jungle

Location: Amazon Jungle

Accommodation: Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion (Feature Stay) or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

After breakfast, board a dug-out wooden canoe and glide across Lake Sandoval, keeping an eye out for potential wildlife sightings, like red howler monkeys, giant river otters and colourful macaws. After lunch, you might like to walk along the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway – a 344 m network of suspension bridges that take you high above the forest floor to some of the best places to spot toucans, woodpeckers, monkeys and three-toed sloths. Join a night walk to discover the nocturnal activity in the surrounding areas or book into the lodge’s spa before you meet your group for dinner.

Included Activities:
-Amazon Jungle - Oxbow Lake
-Amazon Jungle - Night jungle walk

Day 4: Cusco

Location: Cusco

Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium Cusco Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, you’ll travel back to Puerto Maldonado, then take a flight to Cusco – the former centre of the Inca Empire. Arrive in the early afternoon before heading out with your leader to discover what the city has to offer. Stop by the stunning Plaza de Armas – the heart of the city, flanked by ornate churches. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cusco Cathedral, built on top of an Inca palace and one of the city's greatest repositories of art. Here, you’ll meet with a local historian guide who will provide expert insight into the building’s art, architecture and history and the surrounding city. Visit the Coricancha Temple – once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. The evening is free for your own discoveries. Cusco offers no shortage of restaurants and as night falls, the city is swept up in a flurry of live music and late-night street food stalls.

Included Activities:
-Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk
-Cusco - Cathedral tour with Specialist Historian Guide
-Cusco - Coricancha Temple (entrance fee)

Day 5: Cusco

Location: Cusco

Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium Cusco Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today is free for you to explore at your own pace. Why not head to the San Pedro market, where you can practice your bargaining skills and take photos, then swing by the Plaza de Armas for another look at the cathedral. Speak to your leader about the optional cooking class at a local restaurant using fair trade products, or take the half-day Inkilltambo trek, exploring an archaeologic site on the city’s outskirts. Maybe consider checking out the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, where the massive stone blocks that form the walls provide an impressive picture of how greatly developed Inca engineering was.

Optional Activities:
-Cusco - Inca Museum (entrance fee)
-Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure (Based on 2 participants)

Day 6: Ollantaytambo

Location: Ollantaytambo

Accommodation: Pakaritampu Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

This morning, travel through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, passing maize crops and fertile terraces carved into the valley walls. Visit the AMA Restaurant in Urubamba – this cafe provides employment opportunities and job training for single mothers throughout the Sacred Valley. Enjoy a snack and learn how this inclusive enterprise focuses on economic growth, gender equality and the support of vulnerable communities. Then venture further into the Sacred Valley to meet the Willoq community and gain a greater insight into the local lifestyle and visit a local workshop where you’ll learn about traditional textile techniques that are used by the community – you’ll even have the chance to make your own bracelet with the local women. Sit down for a festive pachamanca lunch. Continue to Ollantaytambo – a magnificent example of Inca urban planning and the perfect warm up for Machu Picchu. Explore Ollantaytambo's archaeological site with an expert local guide who will discuss the evidence of the Incas' engineering skills in the ruins of ancient aqueducts, irrigation canals, dams, terraces and centres of worship dedicated to Pachamama (Mother Earth).

Included Activities:
-Ollantaytambo - Archaeological site
-Sacred Valley - Community workshops visit
-Sacred Valley - Home-cooked lunch
-Sacred Valley - Snack & drink at AMA Restaurant social enterprise

Day 7: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu

Location: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu

Accommodation: MAPI Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today, travel from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes in style, boarding the 360 Machu Picchu Train. High, domed windows offer unbelievable views of the Andes, allowing you to sit back comfortably and take it all in. The train also features an open-air observation carriage to completely immerse yourself in the remarkable landscape. Disembark the train in Aguas Calientes, drop your belongings at your hotel, then take a short bus ride up the winding road to Machu Picchu, where you’ll be joined by a guide who will take you through the ruins and tell you stories of its history. The true purpose behind Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, may always be a mystery since no records of the complex exist. Most archaeologists, however, believe it to be the 15th-century headquarters of Emperor Pachacuti. Later, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes.

Included Activities:
-Machu Picchu - Entrance & Guided visit
-Ollantaytambo - 360 degree train to Aguas Calientes

Optional Activities:
-1 Day Inca Trail - Add-on (Must pre-book)

Day 8: Cusco

Location: Cusco

Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium Cusco Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

Rise before the sun and take the winding road back up to the incredible Machu Picchu. On your second visit, explore more of the extraordinary architecture of the temples, palaces and living quarters. Looking at Machu Picchu as it sits against a backdrop of forested mountains is a truly breathtaking experience. Its mortar-free design is particularly earthquake resistant, and the stones are so precisely cut that, to this day, not even a knife fits between them! Take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, then catch a train back to Ollantaytambo. From here, you’ll make the drive back to Cusco for the evening.

Included Activities:
-Machu Picchu - Second visit

Day 9: Cusco To Lima

Location: Cusco to Lima

Meals Included: breaksfast

In the afternoon, fly from Cusco to Lima, where you'll spend the night. In the morning, you'll depart Peru and head to Chile for the next stage of your adventure.

Day 10: Santiago

Location: Santiago

Accommodation: Altiplanico Bellas Artes Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Today, you'll take your next unaccompanied flight form Lima to Santiago. When you arrive, you'll be met at the airport and taken to your accommodation where you'll have another welcome meeting at 6 pm. Your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two evenings is the Altiplanico Bellas Artes. Converted from a historical house built in 1909, the hotel focuses on architecture and creative interior design while retaining the welcoming spirit of the home it once was. The hotel’s enviable location serves as a perfect base for your first explorations of Santiago. If you arrive early, maybe head out and explore the Parque Forestal just steps from your front door. After your meeting, head out for dinner with your leader and group. From baked casserole to razor clams cooked in parmesan cheese, Chilean food is hearty, fresh and delicious.

Included Activities:
-Complimentary Arrival Transfer
-Santiago - Welcome Dinner

Day 11: Santiago

Location: Santiago

Accommodation: Altiplanico Bellas Artes Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Get to know the city on a tour with a local guide who’s an expert on all things Santiago. Your guide will peel back the many layers of the city’s history, beginning at the main square of Plaza de Armas where you’ll hear the tales of the foundation of Santiago and its turbulent past. Continue to La Moneda Palace, the home of Chile’s presidential office, where your guide will fill you in on the country’s complicated political history. From here, take the short drive to Parque Bicentenario, created in 2011 to commemorate 200 years of independence. Walk through the grounds then head to a local eatery to sample some excellent cheese, ham and wine for lunch. The rest of the day is free for your own explorations.

Included Activities:
-Santiago - City tour
-Santiago - Gourmet bodega lunch

Day 12: Valparaiso

Location: Valparaiso

Accommodation: Hotel Casa Galos or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a free morning in Santiago. Maybe visit the Mercado Central – Santiago’s celebrated fish market. Then, begin the journey to Valparaiso, stopping off for a wine tasting on the way in the Casablanca Valley. Sitting on a coastal plain between the capital and Valparaiso, Casablanca Valley is Chile’s fastest growing wine region, with rich soil and a perfect climate for chardonnay and sauvignon blanc. Visit a vineyard focused on sustainable and organic viticulture, then continue to Valparaiso, known for its brightly hued houses that spread over the hills overlooking the ocean. Your hotel for the next two nights has been delighting guests since 1885 and sits in the historic heart of the city. Enjoy an introduction to pisco on the rooftop and take in the views.

Included Activities:
-Casablanca Valley - Winery tour and tasting
-Valparaiso - Rooftop pisco sours

Day 13: Valparaiso

Location: Valparaiso

Accommodation: Hotel Casa Galos or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage centre in 2003, Valparaiso used to be South America’s busiest port before the opening of the Panama Canal. It has since transformed itself into Chile’s most creative city, which you'll learn more about on the walking tour today with a local guide. The hills of Cerro Concepcion and Cerro Alegre are dotted with coloured houses, cobbled streets, galleries, restaurants and shops. Later, visit the Museum of Fine Arts, housed in a beautiful art nouveau chalet. Tonight, maybe visit an iconic local restaurant credited with the invention of chorrillana. This legendary Chilean dish is made up of French fries topped with beef, eggs and fried onions.

Included Activities:
-Valparaiso - Walking tour
-Valparaiso - Museum of Fine Arts (entrance fee)

Optional Activities:
-Valparaiso - La Sebastiana Museo de Pablo Neruda (entrance fee)

Day 14: Mendoza

Location: Mendoza

Accommodation: Amerian Chacras de Coria or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Depart Valparaiso and head back to Santiago to catch a flight to Mendoza. As your plane crosses the Andes, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Aconcagua – the highest mountain in the Americas at 6962 m above sea level. In Mendoza, get to know the lively city with a gentle stroll around its wide, lively streets with your local leader. Technically a desert city, the extensive irrigation system here means Mendoza is remarkably green. Check out the city’s tree-lined spaces – from the sprawling Parque San Martin to Plaza Espana – and get a taste of local life along the bustling street, Peatonal Sarmiento. Head South towards wine country and your countryside boutique hotel.

Included Activities:
-Mendoza - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 15: Mendoza

Location: Mendoza

Accommodation: Amerian Chacras de Coria or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Mendoza is Argentina's most significant grape-growing region, producing nearly three-quarters of the country's wine. The climate produces an excellent variety of grapes, with the region's signature being Malbec. Today, you’ll get to experience this internationally renowned wine at its source during tours and tastings at three world-class and innovative wineries, each with its own distinct style and flavour. Meet with a local wine expert and gain inside knowledge on the varieties of grapes and different production methods used at each winery, and sample award winning bottles just as spectacular as the surrounding Andes. After the tastings, settle in for a special closed-door gourmet lunch at one of the wineries. Enjoy several courses paired with wines carefully selected to bring out the flavours in the wonderful food. In the evening, maybe test your palate by attempting to pair the perfect wine with an authentic Argentine asado (barbecue-style food).

Included Activities:
-Mendoza - Tour of three wineries
-Mendoza - Gourmet winery lunch

Day 16: Buenos Aires

Location: Buenos Aires

Accommodation: Design Suites Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning fly from Mendoza to Buenos Aires, then transfer to your boutique accommodation. Built in 1913, the hotel is located in the centre of the city. In the afternoon, soak up the Argentinean capital’s mix of European and Latin culture on an orientation walk with your leader. Visit Florida Street, National Congress and the presidential palace of the Casa Rosada (Pink House) in the Plaza de Mayo. If there’s time, your group may get to visit the Obelisk as well. The evening is free to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit a tango bar, attend a football match, or find a great local eatery and set up shop.

Included Activities:
-Buenos Aires - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 17: Buenos Aires

Location: Buenos Aires

Accommodation: Design Suites Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Today, head north of Buenos Aires to explore the city of Tigre and its surrounding delta region. First, do as the locals do and catch the subway to San Martin square, then set off on a bicycle tour around Puerto Maldero and the Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve – where inhabitants of the city come for a peaceful escape and fresh air. Hop on a train to Tigre and get to know the city during a walking tour. Visit the local fruit market, follow the river along the stunning Paseo Victorica street and stop by the Tigre Art Museum to admire the European inspired building. Next, take a private boat through the third-largest river delta in the world, then stop off on an island for a homemade lunch. Here, swim, kayak or just sit back and soak in the beautiful island surroundings. Transfer back to Buenos Aires for a free night.

Included Activities:
-Buenos Aires - Tigre Delta day trip
-Buenos Aires - Home-cooked lunch

Day 18: Buenos Aires

Location: Buenos Aires

Accommodation: Design Suites Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Enjoy a free day for your own explorations of Buenos Aires. At 6pm tonight, a meeting will take place in your hotel to welcome any new travellers joining you for the next part of your adventure. After the meeting, learn what local life looks like in Buenos Aires and head to the home of a porteno (inhabitant of Buenos Aires) for a traditional Asado feast. Chat to your friendly host about all things Argentina while enjoying a fantastic spread of barbecued meats, provoleta cheese and plenty of local wine. If you’ve been swept up in the frenetic rhythm of Buenos Aires, perhaps keep the evening going with a post-dinner tango show.

Included Activities:
-Complimentary Arrival Transfer
-Buenos Aires - Welcome Dinner

Optional Activities:
-Buenos Aires - Tango show ticket prices from
-Buenos Aires - Polo day
-Buenos Aires - Football game (subject to availability) from

Day 19: Buenos Aires

Location: Buenos Aires

Accommodation: Design Suites Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

This morning you’ll discover Buenos Aires’s history, cultural influences and iconic sites during a city tour with a local guide. First, you'll head to a traditional urban house and enjoy an exclusive tango performance by two professional dancers who have been working together for more than 15 years. The dancers are passionate about preserving and sharing the art of tango, and the performance will be followed by a beginner’s class, so you can be a part of Argentina’s cultural heritage, too. Learn about the style and history of the dance and pick up a few moves to take home. Your next stop is the Plaza de Mayo to see the original town hall, as well as the presidential palace known as the Pink House. Walk around La Boca and its Caminito district. Head to the Recoleta Cemetery – a labyrinth of ornate mausoleums, stopping at the grave of Eva Peron. Leave the cemetery and see the Floralis Generica – a huge metal flower made by Argentinean architect Eduardo Catalano. The rest of the evening is free.

Included Activities:
-Buenos Aires - Tango demonstration by professional dancers
-Buenos Aires - Tango lesson
-Buenos Aires - City tour

Day 20: Iguazu Falls - Brazilian Side

Location: Iguazu Falls - Brazilian side

Accommodation: JL Hotel by Bourbon or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, transfer to the airport and board a flight to Puerto Iguazu in Argentina. You’ll spend the next two days exploring Iguazu Falls in depth, seeing them from both the Argentinian and Brazilian side. While you’re flying into Argentina, today will be spent exploring the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls. At over 2 km in length, and made up of 275 waterfalls in total, Iguazu is higher than Niagara Falls and wider than Victoria Falls! The Brazilian side of the falls offers unforgettable panoramic views, which you’ll get to spend time taking in today. For an eagle-eye view of the falls, you can also opt to take on an optional helicopter flight.

Included Activities:
-Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Brazilian side of the falls

Optional Activities:
-Iguazu Falls - Bird Park Entrance
-Iguazu Falls - Helicopter ride (min 3 people)

Day 21: Iguazu Falls - Argentinian Side

Location: Iguazu Falls - Argentinian side

Accommodation: JL Hotel by Bourbon or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

Rise and shine for an early departure to the Argentinian side of the falls, where you will be able to get up close to this incredible feat of nature. There is a system of boardwalks on the Argentinian side of the falls that allow you to access some incredible viewing points, or you could choose to take an optional zodiac ride beneath the cascades for a different perspective. This afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a Guarani community – one of the few remaining original inhabitants of the region. Meet with a member of the community to learn about the native tools used for daily activities. Your host will show you around the community and provide insight on the Guarani way of life while explaining how they have preserved their traditions on the edge of one of the world’s most popular attractions. Return to your hotel for a leisurely evening.

Included Activities:
-Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Argentinian side of the falls
-Iguazu Falls - Guarani community visit

Optional Activities:
-Iguazu Falls - Zodiac ride up to the falls

Day 22: Rio De Janeiro

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Accommodation: Novotel Rio de Janeiro Leme (Feature Stay) or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

Take an included flight from Foz do Iguacu to Rio de Janeiro and when you have settled into your Feature Stay hotel a stone’s throw from the beach, join your leader on an orientation walk to get a feel for this lively city and learn a little about its layered history. The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. You might like to head down to the famous white sands of Copacabana and Ipanema beaches for a snapshot of local life. If you’d like to listen to some live music, head to Lapa and join the locals for some dancing.

Included Activities:
-Rio de Janeiro - Leader-led Orientation Walk

Day 23: Rio De Janeiro

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Accommodation: Novotel Rio de Janeiro Leme (Feature Stay) or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Today, you’ll get to know the sights and sounds of Rio during a full-day tour with your leader. Visit Corcovado Mountain for expansive views over the city from the base of the Christ the Redeemer statue – one of the Seven Wonders of the World! Next, head to Santa Teresa to see the architecture, restaurants and art galleries. Continue to the famous Selaron Steps to see Chilean artist Jorge Selaron’s famous artwork. Give your feet a break during a lunch stop in a restored home dating to 1907. Finally, visit the iconic Sugarloaf
Included Activities:
-Rio de Janeiro - Christ the Redeemer
-Rio de Janeiro - City tour
-Rio de Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain

Day 24: Rio De Janeiro

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Meals Included: breaksfast

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to extend your stay in Rio de Janeiro, please speak to your booking agent about arranging additional accommodation in advance.

Optional Activities:
-Rio de Janeiro - Total Rio Bike Tour: Beaches, Bays & Carioca Sunset Urban Adventure
-Rio de Janeiro - Football Game (schedule dependent) from
-Rio de Janeiro - Carnival rehearsal (June to Carnival only) from
-Rio de Janeiro - Samba show from

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Comfortable hotel (19 nights), Feature Stay (4 nights)

  • Lima - Downtown walking tour

  • Lima - Alameda Chabuca Granda tour and tastings

  • Lima - San Francisco Monastery and the Catacombs

  • Lima - Welcome Dinner

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer

  • Amazon Jungle - Night boat tour

  • Amazon Jungle - Oxbow Lake

  • Amazon Jungle - Night jungle walk

  • Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk

  • Cusco - Coricancha Temple (entrance fee)

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Transport

Plane , Train , Private vehicle , Boat , Bicycle

Accommodation

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room?on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip?and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.3. This trip includes domestic and international flights as indicated on the trip map. The flights from Lima through to Santiago have a luggage allowance of 23kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on. The flights from Mendoza through to Rio de Janeiro have a luggage allowance of 15kg for check in luggage and 5kg for carry on.4. This trip starts at 2pm on Day 1 in Lima. This allows time after the joining meeting to explore the city with your leader.5. Full name exactly as per passport is required at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on the passport), for activity and transport bookings. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.6. This trip includes two visits to Machu Picchu, however you may choose to book the 1-day Inca Trail hike on Day 7 (additional surcharge required). This optional activity is subject to permit availability. Please contact your booking agent if you would like to book this activity. Please refer to Day 7 of the itinerary for details of the hike. It is possible for passengers who have taken the train to join passengers who have done the Inca Trail on the 2nd visit of Machu Picchu, by repeating the guided tour. If you are interested in this option, tell your sales agent when you book.7. FLYING PERU TO CHILE – At times at border security you will be asked for the following documentation: itinerary and flight tickets. Please ensure you have a copy of the trip notes and your leader has given you your flight tickets from Lima to Santiago and Santiago to Mendoza.8. This trip is a combination of three trips. Please review the Itinerary for details of when your fellow travellers and leader will change.

Mode of Transport

Plane , Train , Private vehicle , Boat , Bicycle

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    Due to the high altitude of the places we visit some people can suffer altitude sickness, regardless of age, gender or fitness. It even happened to Sir Edmund Hillary! Please see the 'Medical and health information' section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.

    Visitors are not permitted to explore Machu Picchu without a Machu Picchu guide (not our trip leaders) and must follow set routes within the site. This trip includes two guided visits of Machu Picchu and each visit is approximately 1.5 - 2 hours long. Your leader will provide more information to ensure you get the most out of your visits to this incredible site.

    During the colder months, usually between April and October, the border crossing between Chile and Argentina may be closed due to snowfalls. In that event, your emergency funds may be needed to purchase a flight between Santiago and Mendoza. Please see the 'Money matters' section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.

    According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a pre-determined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction only, and once the guided visit commences exiting and re-entering the site is not permitted. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted. Please refer to the itinerary for details.

    Travellers who choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), will not follow the same routes within Machu Picchu. This means that you may not be able to have photos together, overlooking Machu Picchu. This applies to travellers on the same booking or separate bookings. It is possible for passengers who have taken the train to join passengers who have done the Inca Trail on the 2nd visit of Machu Picchu, by repeating the guided tour. If you are interested in this option, you must tell your sales agent when you book.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

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Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

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Saturday - Monday

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$17030

Saturday - Monday

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Sunday - Tuesday

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$17680

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$17680

Saturday - Monday

May 23, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026
$17680

Saturday - Monday

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Friday - Sunday

Jul 03, 2026 - Jul 26, 2026
$17030

Sunday - Tuesday

Jul 12, 2026 - Aug 04, 2026
$17030

Saturday - Monday

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Aug 29, 2026 - Sep 21, 2026
$17680

Saturday - Monday

Sep 12, 2026 - Oct 05, 2026
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Saturday - Monday

Sep 19, 2026 - Oct 12, 2026
$17680

Saturday - Monday

Oct 03, 2026 - Oct 26, 2026
$17680

Saturday - Monday

Oct 10, 2026 - Nov 02, 2026
$17030

Saturday - Monday

Oct 17, 2026 - Nov 09, 2026
$17030

Saturday - Monday

Oct 24, 2026 - Nov 16, 2026
$16375

Saturday - Monday

Nov 07, 2026 - Nov 30, 2026
$16375

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Dec 05, 2026 - Dec 28, 2026
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Prices last published on 24-Dec-2024

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    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

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    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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